7 TIPS FOR PLANNING THE PERFECT ENGAGEMENT PHOTOS
Creating a memorable engagement session and capturing your happiest moments can be an exciting experience. From finding the right photographer, to picking the right clothes to selecting the right location, there are several important steps you'll need to take to ensure your engagement photos go off without a hitch. Here are 7 tips to help you plan your dream celebration.
Hi barbie! I’m Emily: your friendly, neighborhood destination wedding photographer and owner of Emily Reedstrom Photography. I’ve been photographing couples for over a decade and I’m here to help you get the iconic wedding and engagement photos you’re dreaming of! I’m based on the East Coast, but I’m in and out of Europe with clients regularly. You can keep up to date on all things ERP on my instagram :)
Make your upcoming engagement photos memorable with this easy-to-follow guide on planning the photo session. Find out all you need to know, from posture dos and don'ts to that perfect backdrop.
Planning the perfect engagement session doesn't have to be stressful! Here are 7 tips to help you plan your dream photo shoot.
Let’s plan your perfect engagement session in these seven easy steps!
STEP ONE: find a photographer: Finding the right engagement photographer for your engagement session can be simple with these easy steps. First, decide what style of photography you gravitate towards. Do you like candid and organic photos? Do you like editorial and formal photos? Second, decide the editing style you like. Do you prefer a dark and moody edit, or a clean and classic timeless edit? Once you’ve narrowed those questions, jump over to instagram or pinterest and use the search feature for “YOUR LOCATION + engagement / wedding photography” OR “engagement photographer + EDITING STYLE” and see who comes up!
Here’s an example of what candid engagement photography looks like:
Here’s an example of what editorial engagement photos looks like:
Capture memories of your special day with these helpful tips for planning your engagement photos. Learn what to wear, where to take them and more!
STEP TWO: Decide on a theme, backdrop or vibe to your engagement session. Choosing the right backdrop or theme for your engagement photos can be one of the most difficult aspects of planning. It should reflect your personality, interests and unique style, in order to create memories that you will cherish for years to come. For example: If you guys have never hiked in your life, don’t bother with mountain engagement photos. Choose a location that is meaningful to you! If you’re having a hard time, talk to your photographer!
Depending on the vibe you want your engagement photos to be, you choose, there are tons of options available! Most outdoor parks are beautiful, a skyline or cityscapes never goes unappreciated in photos, or think about architecture as an option! Make sure to take some time exploring different ideas and discussing it with everyone involved in order to make the best decision.
STEP THREE: Preparation and Planning: Before your engagement photos session, it is essential to plan ahead. Consider and discuss the style of shots you are looking for, look into getting a photography permit if your location requires it, and organize outfits and accessories accordingly. At Emily Reedstrom Photography, I encourage my brides to create a pinterest board of photos they love so I know the exact direction they want to go.
East Coast Engagement photos
STEP FOUR: Sunset vs Sunrise: Being a natural light photographer, the timing for your session isn’t a coincidence. I shoot in the two hours before the sun goes down or the two hours after the sun comes up. This time of day is popularly known as “golden hour” because the sun is lower in the sky creating a soft and glowy effect in the photographs. You are welcome to choose either sunrise or sunset - depending on the location you choose, it might be better to do sunrise (example - Central Park at sunrise is going to be way more maneuverable) or it might be more ideal to do sunset (hello beach sunsets are just a whole vibe!).
Not into engagement photos, but still want to have beautiful couple photos of you and your honey? Slide over to see Maria + Noah’s breathtaking anniversary photoshoot in Amalfi, Italy and see for yourself: you don’t need to be engaged to have professional photos taken!!
STEP FIVE: Location Scouting and Research: Location scouting is one of the most important elements in engagement photo planning. Consider your overall theme, style and atmosphere you’re aiming for, then take the time to evaluate all possible setting options. Once you’ve chosen a spot, research it thoroughly. Make sure you know things like the hours, access points and restrictions (certain venues, parks, and areas can require a photography permit so make sure you’re aware of any additional fees - and if you’re an Emily Reedstrom Photography client, you don’t need to think or worry about that, because I’ve already done the research for you).
PRO TIP: Keep weather conditions and sunsets/sunrises in mind as they can affect both safety and image quality. For example if it’s 100+ degrees in Florida and you’re choosing to shoot at 3PM your skin is going to be flushed and you’re going to be sweaty.
STEP SIX: Prioritizing quality outfits: Outfits and wardrobe are very important in creating memorable engagement photos. Be sure to wear something you feel confident and comfortable in, and something that goes with the vibe of your shoot.
Layer! If you’re wearing a dress, grab an oversized blazer/sweater to wear over it. Layering clothing adds dimension and dimension photographs really well.
Paint your nails and your toes! It’s always the last thing people thing of, but your hands will be in photos, and adding a polish will elevate your photos.
Choose colors that will compliment and bring out the best features for your skin-tone and personality.
The perfect accessory can also elevate an outfit without overdoing it – think timeless pieces like earrings, necklaces, or bracelets.
DON’T FORGET TO CLEAN YOUR ENGAGEMENT RING!
NOTE: If you’re an Emily Reedstrom Photography couple, you’ll be getting a full comprehensive style guide in addition to a styling consultation before your engagement photos.
STEP SEVEN: Props, puppies etc If you want to make your engagement session personal and memorable as possible, let’s plan extra details! You can bring your dog, any props, a picnic, coffees, champagne etc. Feel free to bring anything that can make this engagement session unique to you. Whatever you want in your photos, I’ll do my best to make it happen!
BONUS STEP: Last but not least, it’s okay if you’re feeling nervous. Please know that photographers do not expect you to be models. Our job is to direct you in a way that helps you relax, feel natural, and be your true most comfortable selves in front of my lens. As an Emily Reedstrom Photography couple, you do not need to practice poses, or let the nerves take over, I will guide you every step of our session. If I had a dollar for every time one of my clients said “we’re so awkward in front of the camera,” I’d be a millionaire - just kidding, but not really.
Don’t believe me?! Here are some of my favorite clients and what they had to say about their engagement session experience with Emily Reedstrom Photography:
“We were not nervous per-se, but we did go into the session thinking it would be uncomfortable and awkward to pose. This was not an issue at all! Emily was hilarious and fun throughout the whole thing and had lots of great ideas for poses and things to talk about to get the right shot”
- Rhonda & Bryan
“My husband and I wouldn’t necessarily call ourselves “naturals” in front of the camera - especially when it comes to the more lovey-dovey poses. We were worried we might look a bit awkward. Emily was awesome at helping us feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera. The pictures turned out beautiful!”
- Anna & Nolan
