Engagement photos are not only a great opportunity to give your wedding photographer a test-drive, but the images can be used for the engagement announcement in your local newspaper, your save-the-dates and wedding invitations, and in your wedding day décor. Plus, it gives you an excuse to tap into your inner model with your soon-to-be-spouse. Read on for the basics to have a successful shoot:
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Save the Date: Try to get your premarital mug shots taken at least six months before the wedding date so that you have the option to use them for your wedding website, save-the-dates, etc. |
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Be Inspired: Engagement shoots should evoke you as a couple, whether you’re quirky, Ivy Leaguers or athletes. Browse the web for inspiring ideas but ultimately base your shoot on your personal relationship. |
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Savvy Style: While you don’t want to overthink the outfits, you do want to ensure they translate well on film. Stick to streamlined silhouettes in solid colors or subtle prints that flatter and complement your fiancé/e’s outfit. Anything overly busy will take away from the chemistry being shown. Many couples opt to have several outfit changes, but we recommend doing no more than three – you don’t want to waste precious photography time changing into a new suit! |
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Splurge for Pro: Though you want to look natural, splurging for professional beautification can ensure that your skin looks flawless on film. Test out a salon that you’re thinking of using for the big day to see how well you work with the makeup artist and/or hairstylist. Not only will you not run the risk of having a bad hair day, but your confidence will be boosted knowing you look fabulous. |
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Location, Location, Location: Think outside the box for the location, somewhere that is either very meaningful to the two of you or has especially unique elements, like a graffiti-covered wall. Aim for three locations to give yourselves plenty of options when choosing the final prints. |
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Let the Photographer Be Your Guide: The most important aspect of a couple-photographer relationship is trust. Let your guard down and don’t be afraid to voice your own suggestions. If you work together, the pictures will come out perfect. |
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Comfort Level: You’ll likely be doing a lot of walking, so take a pair of comfortable shoes to wear in between shots and sets. Your feet will thank you. |
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Time It Right: Aim for early morning, right after the sun rises, or early evening, right before sunset, when the light is ultra-flattering. |
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Play With Props: Whether it’s a parasol, vintage suitcases or your pet, props up the interest for any photo shoot. |
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Move Around: One of the first rules of modeling, keep moving. Photographers snap away constantly so there’s no reason for you to hold the same pose for more than 10 seconds. Even if it’s as simple as a lift of the head, it can have a tremendous effect on how the overall picture looks. Have fun with each other, be playful, kiss! Some of the best engagement photos are the candid ones. |
Photo: Maria Villano Photography
