Your engagement photo shoot should be a reflection of your personality, relationship, and style. It’s a moment to capture and celebrate your unique love story. However, it can also feel overwhelming—choosing the perfect location, the right outfits, and timing the session just right. To ease the process, here’s a detailed guide to help you plan a stress-free and memorable engagement photo session.
Let’s get straight to the point
An engagement photo shoot should reflect your personality and relationship. To plan a successful session, choose a meaningful location, such as a favourite café, nature retreat, or an urban backdrop, and schedule it during golden hour for optimal lighting. When choosing your outfits, pick something that feels like you, keep location-appropriate attire in mind, and avoid overly busy patterns. Consider professional hair and makeup to enhance your look, and make sure your nails are groomed. Engagement shoots help couples get comfortable in front of the camera and provide valuable rapport-building time for photographers. Keep the session simple, focus on authentic emotions, and stay relaxed to capture the best photos.
Where Should We Have the Engagement Photo Shoot?
Choosing the right location for your engagement session is crucial, and it’s not just about geography. The venue should be meaningful to you and your partner. It might be the place where you had your first date, a favourite hiking spot, or somewhere that complements your wedding theme.
Popular Location Ideas:
- Urban settings: If your wedding photos are going to be in nature, consider switching things up with an urban backdrop for your engagement shoot. Think graffiti walls, downtown alleyways, or iconic cityscapes.
- Nature retreats: If you’re both outdoor enthusiasts, natural parks, beaches, or mountain trails can provide a stunning backdrop.
- Personal spots: For a more intimate session, think of places with sentimental value—your favourite café, the beach where you got engaged, or even your own home.
You don’t have to settle for a location that doesn’t resonate with you. Talk to your photographer; they’re usually open to a little travel for the perfect spot. After all, a unique setting can elevate the entire shoot experience.
When Would Be a Good Time for the Engagement Photo Shoot?
The timing of your engagement shoot can impact the mood, lighting, and overall atmosphere of the photos.
Key Considerations:
- Golden hour: The late afternoon or early evening is often referred to as the ‘golden hour’ because of the soft, flattering light.
- Seasons: Your chosen time of year can influence not only the background colours (autumn leaves, spring blossoms) but also your wardrobe. Decide whether you’d prefer a snowy winter shoot or a warm summer sunset.
- Weather: Always have a backup plan in case the weather decides not to cooperate. Some couples love the idea of getting playful in the rain, while others may want to reschedule for a sunny day.
What to Wear During Your Engagement Photo Shoot?
Choosing the right outfit is often one of the most stressful parts of planning an engagement shoot. The key is to feel comfortable and confident while ensuring your outfit aligns with the location and theme of the shoot.
Wardrobe Tips:
- Wear what feels like YOU: Don’t stray too far from your personal style. If you’re usually in casual wear, stick to that vibe, but elevate it slightly.
- Two outfits, two vibes: Most couples bring two outfits—one casual and one formal. This allows for a variety of images.
- Location-appropriate attire: Keep the location in mind when choosing your outfits. High heels may not be ideal for a park or beach shoot, whereas comfortable shoes would be better suited for outdoor sessions.
- Avoid heavy patterns and bright neon colours: These can often look too busy or distracting in photos. Stick to earthy tones, jewel tones, and subtle patterns that don’t clash with each other.
- Layer up: If your shoot is scheduled for late afternoon or evening, remember that temperatures can drop. Layers not only keep you warm but also add depth and texture to your look.
For example, if you’re shooting in the cooler months, a well-fitted coat, boots, and a scarf can look chic while still keeping you cosy.
Get Your Hair and Makeup Done For Your Engagement Photo Shoot
Yes, if possible. Your engagement shoot is a special event, and professional hair and makeup can give you that extra boost of confidence. Many brides use their engagement shoot as an opportunity to trial their wedding makeup.
Hair and Makeup Tips:
- Professional makeup trial: If you plan on hiring a makeup artist for your wedding, book a trial for the day of your engagement shoot. This will give you a sense of how your makeup photographs and give you time to tweak anything before the big day.
- Natural but enhanced: Even if you prefer a natural look, professional makeup can make a big difference in photos. It doesn’t have to be heavy, just enough to highlight your features and ensure you don’t look washed out.
- Hair care: Whether you’re going for loose waves or an updo, a professional hairstylist can ensure your hair holds up throughout the shoot.
Don’t forget about your nails! Since your hands will likely be featured prominently in photos, make sure they’re well-groomed.
Engagement Photo Shoot Session Benefits: For Photographers and Couples
Engagement sessions are more than just another set of photos. They offer multiple benefits for both the couple and the photographer.
For Photographers:
- Build rapport: Engagement sessions are an excellent way for the photographer to get to know the couple before the wedding. You’ll learn what makes them laugh, how they pose naturally, and what angles work best for them.
- Stress-free creativity: Unlike wedding days, engagement shoots are usually more relaxed, allowing the photographer to experiment and explore different creative avenues.
For Couples:
- Comfort in front of the camera: Let’s face it—being in front of the camera can be intimidating. An engagement shoot gives couples the chance to get comfortable with their photographer and the camera.
- Use the photos: Engagement photos can be used for “save the date” cards, wedding decor, or even a guestbook for the wedding.
- Time to enjoy each other: This is a fun, low-pressure time for you and your partner to connect and celebrate your upcoming wedding. Make the most of it!
Tips for Great Engagement Photos
Now that you’ve got the basics down, here are some extra tips to ensure your photos turn out beautifully.
Simple is Best
Simplicity is key. Overcomplicating the session with multiple locations or props can take away from the natural interactions between you and your partner. Stick to one or two key ideas and let the photographer capture your story.
Focus on the Emotion
While the location, outfits, and props all contribute to the photos, the most important thing is the emotion between the two of you. Don’t be afraid to get close, laugh, or even share intimate moments. Authentic emotions make the best photographs.
Stay Relaxed
Try not to worry too much about how you look or if you’re doing things “right.” Let your photographer guide you through the process, and remember, the best photos happen when you’re relaxed and having fun.
Conclusion
Your engagement photo session should be a fun and memorable experience that showcases your love and personality. Whether you’re getting photographed in an urban setting, a scenic park, or a place with deep personal significance, the key is to be yourself and enjoy the moment.
Plan your wardrobe thoughtfully, choose the right time for the perfect lighting, and don’t forget to pamper yourself with professional hair and makeup. Engagement sessions offer a chance for couples and photographers to connect, easing the nerves and preparing everyone for the big day. With a little preparation and a relaxed attitude, you’ll walk away with beautiful photos to cherish for years to come.
Looking for a talented wedding photographer in Melbourne? Vogue Ballroom has an ultimate list of photography experts ready to capture every precious moment of your journey—from engagement to wedding day.
FAQs About Engagement Shoots
Are Engagement Shoots Worth It?
An engagement shoot is a great opportunity to go back to somewhere you love, a place that is important too you both, or that holds strong memories. This maybe where you got engaged, or some where quiet you go to get away from it all. Whatever the place it is a chance to get some beautiful photos of you both there.
What Is the Point of an Engagement Photoshoot?
Typically, engagement photos are built into a wedding photographer’s package. The photographers want that time to get to know you and your significant other; it helps them create more meaningful and personal images.
How Much Should I Spend on Engagement Photos?
Most engagement shoots cost anything from $200-$500 on average for a package that includes one outfit and 1-2 locations. However, the average cost for engagement photos depends on where you live, project details, and your photographer’s popularity.
How Long Is an Engagement Shoot?
This’ll vary depending on your photographer, but most engagement sessions usually last between an hour and an hour and a half. With the couples I work with, I like to start around two hours before sunset (or at sunrise), as this is when the light is best.
Do You Tip Photographer for Engagement Shoot?
Tipping for engagement photos is not necessary. But, we would most likely give a tip if we felt the service being provided was “above-and-beyond.”
