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Tips for Beautiful Engagement Photos

7 Tips for Beautiful Engagement Photos

As a wedding photographer, engagement portraits are a huge part of my business. Every year, I work with approximately 35-40 different couples for their engagement sessions. It’s such an exciting period of time for the couple as they are getting ready to walk down the aisle. All of my couples have a blast during their shoots. And why wouldn’t they? They get to dress up, visit a great location, and have fun just smiling and being themselves for an hour or two.

While some are naturals, most of us need a little help to prepare and feel comfortable in front of the camera. My advice: ask your photographer for tips! I’m always happy to give suggestions to my couples when it comes to wardrobe, locations, details and scheduling. Often times, the more preparation you put into it, the more you get out of your photos. Here are a few suggestions that I pass along to my engagement session clients. I’ll be answering any and all of your questions about engagement sessions, so please leave a comment on the blog!

Tips for Beautiful Engagement Photos by Artistrie Co.

 

Light
Perfect lighting is key to any beautiful portrait. As a natural light photographer, I plan my sessions around the optimal light, which takes place at either sunrise or a few hours before sunset. The sunlight during these portions of the day is very soft, romantic and perfect for engagement photos. If you are considering an indoor location for photos, look for places with plenty of window light pouring into the space.

Location
The setting of your photo session sets the tone for your style or theme. What scenery reflects your personalities? What story would you love to tell in your photographs? There are beautiful places everywhere, but having a location that really tells us who you are can take it to the next level.

Wardrobe
The best part about this experience is having the opportunity to dress up! I always encourage my couples to have fun with their outfits for their session. For variety purposes, I recommend to bring two different looks. Your clothes should reflect your styles and make you feel beautiful.

Make-Up & Hair
Many of my brides chose to get their hair and make-up professionally done. This is always an awesome idea and can double as a trial for the big day. Make-up artists will know how to highlight your features for the camera and will make your skin look flawless. You’ll feel great during the session!

Details
Special details and props are always welcome and can be a great way to make your session unique and personal. If you have a creative concept, chat it over with your photographer ahead of time so they arrive to the session prepared with ideas.

Tips for Beautiful Engagement Photos by Artistrie Co.

Color
The color and styling of your wardrobe can truly enhance your photographs. When pulling together your outfits, here are a few ideas to keep in mind:

  • First and foremost, consider colors that flatter your skin tone and hair best. What hues make you feel the most beautiful?
  • Keep in mind the location you have selected for your portrait session. Avoid wearing colors that will blend in with your surroundings. You want to pop and be the focal point of your photographs.
  • Your outfits should complement one another, but not match exactly. If one of you is wearing a bolder color, then the other could wear something more neutral to create harmony and balance.
  • Lastly, if you are bringing props to your shoot, be sure to coordinate the colors of these details with your outfits so everything flows together. The above photo works so well not just because of the pose, but because the bride perfectly coordinated her dress with the color of the quilt.

Work with your Wedding Photographer
If possible, try to work with your wedding photographer for your engagement session. Doing so helps to build a relationship with that person before the wedding day. You’ll already have the confidence in your photographer that he or she knows how to make you look great, and you’ll be able to relax, enjoy your day, and be in the moment.

I have a new Engagement Session Guide available for all Artistrie Co. couples. If you’ve already scheduled your session and would like to take a look through these tips plus more, email me and I will send you a copy. Thanks for reading! Feel free to share your own engagement session experience. We’d love to hear it!

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Have a question?

Reach out to Ashley today and let's start planning the perfect photography experience for your wedding, boudoir or portrait session.

Email: ashley@artistrieco.com