Many newly engaged couples question the need for engagement photos. But let’s set aside those preconceived notions and look at the bigger picture:
Engagement photography gives you a chance to showcase your love story in a beautiful setting that is meaningful to you and your partner. It’s a perfect opportunity to get creative and create photos that will delight your loved ones.
1. It’s a chance to get to know your photographer
It’s always easier for couples to relax and be themselves in front of the camera when they have a good connection with their photographer. This is why it’s important to make sure that you take the time to get to know your couple before their shoot.
A great way to do this is by getting to know their personalities, interests, and what they want out of their engagement photos. For example, if they’re both bookworms, you can incorporate some books into their session to highlight their shared love of reading. Or, if they’re both surfers, you can use props like surfboards to capture their laid-back spirit.
You can also help your couple feel comfortable by setting clear expectations ahead of time. This includes discussing things like the timing of their session, rescheduling options (because we all know that life is unpredictable), and giving posing tips. By having open communication with your couple, you’ll ensure that their shoot is a success.
2. It’s a chance to get comfortable in front of the camera
Getting your client comfortable in front of the camera is one of the most important things you can do for them. It’s the difference between a pose that looks unnatural and a pose that feels natural.
One of the best ways to help your clients feel natural is to get them moving. Whether it’s asking them to stroll along with their hands clasped together or taking a few photos with them standstill but with their fingers intertwined, having the couple move will help them to forget that there’s a camera in their face and allow them to interact naturally with each other.
Having your couple interact and laugh is also an excellent way to help them feel more comfortable in front of the camera. This is especially true if the laughter is genuine. Having these moments to showcase on their wedding website, social media, or day-of slideshow will be an excellent reminder of how much they love each other.
3. It’s a chance to get creative
When you're surrounded by cheesy couples photos and run of the mill shots, engagement photography gives you an opportunity to add your creative touch. You can use props to highlight a couple's interests or even incorporate a theme to tie the session together.
For example, if your clients are foodies, consider incorporating some food shots in their shoot. This will make them feel at ease and give the photographs a unique style. For cinephiles, why not include a shot at the local cinema?
You can also experiment with different angles and lighting. You can create a dramatic effect by using a low shutter speed and a wide aperture to blur the background and create beautiful bokeh. Or, you can play with different color gels to alter your subject's skin tone and create a unique look. Just remember to keep the focus on your subjects. That's the most important thing!
4. It’s a chance to get to know your partner
Whether it’s a tickle-fest or a snowball fight, engagement photography offers a fun and easy way to get to know your partner. Get to know what makes them laugh genuinely and what little things they like doing together. These details will help to create a more meaningful photograph in the long run.
Adding props to an engagement session is another great way to help couples feel at ease and create more excitement within their images. However, be sure that the props used are either requested by the couple or go with the engagement session theme.
The engagement photo session is a chance to validate your photographer and make sure that they are the right fit for your wedding day. It is also a chance to get your photos ready to be included on save the dates or used as wall art for your home. The memories created will be something to look back on in years to come.