Have you been wanting to do an engagement shoot, a couples session, or thought about maybe even eloping, but you don't know where to begin? This guide is meant to help couples plan for and feel confident about going in front of the camera so you can have fun while we're together. 

If You Look Good, You'll Feel Good Too

Ladies - even if you aren't into getting your hair and makeup done, you might want to consider it for your couples session. Professional hair and makeup photographs well, and there's a way to ensure it still looks natural. It's also an excellent time to do a trial with your wedding hair and makeup vendors! Contact them ahead of them to see if it's is possible to coordinate for your engagement session.

Another option - let your photographer help you out! Photographers are usually creatives at heart, which means they likely have other creative skills up their sleeves... Fun fact about me: when in High School I wanted to become a makeup artist and have actually done makeup for 4-5 of my clients before the shoot (they bring their own makeup ahead of time). If you're interested in this service, feel free to drop me a line. 

Another thing to think about - if we're doing an engagement shoot, consider getting your nails done beforehand since there will be some photos of the ring. And if you have time, try to get it polished before too so it's extra sparkly for the camera. 

Where Should We Shoot?

It goes without saying that location is everything. My dream locations are usually National Parks or definitely somewhere woodsy, mountainous, or by the beach. If you don't know where to begin, start by thinking about places that inspire you. Did your fiance propose somewhere that you'd like to visit again to recreate the magic of that moment? Did you have a special weekend getaway in Big Sur and have always wanted to go back? Do you both love skiing and want to do an adventurous session on the top of a mountain in Lake Tahoe? What about your favorite local coffee shop, or even your local park? Locations don't have to be far away from home, but they should at least have meaning for you. If you don't want to choose a location, I'm happy to provide some suggestions and help you decide on an ideal spot. 

A couple other things to consider that are sometimes overlooked - sometimes permits are required for certain locations, so we'll need to keep this in mind. Also, if you want to do a couple outfit changes, think about where you might be able to change - is there a bathroom there, or can you park nearby? Once the location and date have been decided on, the timing be worked out in order to ensure we have the best light possible.

What Should I Wear?

If you've seen any of my work, you know I love color, but I also love natural tones. If you're looking for bold and vivid, I can help you decide what to wear based on the location and complimentary colors. But generally speaking, stick to light and neutral shades for the base of your outfit with a pop of color. Blush, cream, soft blues and light gray are wonderful - perhaps with a pair of red shoes or earrings. 

But make sure that you and your partner are on the same page! You want to look like you're heading to the same place - the right amount of casual and the right amount of color to compliment the scenery. If you can't decide on an outfit, feel free to drop me an email and I can weigh in. One of my packages also offers two wardrobe options, so we can get photos in two different outfits!

Tips and Tricks for the Shoot

• Relax, and have fun! This is meant to be a fun activity, so try to go with the flow.
• The first few minutes will be awkward, but that is completely normal! Unless you're a model and are used to being in front of the camera, it will take a few minutes for it to feel natural.
• Don't worry about what you look like - let me take care of that. Focus on your partner. Think about it as a date and flirt with each other! 
• It's okay to be silly and whisper corny jokes in your partner's ear - the more you can make each other laugh, the better! 
• Feeling stuck? That's okay - we can take a break anytime. Sometimes all you need is a little reset. Think about bringing some snacks and water so you don't get hungry or dehydrated. 
• Poses to think about... I LOVE soft kisses on the forehead, getting close, hugging, kissing, holding hands, walking, dancing and twirling... once we're together I'll give you more cues. 

Any Questions?

If you have any questions on what I said above, please get in touch! I'd be happy to help. Ready to book? Head on over to my booking page!