From Philly’s Love Me Do Photography: 4 Tips for How to Get the Most Out of Your Engagement Session

Photo by Love Me Do Photography

We’ve been fans of the talented ladies over at Love Me Do Photography for quite a few years now, and have very much enjoyed both featuring their work in the Real Wedding section of the magazine, in our Picture of the Week posts, and gazing at their pretty blog when in need of a little inspiration (or, you know, procrastination that just also happens to be super pretty and work-related).

This week, Carina and Amanda and their team posted what we found to be a super helpful guide to getting the most out of your engagement shoot, and so we’re sharing their advice here. It seems to us that often, couples sign on for engagement sessions either because their moms want the photos, or it simply comes with the package they’ve purchased from their wedding photographer … but it really can be a great way for the two of you to get to know your photographer before he or she is connected to your hip for ten hours on your wedding day—and to loosen up in front of the camera! Most of us aren’t used to having a lens trained on us for so long, and an engagement shoot can break that ice.

So, before you plan yours, take a look at these tips. We have a feeling you’ll end up loving your engagement photos as much as the ones from your wedding day.

Why have an engagement shoot?

An engagement shoot is a wonderful way for us to get to know you a little better and gives you the chance to see how we work.  It takes a little pressure off of the day-of wedding portraits.  This way we can capture the best images of you being you.   We’ve prepared this post to help you look your absolute best for your session!

Engagement photos can be used for a number of things. They are great for Save-the-dates and wedding websites. We also can provide you with a guest-book for your wedding that guests can sign, made with images from your engagement shoot.  One of our favorite places for save-the-dates and invitations is Paperless Post, where you can make your own custom cards with really great design elements!  Definitely check out their Invitations page if you are looking for a good source for do-it-yourself invites.

What to wear We want you to wear clothing that really showcases your personality.  Keep it simple and wear an outfit that feels like you.  We encourage couples to bring at least two changes of clothing.  First something a little more casual that makes you feel comfortably you, secondly something that is a little more formal, such as something you might wear out on a nice evening out.  This way, you have a variety in your photos.  It is always a good idea to have your clothes prepared (cleaned, pressed, hung up) ahead of time.

Wear clothes that you don’t mind sitting on the ground in.  Bring some nice dress shoes but also some walking shoes for in between.

Ladies: You don’t need to have your makeup professionally done unless you are planning to.  However, it might be a good idea to schedule your hair and makeup trial on the day of your shoot.  Be sure to bring some along for any minor touch ups that may be necessary.

Photo by Love Me Do Photography

Locations We love a location that really tells us a bit about your relationship.  Consider the place where you met, where on your first date, where you got engaged, places you like to visit as a couple, things you like to do together, etc.

To make the most of the time we have to photograph you, it’s best to stick to locations that are nearby each other or in walking distance.  You don’t want to spend the majority of the time driving in traffic or looking for a parking spot.

It’s also nice to have a little bit of variety in backgrounds.  Consider a nice park, but also a café you like to visit or a neighborhood bar that has your favorite drink.

Time of day and weather We prefer to shoot just before sunset.  A good start time is about 2 hours before sunset.  That way we will have plenty of time for photos, and we can make use of the nice golden light.

A great thing about engagement shoots is that they can be rescheduled in the case of bad weather.  But that doesn’t always have to stop you.  Consider running around with your fiancé under umbrellas, kissing in the rain or snow. Atmospheric elements like rain or snow can add to the style to the photographs.  We are always prepared to work in any kind of weather situation and climate.

Most importantly The most important rule about your engagement shoot is to have fun!  We want to make sure you are relaxed and enjoying yourselves together.  Don’t be afraid to really or mushy in front of the camera.  Be sure to enjoy the moment.

This post was republished with permission from Love Me Do Photography. Follow the ladies along on Instagram at @lovemedophoto and on Facebook. 

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