How to Prepare for an Engagement Session

As a wedding photographer, I view an engagement session as a time where the bride and groom can practice for their big day. With that being said, it is still important to be prepared for such a session.

For starters, it is very important to BE ON TIME!!

If for any reason you do not think you will be able to make it on time, I will most likely not be able to extend your session time but instead, have it end at it's regular time. Reason being that, there are many times where I book multiple sessions in one day and it is only fair for my other appointments that I be on time to meet them. I know, life happens!, so try to prepare for any type of emergency; whether it be a hair malfunction, a fashion emergency, or simply traffic. I know this may seem a bit anal of me but, I want to be able to take my time and prevent making you feel rushed because at the end of the day, I want you and your significant other to have a good experience.

I always encourage my bride and groom to check out my webpage's engagements section so they can see and practice some poses. I find it most helpful when it come to my grooms (yes boys, I'm talking to you). It seems to me, that for the grooms it's a little bit harder to loosen up and really feel comfortable in front of the camera. Don't get me wrong, sometimes my brides are a little shy too so this can also help them! Like I said, start by checking out some pictures and trying to mimic them in front of a mirror. Get comfortable with your smile, your body, and your partner (this last part, I assume won't be hard at all!)

As a rustic photographer I am comfortable taking pictures in any location so don't hesitate looking for new locations to shoot at. I always say, there is no such thing as an "ugly" location. I see beauty everywhere I look. Whether it be an old abandoned building or even a dumpster! I love to travel so if you want to take the photoshoot out of town I'm up for that too! It's always fun to find a location that makes both of you comfortable and also reflects the love you have for one another.

Something else that I truly encourage is the use of props! A couple weeks ago I had the pleasure of doing an engagement session with Lily and Jose and they took it upon themselves to bring a yoga mat and some weights as props because Jose is a personal trainer and they both enjoy working out together. The prop can be anything! Some ideas: a bike, favorite book, magazine, favorite food, a bouquet of flowers, or even your pet! the possibilities are endless and completely up to you.

It's very common for some girls to use the engagement session as a practice run for their hair and makeup. I've observed and noticed that this helps them feel a little bit more glamorous and it boosts their confidence. I am not saying every girl has to do this! By all means, if it's not your style then that's fine but, I do find that a lot of women feel more comfortable the day of their wedding. I'd be more than happy to recommend some MUA's that I've worked with in the past. So if you need their information, just shoot me an email!

In the end, if you want to have the best possible experience, make sure to prepare!