There are tons of engagement photo tips out there but I thought I’d share a few of my own. Enjoy!

Updated 2020.

 

Engagement Photo Tips

 

1. Preparation

 

Preparing for a shoot is very important. If a few of these items are missed then you could end up having lousy shoot or an experience that could have gone way better.

For instance, a simple common sense tip would be to make sure you eat and have proper energy for the shoot. I’ve had someone in the past who came straight from work without eating for several hours and it showed. If you don’t have the energy you can’t perform.

The next tip will save your shoot and possible life lol. Mosquito spray. Especially during our Manitoba summers, you know how bad this can be if it’s forgotten. You can’t feel totally comfortable and you’re more likely to rush through the shoot just to end it.

Another tip is bringing a small bag to put water, snacks, and the sprays in. Staying hydrated and full of energy is important.

Prepare for a shoot accordingly for the location and the temperature. Make sure you have proper shoes and clothing and a good sense of your environment. I usually email a well-detailed list for my couples to review for their shoot.

Engagement Photo Tips

 

2. Communication

A photographer should be getting to know you and an engagement shoot should feel far from awkward.

It’s like dating..lol  You slowly feel more comfortable with each other and you start letting down your guard and this is done by communication.

Basically getting to know you both and what kind of feel you might be going for in your photos. Asking about your relationship and the things you guys like to do, special locations etc..

If the communication is lacking then that’s a red flag. It will be hard to feel comfortable in front of them which will show in the photos.

There should be easy communication back and forth and by the end, they should feel like a friend who’s looking out for your best interest.

You wouldn’t want someone you don’t get along with by your side all day long at your wedding. So make sure you guys fit!

Booking an engagement shoot separately can help confirm any lingering concerns during your initial meeting with your photographer.

Also, make sure the photographer you meet during your consultation is the same photographer that will be photographing you on the engagement and wedding day.

Mentioning any strong vision for the shoot or specific photographs is important too.

For both you and your photographer to be happy.. communicate : )

 

Rob + Priya’s engagement shoot

Engagement Photo tips

 

3. Theme

Some couples forget about this and I have to remind them that these photos will most likely end up in a guest book or in some other format for your reception. So they are very important and having a consistent theme matters. I sometimes get asked should I wear two outfits or bring just one?

To have a consistent theme I recommend just one because it will flow better in your guest book as a consistent story and changing outfits will kind of look off. This isn’t a rule but more often it is the best answer. The only time you want another outfit is if you’re playing tennis or something if that’s what you really love doing together and then changing into something more classy afterward.

 

Engagement photo tips

4.Guest books

It is very important to spend a little money here. Albums and guestbooks are the final product where your photos will live. Having the best quality ink, paper, and build quality will say a lot when people pick it up and view your images. No point spending thousands on a photographer to only have a do it yourself product. In the past, I’ve seen glamorous weddings with awful guestbooks. Guests are going to feel and look at your guestbook more closely than any other detail at your reception. Make sure you have a good one!

Your photographer will have a good album company he or she will work closely with and they are normally around $500 which will be an everlasting book full of memories, well wishes, and love from your guests. You need good quality products for your memories. That’s what we’re doing this for.

 

Engagement photo tips

 

5. What to wear?

Classy but comfortable. Make sure you’re not so dressed up where you don’t feel comfortable sitting down, lying down or not able to walk in uncomfortable shoes. Keeping it simple but also representing who you are is important. The only time I would break this rule is if we are intentionally trying to go full glamour with a high end styled shoot. If you’re just looking for nice elegant photos then what you would wear on a night out on the town works great.

Watch out for jewelry that can be distracting such as watches and big earrings or necklaces. You don’t want to wear anything that distracts the eyes from the moment. Also, shoes will break or make the photos so no sneakers unless of course, it all works together with the style that represents you and if that’s the look you’re going for.

Gentlemen, please iron your shirts and pants. Everything can look amazing but it’s these small things that you and others will always look at, once again taking away from the moment.

Nails and hands. Please trim fingernails and lotion any dry skin. This is important because hands show up in photos a lot which is something we never think about.

Last but not least, book a good hair and makeup artist ladies, but you already knew that 😉

 

Jason+Wajihah engagement shoot 

Engagement photo tips

 

6. Locations

Is there a special place that means something to both of you? For instance, Jason and Wajihah in this photo loved this lake and cabin. It’s a place that really meant something to them while their relationship grew. Maybe you have a place like this? If not, don’t worry, photographers always have a great list of ideas for locations : )

Go outside the box… I love to travel and constantly share my travel schedule with the bride and grooms to be. Some couples are willing to meet up with me somewhere exotic if they find a quick cheap flight somewhere. Vegas.. New York.. Vancouver always has some great deals on flights. Why stop there? I went to Iceland for less than $400 return from Toronto. Get adventurous.

If that’s not doable don’t worry Manitoba has great locations. With some careful research, you can make your engagement shoot a memorable one.

Monty + Sumeeta

Engagement photo tips

 

7. My significant other is not into photos.

This is very common and it’s usually the guy’s lets be honest. Just know that your photographer should make both of you feel very comfortable right from the start of developing a report and being totally relaxed. The biggest thing is that guys aren’t used to taking photos. Girls take a lot more selfies and are way more confident in front of the camera so they’ve had practice Guys don’t know what to expect and the photographer should make them feel comfortable. Let them know that it’s not serious and to be themselves.

There’s also no pressure on an engagement shoot and that’s the beauty of it. It’s like a practice round and an opportunity to get to know each other better. It will help you let your guard down even more on the wedding day to get those beautiful natural photos.

We don’t want fake-looking photos. A good photographer will make you feel completely comfortable and at ease in front of the lens. If you guys want to be models then that’s cool too 😉

Professional photographers also have your best intentions of looking good so there’s no need to stress about anything. It’s always way more fun then people think it is, especially if your photographer is creative and has a good personality.

Here are some great engagement photos and ideas from a community I’m apart of Mywed.

Check out Wedding Tips for some great ideas and thoughtful advice for your wedding day.

If you’re interested in getting engagement photos please contact me today