How To Get The Most From Your Engagement Session | Portland, OR Engagement Photographer

Did you know that the holiday's are the most popular time of the year for people to pop the question to their special someone? Really, could you ask for a better holiday surprise then getting asked by the one you love if you'd spend the rest of your life with them. 

Were you one of the lucky ones who got engaged this past holiday season? Let me say, congratulations! You are about to embark on a very exciting journey! Although exciting, wedding planning can be a lot of work and even a little overwhelming at times. Put your mind at ease and keep these simple tips in mind before your engagement session and make one step of the process a lot easier on yourself!

1. Pick a location that has meaning to you:

Pick a location that you love or holds some sentimental value to you both. If you are somewhere that makes you happy that will absolutely shine through in your photos. Consider picking the place you guys had your first date, your favorite place to hangout, your favorite hiking spot or even the place your sweetheart popped the question. 

2. Consider the season:

Plan ahead and book your session accordingly. Do you want beautiful, warm, summery photos? Or are you wanting to have an adventure in the rain? Or do you really love the beautiful colors of fall? The location you choose may be very different given the time of year so make sure that you are keeping that in mind. Are you planning on using your photos for your save the dates or invitations? Make sure that you book your session with enough time to get the photos you need before the wedding date.

3. What to wear:

There is a lot of things to consider when choosing your outfits for your session but the number one priority is, is it comfortable and practical for the location? If you are not comfortable in what you are wearing, it will show in your photos so no matter what you choose, you should feel good in it.

Coordinate, don't match. Matching is outdated. Pick complementary colors and only one person should be wearing a pattern.

Layers and accessories add dimension to your outfit and make it more interesting. Scarves, sweaters, jewelry are all great ways to spice up an outfit.

Shoes matter! Avoid wearing tennis shoes unless that are trendy (think converse or vans) and that go with the look and feel of your session. Try to avoid stilettos if you are in a grassy field. If you choose a location that is a bit of hike, wear a comfy pair of shoes to hike up in and change into the shoes you want to wear just before pictures.

Think about your location when picking choosing your outfits. An evening gown or tux may feel a little off in the middle of the woods.

Consider the weather, you probably won't be comfortable in a sundress is it's 40 degrees out. Dress to match the weather because comfort is key.

Bring outfit changes. Most engagement session last about 2 hours and having more than one outfit will help to bring some variety to your session. Don't be afraid to bring more changes of clothes than you may need, you never know when inspiration might hit. It is always better to have more options.

4. The ring and your nails:

We want to show off that beautiful ring of yours, get your ring polished and get a manicure before your session for a more finished look in close up shots of your ring.

5: Props and pups:

If you have something you are envisioning for your session, don't hesitate to bring it along. Props can really make your images stand out and add a fun and unique element to your session. Bringing your fur-baby to your session can be a fun little treat. Now that being said, I have noticed that when some dogs are included, owners tend to stress more and that will show in your photos. Think about your dog's obedience skills and whether or not you feel adding him or her will be stressful. Bring treats, a squeaky toy and poop bags if you do decide to include them.
Sometimes the best photographs are the simplest, where a beautiful backdrop and subjects really shine, so don't worry if you just want to keep it simple.

6: RELAX AND HAVE FUN!

You engagement session is all about you and your love story, it should be a fun and memorable experience. Come to your session relaxed and ready to have fun. Take a little time to breath and relax before your session, sit down and have a quiet moment with a nice hot cup of coffee to wind down.

Are you feeling excited about your engagement photos? Are you thinking about booking your engagement session? Let's chat! I would love to create some beautiful memories together. Contact me at Brianna@BmwPhotography.net or (360)721-5536 to set up your free engagement session consultation!