Not sure how to begin planning your engagement photos? Here are a few things you will need to think about! Preparing for your engagement photo session is truly one of the best parts of the wedding planning process in my opinion. For many people it is the first time you and your now fiancé have ever been photographed professionally together. It is an amazing way to get comfortable with your wedding photographer so you feel more prepared on your big day. Many couples also use their engagement photos for save the dates and items such as guest books or displays at their wedding reception. Now for the main things you need to think about before your session!
First of all, let’s figure out what vibe you’re going for
Engagement photos be something to look back on for the rest of your lives so I always encourage people to choose a vibe that fits with their lifestyle and represents them as a couple. My husband and I live on a little hobby farm in Wisconsin and love being outdoors. An engagement session in downtown Minneapolis in an industrial building would not have worked for us! Think about your hobbies, what you like to do together, where you live and have that in mind when planning your engagement photos. I love it when couples incorporate meaningful props, their pet or things that are important to them. I’m a crazy dog mom, you’d better believe our dog was involved in our engagement photos! This is also a chance to do something a little bit out of the ordinary if you want. Hot air balloon ride engagement photos? Heading out fishing? Yes!
Location is a big part of planning your engagement photos
Location, location, location! It’s all about location. Make sure the location matches the vibe you’re going for. Think about where you had your first date. Or where you go to spend time together. Multiple locations is also awesome for engagement photos! Try to think of somewhere you can easily walk or quickly drive to another spot. Also keep in mind things like crowds and popularity of the location. Other things to consider: if pets are allowed and you’re including your dog, if there is a bathroom nearby, and the parking situation.
Some of favorite locations for engagement sessions near Eau Claire, WI include Phoenix Park, Rod & Gun Park, River Prairie Center in Altoona and Big Falls County Park.
A few extra tips for planning your engagement photos
- Clean up the “little things”. What do I mean by this? Nails, hair, facial hair, shoes, etc. Clean the dirt out from under your fingernails (hands in general are photographed a lot in engagement sessions and on wedding days) and make sure there isn’t mud on your boots. That kind of thing goes a long way!
- Be flexible on timing for your session. Almost all photographers will recommend outdoor sessions happen at a certain time of day because of the light. Trust them. Indoor sessions are a completely different ballgame in regards to best light for photos.
- Have Fun!
Next, check out one of my favorite engagement sessions on my portfolio here!
