How to Prepare for Your Engagement Shoot: Tips for Choosing Locations, Outfits, and Props to get the Best Engagement Photos Ever

Congratulations on your engagement! This is such an exciting time, and capturing the joy and anticipation of your upcoming wedding with an engagement photo shoot is a wonderful way to commemorate this special moment. As a professional wedding photographer, I’ve worked with countless couples to create stunning, lasting memories. In this guide to prepare for your engagement shoot, I’ll share tips on choosing the perfect location, selecting outfits that look amazing on camera, incorporating meaningful props, and feeling comfortable and natural in front of the camera. Let’s dive in!

Prepare for Your Engagement Shoot Part 1 – Choosing the Perfect Location

Selecting the right location is crucial for setting the tone and style of your engagement photos. Here are some key factors to consider:

1. Personal Significance

A location that holds personal significance for both of you will add a unique emotional depth to your photos. Think about places that have played a role in your relationship. It could be where you had your first date, where the proposal happened, or a spot you both love visiting. These locations will not only provide a meaningful backdrop but also help you feel more relaxed and connected during the shoot.

2. Scenic Beauty

Choose locations that offer beautiful and visually appealing backdrops. Parks, gardens, beaches, and urban landscapes can all provide stunning settings. Look for places with interesting features like water elements, architectural structures, or lush greenery. The natural beauty of the location can significantly enhance the overall aesthetic of your photos.

3. Variety of Backdrops

A location that offers a variety of backdrops will give you more options for diverse and dynamic photos. For instance, a city park might have open fields, wooded areas, and architectural elements like bridges or gazebos. This variety allows you to capture different looks and styles in one session, making your photos more versatile and engaging.

4. Accessibility and Convenience

Ensure the location is easily accessible and convenient for both you and your photographer. Consider travel time, parking availability, and whether any permits or fees are required for shooting there. The goal is to minimize stress and logistical issues, so you can focus on enjoying the photo shoot.

5. Lighting Conditions

Good lighting is essential for high-quality photos. Natural light is often the best, so consider the time of day when scheduling your shoot. Early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) typically provides soft, flattering light that enhances the overall look of your photos. If shooting indoors or in a shaded area, make sure there’s ample light to avoid dark or grainy images.

Popular Engagement Photo Shoot Locations

• Beaches: Perfect for couples who love the ocean and want a relaxed, airy vibe.
• Urban Settings: Great for modern, edgy photos with interesting architectural elements.
• Parks and Gardens: Ideal for capturing natural beauty with lush greenery and flowers.
• Historic Sites: Provide a timeless and elegant backdrop with rich textures and history.
• Your Home: For an intimate, cozy feel that’s unique to you.

Prepare for Your Engagement Shoot Part 2 – Selecting Outfits for Your Engagement Photo Shoot

Your outfits play a significant role in how your photos turn out. Here are some tips to help you select the perfect outfits:

1. Coordinate, Don’t Match

Instead of matching outfits, aim to coordinate your clothing with complementary colors and styles. Choose a color palette that works well together but isn’t too identical. Soft, neutral colors and pastels often photograph beautifully, but don’t be afraid to add a pop of color that reflects your personality.

2. Consider the Location

Your outfits should complement the location and setting of your photo shoot. For instance, if you’re shooting at the beach, light, airy clothing in soft colors can create a relaxed, romantic vibe. In an urban setting, you might opt for more structured, fashion-forward outfits. Let the location guide your clothing choices to create a cohesive look.

3. Dress for the Season

Take the season into account when choosing your outfits. Light fabrics and flowy dresses work well for spring and summer, while cozy sweaters and layered clothing are great for fall and winter. Ensure you’re comfortable and appropriate for the weather conditions during your shoot.

4. Classic and Timeless

Choose outfits that have a classic and timeless appeal. Avoid overly trendy clothing that may look dated in a few years. You want your engagement photos to remain stylish and relevant for years to come. Think about pieces that you’ll still love when you look back at your photos in the future.

5. Comfort is Key

Comfort is crucial for a successful photo shoot. Wear clothing that fits well and makes you feel confident. Avoid anything too tight or restrictive, as you want to be able to move naturally and comfortably. When you’re comfortable, it will show in your photos, resulting in more genuine and relaxed expressions.

6. Details Matter

Pay attention to the details, such as accessories and footwear. Accessories can add interest and personality to your outfits, but avoid anything too flashy or distracting. Make sure your shoes are not only stylish but also comfortable, especially if you’ll be walking or standing for extended periods.

7. Bring Multiple Outfits

If possible, bring a couple of outfit options to your shoot. This allows you to change up your look and adds variety to your photos. Discuss with your photographer how much time and flexibility you have for outfit changes. Having different looks can make your photo album more dynamic and interesting.

Outfit Ideas

• Casual Look: Jeans and a nice top, sundresses, or casual shirts.
• Formal Look: Dresses, suits, or elegant outfits that add a touch of sophistication.
• Seasonal Look: Cozy sweaters and boots for fall, light dresses and sandals for summer.
• Themed Look: Outfits that reflect a shared interest or hobby, such as vintage attire or sports jerseys.

Prepare for Your Engagement Shoot Part 3 – Incorporating Meaningful Props

Props can add a fun and personal touch to your engagement photos. Here are some ideas for incorporating meaningful props:

1. Personal Items

Bring items that are significant to your relationship, such as love letters, a favorite book, or a memento from a memorable trip. These personal touches can add depth and meaning to your photos. They also provide a great way to tell your love story visually.

2. Seasonal Props

Incorporate seasonal props that reflect the time of year. For example, in the fall, you might use pumpkins, cozy blankets, or leaves, while in the winter, you could bring along mugs of hot cocoa, scarves, or festive holiday decorations. Seasonal props can add a unique and timely element to your photos.

3. Hobbies and Interests

Showcase your shared hobbies and interests by incorporating related props. If you both love music, bring a guitar or musical instrument. If you’re avid hikers, bring along your hiking gear. These props can highlight your personalities and what you enjoy doing together, making your photos more unique and personal.

4. Save-the-Date Signs

Save-the-date signs or banners can be a fun and practical prop for your engagement shoot. They add a personalized touch and can be used later for your wedding invitations or announcements. Get creative with the design to reflect your wedding theme or personal style.

5. Pets

If you have pets, consider including them in your photos. Pets are part of your family, and their presence can add warmth and personality to your pictures. Just make sure to bring along a friend or family member to help manage them during the shoot. This ensures your furry friend is comfortable and safe while you focus on capturing beautiful moments.

Prop Ideas

• Personal Items: Love letters, books, mementos.
• Seasonal Props: Pumpkins, blankets, hot cocoa mugs.
• Hobby-Related: Musical instruments, sports equipment, hiking gear.
• Save-the-Date: Signs, banners.
• Pets: Dogs, cats, or any beloved pets.

Prepare for Your Engagement Shoot Part 4 (and the most important part) Feeling Comfortable and Natural in Front of the Camera

One of the biggest challenges for many couples is feeling comfortable and natural in front of the camera.

As a wedding photographer, I always tell my couples that in order to have photos you love, you need to LOVE taking them.  Why?  It’s really simple, we all have photos that are good photos of us, but we don’t love them, because we didn’t love something about when we took them.  Even if the photos are great, if your photographer was aloof or an asshole, you won’t love the pics, and thus you won’t use them.  It’s about the EXPERIENCE of taking the photo – how you felt while you’re taking them will translate into photos you’ll love – and so helping you feel natural while having fun is essential to taking great photos that you’ll also love.  Here are some tips to help you relax and enjoy your engagement photo shoot:

1. Get to Know Your Photographer

Building a rapport with your photographer can make a huge difference in how comfortable you feel during your shoot. Schedule a consultation or a pre-shoot meeting to get to know each other and discuss your vision and expectations. The more comfortable you are with your photographer, the more at ease you’ll feel during the shoot.

2. Practice Posing

Actually, don’t.  Your photographer should own this – posing should be 100% on your photographer, the way they direct you, the way they show you the images on camera so you know how they’re turning out.  Ask your photographer for any advice before starting, but if you’re not liking the way you look in poses, that’s 100% your photographer and you should possibly get a different photographer that better suits your style for your wedding.

3. Focus on Each Other

Instead of worrying about the camera, focus on your partner and the connection you share. Laugh, talk, and interact with each other as you normally would. Genuine emotions and interactions make for the best photos. When you’re focused on each other, the camera becomes less intimidating.  I’m a huge believer that your photos should have connection, love, and personality.  incorporating this into your images is essential to capture the ‘feel’ of each couple.

4. Take Breaks

If you start to feel overwhelmed or self-conscious, take a short break. Use this time to relax, chat with your photographer, and regroup. A few minutes of downtime can help you reset and feel more comfortable. Don’t hesitate to communicate with your photographer if you need a moment to catch your breath.

5. Be Yourself

Remember that your engagement photos should reflect your unique personalities and relationship. Don’t feel pressured to act or pose in a way that doesn’t feel authentic to you. Embrace your quirks and let your true selves shine through. Authenticity is key to capturing the essence of your relationship.

6. Use Movement

Incorporating movement into your photos can help you feel more relaxed and natural. Walk hand-in-hand, dance, twirl, or playfully interact with each other. Movement adds a dynamic element to your photos and captures genuine moments. It can also help ease any stiffness or awkwardness you might feel.

7. Trust Your Photographer

Trust your photographer’s expertise and guidance. They know how to position you for the best angles and lighting, and they’ll help you look your best. Follow their instructions and have confidence in their ability to capture beautiful moments. Remember, they are there to make you look and feel amazing.

8. Bring a Positive Attitude

A positive attitude can make a big difference in how you feel and look in your photos. Approach the shoot with enthusiasm and an open mind. Remember, this is a fun and exciting experience meant to celebrate your love and engagement. Enjoy the process and let your happiness shine through.

Tips for Relaxing During the Shoot

• Deep Breaths: Take deep breaths to calm your nerves.
• Music: Play your favorite music to set a fun and relaxed mood.
• Comfortable Poses: Start with simple, comfortable poses to ease into the session.
• Communicate: Don’t hesitate to communicate with your photographer about any concerns or ideas.

Conclusion

As we’ve explained, you can prepare for your engagement shoot with thoughtful planning and consideration and collaboration with your photographer.  It should absolutely not be stressful. By choosing a meaningful location, selecting outfits that complement each other and the setting, incorporating personal and fun props, and focusing on feeling comfortable and natural, you can ensure a successful and enjoyable photo shoot.

Your engagement photos are a celebration of your love and the journey you’re embarking on together. Embrace the experience, enjoy the moments, and trust in your photographer to capture the essence of your relationship. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well-prepared to create beautiful, lasting memories that you’ll cherish for years to come.

Remember, the goal is to capture the love and connection you share as a couple. Whether you’re posing in a picturesque park, a bustling urban setting, or the comfort of your home, the most important thing is to be yourselves and enjoy the experience. Happy shooting, and congratulations once again on your engagement!

 

If you’re looking for more tips to prepare for your engagement shoot and ideas for your photos, please shoot us an email – info@clanegessel.com or fill out this contact form and we’ll reach out.

 

If you’d like to see more photos, you can view some on our photos page or see our films on our films page.