“How Should I Get Ready for an Engagement Session?”

Now that we are starting to come into the wedding season, I am shooting more and more engagement / lifestyle sessions. Before each session, I often get asked, “what color clothes should I wear?” or, “How should we prepare??”

Relax… actually, quite literally, that should be the mantra! So, rule #1, make yourself as comfortable and confident as possible in front of the camera. Wear something that will make you feel good inside or go exercise before hand if that will get you pumped up for the session (guys, if you want those biceps to really show…)

Having said that, here are a few suggestions to think about, and don’t let any of these interfere with rule #1 above!

1. Dress warm and maybe bring a blanket. Normally, I like to shoot the engagement session around sunset for the optimal lighting, and you all know how quickly the temperature drops around then

2. Dress in layers – you could strip off / add layers as the temperature changes. It can also give you different looks. Guys, if you are wearing a blazer, consider bringing 2 different color blazers, both matching the underlying outfit. If we are shooting at several different locations, consider changing your outfits for each location.

3. With regard to color of your outfits, and again this must be within your own comfort zone, you will natually “pop” in the final images if what you wear is more vibrant and colorful.

4. Hair and make-up: Ladies, when you know you look good, you feel fantastic! For the brides, you may want to schedule the trial run of your wedding make-up / hair on the same day as your engagement shoot.

5. Alcohol, is it a good idea? Well, it’s your call. If it will help relax you, absolutely, go for it (provided the person is not driving!). Just don’t go overboard! If you have a tendency to turn red when you drink, then don’t do it (or make sure your make up will cover it up)

6. Wear comfortable shoes – we will walk around a lot, and you may be running or jumping, too!

Most importantly, bring yourselves! The shoot is about the two of you and how you are when you are around one another. As a photographer, I am here to document those fleeing moments. Let your true selves shine through!