Alright – who’s ready for 7 tips for amazing engagement photos?! Because let’s be real, there are usually two types of people – there are the ones that are sooo pumped for their engagement sessions, and there are the ones who are, well, less enthused about the whole idea. But here’s the thing – engagement sessions should no longer be about stiff poses in a city park with a rando photographer you found on Yelp.

Engagement photos are meant to be a fun part of this whole getting-married experience. They are a time where you can be relaxed, you can wear clothes that feel like you, and you get to announce your engagement in such a fun and beautiful way to your friends and family. So yes, even my dudes: This is meant to be an enjoyable experience, that results in amazing photos you’ll cherish foreva eva.

Let’s get to those 7 tips for amazing engagement photos!!

 

Tip number 1: pick a location that’s special to you

Leah and Bobby’s engagement session took place during a regular stroll through the Ballard Farmers’ Market, because that’s actually one of their favorite places. On top of that? Their wedding venue was just down the block at the Olympic Rooftop Pavilion. This immediately made them more comfortable, and added a sentimental feel. If you can’t think of a specific location that means a lot to you, consider your favorite activities and let’s see how we can incorporate them. Ehem – see tip number 2 😉

Tip number 2: incorporate an activity

Doing something with your hands or going through the motions of a regular activity can put everyone at ease. Plus it usually ends up in some awesome candid moments. If it’s playing a game at your favorite neighborhood bar, or hiking one of your favorite paths, it’s awesome to make it more of a fun outing for the day!

Tip number 3: avoid places with tons of people

Sure, some locations will inevitably have lots of people. But try to think outside the box if you think people watching you get photographed will make you particularly uneasy. This is also another reason I suggest doing engagement sessions during the week – less crowds, plus you get to take a morning or afternoon off. Maybe there’s a neighborhood coffee shop and park that would be wide open, or if we’re hiking it’ll be guaranteed less crowded on a week day.

 

 

Tip number 4: ask each other these prompts in the car

Honestly, you totally may have had some bickering go down the morning of your engagement session – it happens!! Regardless, one of my favorite things to tell people is to get in the right mindset by taking some intentional time in the car together. We want these photos to feel alive with your emotion and gratitude for one another. Here are a few of my fave prompts for each other!

• Each person say three things they love about their partner
• Each person tell your partner your favorite memory about the early stages of dating
• Each person tell your partner their favorite quirk about your relationship
• Each person tell your partner one thing they are excited for in your marriage

 

Tip number 5: pick out outfits that are comfortable and feel like YOU

I think there’s a lot of pressure these days to make your engagement session feel super fancy – and don’t get me wrong, you can totally do a fancy outfit!! But maybe pack some other outfits that are slightly more casual. Have your other outfit options feel comfortable (walking around in heels – not fun), and feel like an extension of your everyday self – just a little more dolled up! Pack comfy shoes if we’ll be walking a lot, wear those old jeans that just make you feel good, and keep things simple. We want these outfits to reflect who you are and not distract from the relationship that we’re actually capturing! If you need more tips on outfit inspo – hit me up or take a gander at this Pinterest board!

Tip number 6: consider getting a hair and makeup trial done beforehand

If you plan on getting your hair and/or makeup done for your wedding, why not start trying out artists now? You can see if you vibe with them and want to hire them for your wedding day, and you’ll feel uber confident in these photos with that extra step. It’d be a bummer if you got back your photos and all you could see was that piece of hair out of place, or your cat-eye eyeliner gone south!!

Tip number 7: pack some booze!!

If you are an alcohol drinker, totally feel free to pack along a flask or some brews. Or we can start at your brewery or bar of choice, too! You’d be surprised how much this can help if you or your partner is just totally camera shy or feeling a little nervous. Of course we’d want to keep it limited before/during the session (photoshopping droopy eyelids is not one of my fortays), but if you wanna continue the fun afterword, I just may have to join ya!

There ya have it!

My 7 tips for amazing engagement photos. Most importantly, these tips will transform your session from a weird, uncomfortable time, to a fun outing you’ll be telling your friends about. I’ll bring my speakers, you bring the flask – and let’s have a good time!

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