Although the real icing on your wedding cake, so to speak, will be the photos taken on the actual date of your nuptials, many couples also elect to hire a professional photographer to snap their engagement photos. These may be used on “save the date” mailers, or if you’re like some modern couples, you might use them on your wedding website. Perhaps you just want something concrete (aside from the ring) to commemorate the happiest days of your lives together. Regardless of your reasons for wanting to take a few snapshots, however, you’ll want to make sure that you get the most out of your photo session and end up with some beautiful pics to send your friends and family. Here are just a few tips that should help to ensure a successful engagement photography session.
Shop around. Like any consumer purchase, it’s in your best interest to spend some time comparison shopping before you select a photographer. Many professionals have websites that offer galleries of their work so that you can get an idea of their style.
Do you prefer to pose in a studio or would you rather have candid photos at home? Are you interested in natural lighting or artificial? When you start to look at photo galleries online, you’ll get an idea of different styles and you can select the one you find most appealing. You can also take this opportunity to look at packages and pricing or call for quotes if none are listed online.
Have locations in mind. Most engagement photo sessions entail several changes of scenery. In some cases, a photo studio will have several setups at their location, both indoor and outdoor, for you to choose from. But you may have a special location in mind, such as a park you like to frequent, the restaurant where you had your first date, the proposal site, or even your own home. You’ll need to talk to your photographer ahead of time to collaborate and see if off-site photos are an option.
Bring costume changes. Since you will be taking a variety of photos, it behooves you to bring several outfits so that you can change by location, or at least have more options to choose from once the session is complete.
Get gorgeous. In preparation for your photo session, you naturally want to look your best. So, head to the spa and/or salon for facials, cuts, and color (as needed) about a week before your shoot. This will ensure clear skin and just enough hair growth so that your ‘do doesn’t look freshly clipped. Try out makeup and hairstyle options beforehand to select the look you like best.
Listen to your photographer. Whether you head to a Sears photo studio or you engage the services of an experienced professional at a studio like Amy Green Photography, it’s important to keep in mind that your photographer has done this before. You probably have some preferences when it comes to your engagement photos, but you should let your photographer do what he/she does best. And when you get suggestions for locations, poses, and so on, you should at least take them into consideration. If you’re shelling out the dough for a pro, you might as well get what you pay for.