Your Complete Guide to Engagement Photoshoots: benefits, what to wear, & more!
If you’re wondering… why should I do an engagement photoshoot? What’s the best time to take engagement photos? What do I use these engagement photos for? This will help! I answered alllll your questions about engagement photoshoots in this guide: let’s dive right in!
How to plan an engagement shoot: answering ALL your questions!!
Should you have an engagement shoot?
You might wonder “are engagement photos necessary?” and the answer is no…. But yes! Obviously, you can do whatever you want, but I always think you should have an engagement shoot. If you’re my client, an engagement session is included in your package automatically. There are sooo many benefits, it just makes sense to include it!
The Benefits of an Engagement Photoshoot
Why should you do an engagement photoshoot:
- We get to know each other more one-on-one
- Sometimes only one partner communicates with me, but this way I can meet both of you!
- Gives you the chance to feel more comfortable in front of a camera
- Helps me know what poses you guys are comfortable with / look fabulous in
- You can use these photos in a million different ways
- Captures & celebrates this unique season of life: preparing for married life!
- It’s a super fun time!
Honestly, an engagement session benefits BOTH of us!
How to Use Your Engagement Photos
My clients ask me all the time “do you use engagement photos for save the dates?” And my answer is always YES!
Here are just a few ways you can use your engagement photos:
- Prints to decorate your home
- Save the dates
- Wedding invites
- Holiday cards
- Gifts for your parents/family
- Announcements
- Album or scrapbook
- Wedding website
- Thank you cards
- Bridal shower invites
- Bachelorette or bachelor party invites
How to Prep for an Engagement Photoshoot
- Choose a location and date/time
- Choose your outfits
- Look up inspiration photos on blogs, Pinterest, and Instagram
- Talk to me about your different ideas for your session
If you’re planning on doing a hair or makeup trial, I suggest doing it the morning of your engagement photos!! This is a great way to test out your wedding look: see how it holds up all day, how you like it, and if it photographs well.
I know the weather can be a little crazy here in Washington, so we’ll be watching the weather the week leading up to your shoot! On the day of, arrive to the location on time. Bring a change of clothes (always be prepared!) and make sure you drink plenty of water. If you’re nervous, let me know! I’ll help calm your nerves. Honestly, these sessions are always so fun – you’ll be relaxed in no time at all.
I also suggest making your engagement session a date! Spend the day together doing something you love or trying something new. Go out to dinner after our session or grab a drink at your fave restaurant beforehand. Use this time to make memories together and celebrate your relationship!
Choosing a Location for Your Engagement Photoshoot
Ask yourself these two things when deciding the location of your shoot:
- What’s a place we’ve always wanted to explore?
- What’s a place that means a lot to us & our relationship?
Exploring a new place, like one of our gorgeous Washington state parks, is a great way to make your photoshoot personal to you. This allows us to capture a special memory you’re making together! It’s also a perfect excuse to plan a new adventure.
It’s also so meaningful to take pics in a location that’s special to you guys. Whether that’s the location of your first date, where you met, where you got engaged, or where you like to spend time, make it personal to you!!
Related: How to Plan a Unique Outdoor Couples Photoshoot
When Should You Take Your Engagement Photos?
Time of Year
The best time of year really depends on the two of you, your preferences, when your wedding is, and what you want to use your engagement photos for. If you’re sending out save the dates, they should be sent out at least six months before your wedding date. If you want to include engagement photos on your save-the-dates, let’s plan your engagement session for about nine months out so you have plenty of time to design and order the stationery!
Time of Day
A lot of couples ask when is the best time to take engagement photos outside and I always say to aim for golden hour!! This varies throughout the season and depends on your location. If we’re in the mountains, the light will go away sooner. Our session will last up to one hour – when we pick a date we’ll keep the projected sunset time in mind to choose a time!
What to Wear to an Engagement Photoshoot
My number one tip will always be to wear what makes you feel comfortable & confident!! But for more specific tips on picking outfits for your engagement shoot, here ya go.
- Don’t mix & match patterns
If one partner wears a pattern like stripes, dots, floral, or plaid, then the other partner should wear a solid so there’s no clashing!
- Layer up!
Layers are the best for any photoshoot! If you get warm, just shed a scarf or a cardigan. This adds some movement & diversity to your gallery and helps you stay comfortable.
- Consider your colors
Sometimes it helps to choose your colors based on your photoshoot location! If we’re outside in the winter, bold or bright colors will pop against the snow while darker neutrals provide a more subtle vibe.
- Dress up AND dress down!
I LOVE recommending something dressier for part of the session and something casual for the other half. Plan two outfits for both of you to wear!
- Think about the weather
Try to dress for the season so you can be as comfortable as possible. You shouldn’t wear a summer dress for a winter snow session, and you shouldn’t wear boots and a scarf for a session in July.
Read more: What to Wear to Your Engagement Photoshoot
Engagement Photoshoot Poses Inspiration!
Read next: How to Prepare for Marriage During a Busy Engagement Season
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