10 Tips for Planning your Engagement Shoot


Congratulations on your Engagement!black and white engagement photo of couple and ring at beach

Now that you've said yes, it's time to capture the excitement and love you both share in a memorable engagement photoshoot. Planning for this special session can help ensure you get the most stunning shots possible. Here are some essential tips to consider before your engagement photoshoot:

  1. Picking the Right Location: The location sets the tone for your photoshoot. Whether it's the beach, a picturesque park, a charming downtown area, or a meaningful spot where you had your first date, select a location that reflects your personalities and the story of your relationship. Consider places that have sentimental value or showcase your shared interests. I can definitely help recommend places to make the shoot perfect and everything you wanted!                        engaged couple walking down a road surrounded by beautiful canopying oak trees
  1. When’s the best time for the Photoshoot: The timing of your photoshoot can greatly impact the lighting and overall atmosphere of your pictures. The "golden hour," which occurs during the hour after sunrise or before sunset, provides soft, flattering light that enhances your photos. Avoid midday when the sun is harsh and can cause unflattering shadows. Don't worry, I will work with you to plan for the best possible time.beautiful couple on the beach at sunset
  1. What Should you Wear?: Coordinate your outfits to complement each other without being too matchy-matchy. Choose colors and styles that work well together and reflect your personalities. Consider wearing solid colors or subtle patterns that won't distract from your faces. Also, keep in mind the location and season when selecting your attire. Neutral colors are always great and you can never go wrong with a “casual” fancy. newly engaged couple kissing and flashing their engagement ring to the camera
  1. Being Prepared: Once your location is set, think about what you could bring as a “just in case”. What do I mean by that? Well, let’s say we do a photoshoot at the beach, and we do some photos in the water. Make sure to bring a change of clothes and a towel. If we do a photoshoot at a park, maybe bring a blanket to do some cute picnic style photos, and maybe some bug spray.
  1. The Weather is on Watch: Weather, especially in Florida can be well, let’s just say “random”. But I keep an eye on the weather forecast leading up to your photoshoot day. As we get closer to the day, if weather looks precarious, I will get in touch with you, and we will discuss alternate options just in case. As a note on weather, if you plan a beach location, expect there to be wind. This is a normal thing for beach shoots and is just something that should be embraced. I have done this a long time and don’t worry, your photos will still turn out great!couple posing at the beach for an engagement shoot
  1. Accessorize Thoughtfully: Accessories can add a personal touch to your photos and help showcase your individual styles. Whether it's a statement necklace, a bouquet of flowers, or a beloved pet, choose accessories that enhance the overall look without overpowering it. Simple is always better.
  1. Nervous about Posing? Whether you prefer posed photos, candid photos, editorials, or some other style, don’t worry, I have you covered. We will do a blend of all of the above and more. If you have any specific photos you want to recreate, don’t hesitate to send them to me. I can be creative forever, but I want to make sure we get those shots that you definitely want.engaged couple walking down a path surrounded by beautiful red flowers
  1. Should we have props: Props can add depth and storytelling to your engagement photos if they have a specific meaning. However, props if too big or with no true meaning can be a distraction. In the end its totally up to you on props but let me know if you want to bring some so we can incorporate them appropriately. 
  1. Ideas an Inspiration: I get tons of questions about outfits, photo examples and more. Even though I have answered a lot of those in this, I have found it extremely helpful for people to find example photos online and use those as inspirations. You can go to Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, etc. and look at engagement photoshoots. When you find one you like: what are they wearing? What’s the location? Use them for inspiration. You can always send me examples as well. You can find tons of inspiration on my social media as well:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/willsbeenhere

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WillSimpsonPhoto/

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/TheWillSimpson

My Portfolio: https://thewillsimpson.com/pages/portfolio-newcute couple running into the water at the beach at sunset black and white photo

  1. We’re going to have a great time: Most importantly, relax and enjoy the experience! Your engagement photoshoot is a celebration of your love, so let your joy and affection shine through. We are going to work together to have a great time so don't be afraid to be yourselves in front of the camera.

By following these tips and planning ahead, you can ensure that your engagement photoshoot is a beautiful and memorable experience that captures the essence of your love story. 

And if you have any questions or details you'd like to go over, don't hesitate to let me know.

Cheers,

Will

P.S. And yes, I do shoot weddings as well. My team and I do Photography and Videography for weddings. But thats for another time 😄beautiful wedding couple walking in a field of yellow flowers. Dressed in wedding dress and suit

 

 


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