How to look your best at your engagement session!
Couples come in all makes and models, sizes and personalities. Some are shy, while some others love the spotlight. Some naturally fall into photo-worthy poses, while others need more guidance. But, one thing is true, no matter who these lovebirds are, they expect me, the photographer, to capture them at their best and make them feel as relaxed and comfortable as possible. It is proven that at least 40% of brides have regrets with their photography, for not looking their best. And let’s face it, we aren’t all models. Most of us need posing guidance at the moment of getting our picture taken. The engagement session is probably the first time a couple is being photographed professionally with one another.
And that is why my mission is to show the couples how their love looks like from the outside: the way they laugh together, hold hands and interact with each-other.
I took the time and created these series of tips and recommendations to ENSURE you how to look the best at your engagement session. CHECK IT OUT!
1- SET DAY, TIME LOCATION (and SEASON)
Your engagement session should be scheduled anytime before your wedding day. I recommend to schedule your session between 3 and 8 months in advance to avoid stress. As you start planning your session, you’ll start brainstorming ideas about location.
I really like when a couple suggests a location that is special for them or has some sentimental value. I love to plan my sessions around sunset golden hour. I start 2 hours before sunset. Have in mind that some locations are better on weekends, but some others are better to go to during the week. So prepare yourself to adjust your schedule accordingly for the ideal time and location that you choose.
2- REVIEW THE GUIDE LIST FOR STYLE TIPS
I always share a guide of what to wear for your engagement session to see what will make a couple look better in front of the camera. I highly recommend to check this guide in advance to make sure what outfits are the best to buy for your session. Most of my couples find this very helpful; they say that it helps them to realize several points that they wouldn’t have thought of themselves.
3-FULL HAIR & MAKE-UP SCHEDULE APPOINTMENT
Your engagement session is the perfect time to test out your wedding look (or at least to have an idea). You will need to do a hair and makeup trial anyways for your wedding day, so why not using your engagement session as the test trial. Remember, you want to look your best!!!
4- HAIRCUTS FOR MEN
As we all know, Men are more relaxed and have less to prepare for the engagement session, but they should prepare nonetheless. A clean cut, freshly groomed and clean shaved (if desired) for their session will make them look sharp. Depending on your preference, plan ahead to make sure you get a haircut and shave prior to your session.
5-PICK UP A NEW OUTFIT
When you have decided when and where to have your engagement session, it will be time to choose your outfits; I highly recommend to choose new outfits preferably or somewhat new. And as a big recommendation, bring it to your session well protected, such as on a hanger to avoid wrinkles. You need to treat your session as if you were going to a nice cocktail hour at the best roof top lounge in town. Dress to impress!
6- PACK A BAG
For your engagement session you should have a bag of things prepared to bring with. Here is a list of things that should be on it:
Additional outfit (if you are planning more than one)
Flats or flip-flops for walking between photo spots more comfortably.
Make-up touch ups
Bottle of water (for warmer session or remote locations)
Coat or cover-up
Blanket
Money for parking fees (if applicable)
7- PICK A FUN POST-SESSION DATE NIGHT SPOT!!
You are already dressed up, looking your best and have more than one reason to celebrate. So treat yourself. Reserve a table at your favorite spot or try a new place!
8- BE RESTED
No amount of grooming or editing will hide the dark circles under your eyes, and the overall look of exhaustion. Drink plenty of water all week, get enough sleep, and try not to stress too much prior to the session. All of these things translate into your photos, so be mindful of them.
I hope you find this tips useful and help you to clear out some doubts. Let’s stay in touch!
