Preparing for your session
When it comes to your engagement photos, you want to look your absolute best. It helps us as photographers to capture you and your partner’s natural chemistry. It helps you as a couple be more enthralled with each other in the session. So how do we accomplish that?
“Getting enough sleep the night before is an excellent first step”
Rest and Relaxation
It’s so important that you both are well rested the day of your session. Of course you want to look your best, and getting enough sleep the night before is an excellent first step. I strongly recommend you not try any new beauty regimens prior to your session.
Allow yourself extra time to get ready, eat and travel. I recommend arriving for your session early. You can take the opportunity to enjoy a few moments of relaxation before we begin. Nothing prior to your session should be rushed.
Props
It is not necessary to accessorize with props unless we’ve already discussed it. As you know, I specialize in creating timeless portraits. I find keeping themes simple allows for real moments, expressions and interactions.
Your Belongings
I recommend having your hands free throughout the session, so I’d prefer not to have you carry extra clothing, a purse, drinks, or anything else. You can leave these items at our starting location, most likely in your vehicle. We can come back half-way through the session to change and freshen up.
Throughout your session, you’re encouraged to embrace whatever mood you’re feeling. Feel free to relax, laugh and have a good time. Portraits are best when you are yourself. It’s important to remember - just because there is a camera pointing at you, you don’t have to look at the camera. Sometimes the most meaningful images are when you’re enjoying a moment instead of posing.
Here are a few other prep details and suggestions:
Simplicity is always best, so when in doubt keep in mind that “less is more.”
Avoid patterns, stripes and logos, as they can be distracting
Moisturize! Dull and ashy skin is something we'd like to avoid
Neutral colors such as beige, white, black, tan and grey often photograph the best. They complement your skin tones and don’t conflict with common background elements.
Wear clothing that fits properly. A proper fit that allows you to move and feel comfortable will help you look more confident in your portrait.
Always dress with the full length in mind. Include shoes and socks in your wardrobe consideration. Shoe styles should be simple and not distracting.
If you normally wear glasses, you should wear them for your session as you want you to look like you usually do. Struggling to see throughout the session would not be a good time.
Wear minimal jewelry for your portrait. Jewelry that you wear on a daily basis is fine, but I prefer not to have you accessorize and add extra jewelry that you usually wouldn’t wear. If anything, it should be kept simple, and its color should be neutral and non-distracting.
I recommend against going for a professional tan or tanning outdoors before your session. A fresh tan may look good in person but the camera is more sensitive to skin tones, and your natural color is always more flattering in photographs.
For hair and makeup, keep it natural as opposed to going too over-the-top. You may be more comfortable with having your hair and make-up professionally done, or you may be more comfortable doing it yourself. Whichever you choose, it is crucial that you feel beautiful and confident.
EVERYONE should get their nails done. If you want ring photos, filed, neat and clean fingernails are a must.
Remember that I am available to consult with you on your wardrobe. Do not hesitate to reach out to me!
