Engagement Photo Preparation- 10 Tips and Tricks From a Wedding Photographer

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Your engagement session is a great way to celebrate your upcoming wedding. It also gives you an opportunity to get comfortable in front of a camera and work with your wedding photographer before your wedding day. I get a lot of questions about how to prepare for engagement photos so I’ve put together my top 10 list for engaged couples.

1. Select a Meaningful Location

Opt for a spot that holds special meaning for you both, like the place you first met or a beloved park, to add a personal element to your photos. Or pick a location that suits the vibe you’re wanting to showcase in your photos. Whether its an open field at sunset, at my studio or an elevator in a fancy hotel, pick a location that feels right to you.

2. Coordinate Your Outfits

Choose outfits that harmonize without being too identical. Pick colors that showcase your personalities and suit the season. Personally I love seeing brides wear a white outfit to their engagement session.

3. Dress Based on the Vibe You’re Going For

Do you want to go for a formal, high end look? Maybe something more casual with jeans and a cozy sweater? There are many different ways to approach your session. My favorite way to stay inspired is to make a mood board of styles and poses that speak to me. In my opinion if you want to go all out, this is your moment. Wear the big tulle dress with the long train. Wear glam makeup and an elaborate hair style. You can be as casual or as eccentric as you want. Whatever you do, make sure it feels authentic to you.

engagement photos Des Moines Iowa Waterworks Park Cherry blossom trees
engagement photos at a park crab apple trees blooming

4. Choose the Right Time for the Session

Most couples use their engagement photos for their save the dates and wedding invitations. Make sure you’re scheduling your engagement session roughly 30 days before you want your save the dates printed to account for editing time.

5. Don’t Worry About Posing

I will support you every step of the way. Many people mention feeling awkward in front of the camera or unsure about how to pose, but that’s where I come in! I teach posing classes, so you can trust me to guide you into the right poses for capturing those dreamy, romantic photos without any awkwardness.

6. Incorporate Props

Do you have a special book that hold significant meaning in your relationship? Maybe there’s a special coffee shop, or you guys like to ride your bikes on the weekend. If you want to incorporate some of these special things please let me know! I love creative, meaningful sessions. Always feel free to bring your dog!

7. Relax and Enjoy

Focus on your connection with your partner during the session. Enjoy the moment with each other, which will naturally reflect in your photos.

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Engagement photos Des Moines Iowa Botanical Gardens

8. Communicate with Your Photographer

Communicate your vision, preferences, and any specific shots you want. If there’s a particular pose or location that’s significant to you, please share it with me. I enjoy seeing people express their creativity in envisioning their final gallery. I’m all for creative session and themes, we can get as eccentric as you want!

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engagement photos Des Moines Iowa roof top photos

9. Groom Yourself

Consider scheduling haircuts, manicures, or other grooming sessions a few days before to look and feel your best. Make sure your hair is clean and styled and your clothes aren’t wrinkled. This is a great time to do your hair and makeup trial with your beauty team, so you’re all glammed up before your engagement photos.

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Engagement photos Water Works Park Des Moines Iowa

10. Be Authentic

The best photos capture your true selves. Let your genuine personalities shine and don’t hesitate to show your love for one another!

I love doing engagement photos for all my brides! Reach out have a complimentary engagement session included with ANY wedding package! Lets get in touch, click here to book a free consultation- https://calendly.com/forestfolkphoto/initial-wedding-meeting-with-jessi

Check out my website here- https://jessijohnsonphotography.com/

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