How to Plan Your Engagement Session Part 2
Engagement sessions can be painless and relaxed.
The same great advice with a few additions and some updated photos. Hope it helps anyone trying to figure how to plan their engagement session.
Step 1: Figure out two things: what you want your photos to look like and what you don't want your photos to look like. Start a collection of photos you've seen on the internet that you love using Pinterest, Trello, Slack or my personal favorite Evernote. Describing what you want as well as showing examples can be super helpful.
Step 2: Do your research. Chances are there’s a photographer who's tried out your vision - see what they did and how you can make it specific to you or how you can improve it.
Step 3: Choose a photographer who will listen to your ideas and collaborate with you. Work with someone who's excited about doing something different and who has ideas to contribute.
Step 4: Pick two locations you love and see if your photographer has any suggestions based on what you’ve given them. They might suggest something totally different, but you may end up with photos you didn't expect and that you love.
When choosing locations, find out what fees are associated with that place and consider adding it to your budget. A lot of nice places for photos, like state parks, require a fee because the location requires upkeep.
Another fun idea: consider doing a destination engagement session if you have a trip planned! Or if you’re going somewhere for your bachelorette, maybe see if your partner can join you for a day.
Not feeling like doing an engagement session?
Consider doing a post-wedding session (I love how relaxed couples are after their wedding!) or an anniversary session instead.
Extra Tips
Wear clothes that make you feel great and shoes you don't mind walking in and maybe even jumping or running in. Think more along lines of a palette of colors rather than too matchy-matchy, and try to stay away from tiny prints (especially on men’s shirts). Check out this Pinterest board for inspiration.
Make sure your partner is on the same page and knows what to expect.
Grab some light food and drinks beforehand - there's nothing worse than being hungry for two hours.
Bring water and bug spray, especially if the shoot is outdoors!
Questions to Ask Yourself
Here are a few questions to help make sure you get the engagement photos you really want. Remember, there's no wrong answer!
Do you want these photos to tell a story about what you and your partner love to do together? Or places you love to go together?
Or would you rather your photos to be somewhere beautiful, where you and your partner are the main focus?
Are these photos going to be used for a save the date? Photos are typically delivered around 3 weeks after a session, so make sure to plan your session with that timeframe in mind.
Will you be displaying any large photos at your wedding? Make sure to let your photographer knows so they can send you the right file size for your large print.
