10 Tips for the Best Engagement Portraits
Congratulations, you’re getting married! There’s so much that goes into wedding planning, and you might be looking for advice, like, how do I get great engagement Portraits? We understand you want the best photos you can get, and we want that for you, too. I've done dozens of engagement sessions over the years, and here are the best tried and true tips for getting amazing images.
1. Pick a Great Location
When it comes to getting engagement portraits like those you drool over on Pinterest, location can go a long way. If you pick a setting that already has the aesthetic you’re going for, the hard work is already done for you. Love books? Try a library. Want something cinematic? Why not an airplane hanger? Want something secluded and romantic? How about a National Park or Lake?
2. Wear Attire to Inspire
Part of the fun of engagement portraits is that they’ll give you and your fiance well-lit, professional photos of you-- in something other than your wedding clothes. After the wedding, there will be times you want to use a wedding photo, and times that you’ll want to use an engagement photo. Imagine what you’ll want to do with these photos after the wedding, and set your dress code from there. Whether you dress to the nines or go for a casual stroll, there’s no wrong choice (we’re not told this nearly enough in wedding planning). All that matters is that it means something to you.
3. Bring a Sense of Play
Getting a great engagement Portrait is all about being comfortable in front of the camera. Try things. Experiment. Play! If you’re feeling shy in front of the camera, a great way to get out of your head is to try something silly. Whisper something in your fiance’s ear that you know will make them laugh. Strike a pose you think is goofy. Loosening up and having confidence will always give you great engagement photos.
4. Props, Props, Props
A great photo tells a story. There are so many items that we immediately equate with whimsy and romance. When you add props to your engagement session, it’ll intensify the story you’re telling. You can hold balloons, ride bikes, carry umbrellas, or bring your dog.
5. Save the Date!
We always recommend getting a save-the-date portrait. It’s such a great way to get your friends and family excited for your big day. These pictures will normally have negative space such as the sky, the wall of a building, or a blank area that won't distract from the text that will be added later. If you've already sent your own save-the-dates, you can always use this image on your wedding website or for a social media post leading up to the wedding.
6. Color Story
Color adds so much to engagement portraits. Pick a bold color that pops in images. Look for colors that pair well together when picking your ensembles. Love black and don’t want to give it up? Why not go for a monochrome engagement session? The key here is to be intentional.
7. Wear Statement Accessories
Love a flower crown? This is your excuse to wear one. Whether you rock your favorite pair of statement earrings, a bold scarf, or a flower crown, statement accessories can give your engagement photos an editorial feel. Who doesn’t want photos of themselves that look like they were ripped straight from the pages of Vogue?
8. Include Members of Your Family
Are you pet parents? Bring your pooch for some pawfect engagement pics. Engagement portraits are all about showing the life you and your partner have built together, so bring them along. That goes for the kiddos, too. If you have kids, you can include them in some of your pics for some heart-melting photos that feature the whole family.
9. Get Great Light
When it comes to flattering photos, lighting is key. Natural light is often most flattering (unless you’re dealing with harsh sunlight directly overhead), so look for indoor locations with plenty of windows and natural lights or outdoor spots. For the best of the best lighting, schedule your engagement session during the golden hour, when the light is at its most flattering.
10. Dress Comfortable
Remember to account for comfort when you’re dressing for your session. If you’re going to be walking, you may want comfortable shoes? If it’s going to be cold, bring a coat. If it’ll be hot, keep your clothing breezy (and make sure to pack some water). A big part of staying comfortable in front of the camera is making sure you don’t feel physically uncomfortable. A little planning ahead of time can make sure you set yourself up for success.