Asapphire Photo

Now that you are Engaged, where do you start? You have a wedding to plan, venues to pick, cakes to taste and the list goes on. Although this post will mainly address the engagement photo shoot, the tips and advice are also applicable for a couple’s and bridal session.

Engagement photo shoots are becoming a modern wedding tradition. Most Wedding photographers are offering these sessions as part of a package or Ala-Carte.  This is a good place to start when you are choosing your photographer, find out if this session is part of a package that suits your budget.

An engagement shoot is a way for a couple to get to know their photographer before the wedding day. It is also a time for the photographer to get to know you and find which poses work best for you as well as which ones you like and dislike.

You have now chosen your wedding photographer and would like to schedule your session…what next?

To start planning for your session, think on how you plan to use your photos, what kind of a session do you want, formal, candid, casual or a theme. Ask your photographer the production times so that if you need the photos for newspaper announcement, or you are getting some other mementos created,  you have them done in plenty of time so as to not miss deadlines.

Here are some tips and advise to give you a jump-start in planning and getting ready for your engagement session:

• Themes: Although this is optional it will be a dis-service if I fail to mention it. A theme sets the mood in regards to clothing, location choice, props, hair and make up. Themes, can be based on interests, color, hobbies, Love and an era.

• Location: Choose a place that means something to you and or adds something visually interesting to your shoot. Think of first date, where you got engaged, where you spend alot of time together as a couple. The options are endless. Ask your photographer for suggestions.

•  Props: This is another optional detail. Do you have a favorite hobby? Is there an activity you both love? Why not incorporate it in your shoot? Bring props along to create a one of a kind session.

Ready, Set, Go…here are the final tips once you have chosen the theme, location, and date of the shoot.

Think Like a model: Make sure nails, toes, hair, clothes, make-up and accesories look great.

• Groom: Get a haircut atleast 4 days before the day of the shoot, Shave right before heading out for the shoot location. Get a manicure…ok, just have clean, clipped and filed nails.

• Bride: Have manicured and pedicured nails and toes, or polished nails. Get the hair done and pay extra attention to the roots. Choose  make-up that best suits you. Remember to wear your engagement ring and to apply lotion to your hands.

• Clothing: Be Comfortable. Wear clothes that are flattering, comfortable and make you feel cute. Ensure clothes are clean and wrinkle free.

Co-ordinate your clothing, this doesn’t mean matchy-match. Avoid busy fabrics and patterns that will draw attention away from your faces.

• Get a good night sleep, to avoid eye bugs.
• Stay hydrated.

Remember to Have FUN!!! The best engagement photos capture who you are and your love, please be yourself.