ABOUT ME: I photographed my first wedding more that 10 years ago, and unfortunately, I did not have an engagement session with that client. I had a decent camera and these were friends of friends that asked if I would take their wedding pictures. I agreed, but have since then come to believe that the engagement session is important enough that I include it with all my wedding clients. This is a chance for me to get to know the couple, find out what their interests are, find what poses they are most comfortable with, and what level of affection they show toward each other. Some people rarely smile, and if I keep asking them to smile on their wedding day, well, it's going to be a really long day. One of my favorite things to do is surprising my clients with the images they've been dreaming of.
Tip 1
Schedule the session time, but be flexible.
If your engagement session is scheduled outside, whenever possible, try to include the golden hour in your engagement session schedule. For photography, the golden hour is the hour or so before sunset. Even when the sunset isn't included in the image the softer light that fills the sky is usually more complementary to your image.
Tip 2
Look for the light
Communicate with your photographer prior to the session about what type of images you want to have from your engagement pictures. If you prefer high contrast images, over softer tones, let your photographer know. Often it is good to look at their website and give the photographer examples of what you like. Without a doubt, you will be happier with the results when the images delivered are in line with your expectations. That being said, be open to what the venue will bring. Your photographer will be the trusted professional with the experience to bring the best out of the environment.
Tip 3
Plan your grooming habits for the session time.
While this might not be obvious, it will go a long way in getting the more images you want. If your groom has a 5 o'clock shadow by 3 in the afternoon, ask him to shave a couple hours before the session time. If your bride wants that just tanned look, give your skin 24 to 48 hours to recover it's natural glow before the session. The same could be said for hair cuts or other things that might not be done on a daily basis, allow your body a little time to adjust, you will feel more confident and the images will show it!
Tip 4
Bonus Tip: Hydrate the day before & day of your session.
It sounds a little crazy, but yes, drinking an extra glass or two of water before your session will make your images come out better. Not to get all sciency, but drinking a glass of water will assist in flushing out any toxins in your body, and should make you feel better about yourself. Just not right before the session, that could be problematic.
ARE YOU READY FOR YOUR ENGAGEMENT PHOTOS?
This is only the beginning of the tips your professional photographer will bring to your wedding.
Your wedding is a once in a lifetime event, your wedding photographer should be a trusted advisor for the details that will make your day special.