I'm Haley, a Kentucky and Nashville based luxury wedding photographer. I serve authentic, vibrant couples and specialize in small, intimate weddings. I started photographing weddings three years ago and quickly realized that the moments you want to remember aren't always perfectly scripted - they are uncut, raw, and writhing with emotion, and that I have the ability to capture those moments.
How to Embrace and Enjoy Your Engagement Session with Your Photographer
Congratulations on your engagement! This exciting phase in your life marks the beginning of a beautiful journey with your partner. Amidst the wedding planning chaos, your engagement session is a special opportunity to capture the essence of your love before you say, “I do.” To ensure you have a memorable and enjoyable experience with your photographer, here are some tips to make the most of your engagement session.
Choose the Right Photographer: Selecting the right photographer is crucial for an enjoyable engagement session. Take the time to research and review their portfolio to ensure their style aligns with your vision. Meet with the photographer before the shoot to establish a rapport and discuss your expectations. When you feel comfortable and confident with your photographer, you’ll be more at ease during the session, leading to natural and stunning photographs.
Pick a Meaningful Location: Select a location that holds sentimental value to you and your partner. Whether it’s where you first met, a favorite park, or the place of your proposal, the emotional connection with the setting will bring out genuine emotions and expressions, making your photos more authentic.
Dress Comfortably and Coordinate Outfits: Choose outfits that reflect your personalities and make you feel comfortable. Coordinate your attire with your partner, but avoid being too matchy-matchy. Instead, opt for complementary colors and styles that work well together. Feeling good in what you wear will boost your confidence and add to the overall enjoyment of the session.
Be Yourself and Have Fun: Remember that the engagement session is a celebration of your love and relationship. Let your guard down, be yourself, and have fun with your partner. Laugh, dance, and embrace each other, allowing your photographer to capture the candid, joyful moments that showcase your unique connection.
Trust Your Photographer’s Direction: Your photographer is an expert in capturing beautiful moments, so trust their creative direction and suggestions during the shoot. They will know how to position you, use lighting to your advantage, and bring out the best in your relationship. Letting go of control and allowing the photographer to work their magic will lead to stunning results.
Incorporate Personal Elements: Consider adding personal touches to your engagement session. Bring props that are meaningful to your relationship, such as a book you both love, your pet, or items that represent shared hobbies. These personal elements will make the photos more meaningful and tell the story of your love.
Time it Right: Choose the time of day carefully. Early morning or late afternoon provides the best lighting for dreamy and romantic shots. Discuss the timing with your photographer to ensure you make the most of the natural light available.
Take Breaks and Stay Relaxed: Engagement sessions can be exciting but can also be tiring. Take breaks as needed to refresh and recharge. Stay relaxed and hydrated throughout the session, ensuring you both look and feel your best.
Be Open to Experimentation: Your engagement session is a chance for your photographer to experiment with various angles, compositions, and styles. Be open to trying new things and stepping out of your comfort zone. You may end up with some surprisingly unique and beautiful shots.
Celebrate the Experience: After your engagement session, take time to celebrate the milestone you’ve reached as a couple. Relish the memories you created during the shoot and look forward to the lifelong journey you’re about to embark upon together.
Your engagement session should be a time of joy and celebration, capturing the essence of your love as you prepare for your wedding day. By choosing the right photographer, being yourselves, and incorporating personal touches, you can make your engagement session a memorable and enjoyable experience that will be reflected in the photographs you’ll cherish for a lifetime. So, relax, smile, and let the love between you and your partner shine through!