- Elevate your wardrobe. Statement pieces. Timeless classics. You are investing in portraits that will last a lifetime, so go for quality pieces that fit great and make you feel amazing. Simple, solid colors are preferred over busy patterns. We will do one or two outfit changes, so bring a few options from casual-chic to night-on-the-town, to red-carpet-ready for some added drama and fun.Menswear: We recommend that men wear coordinating clothing items that have a tailored fit. Button-downs, suit jackets and ties encouraged. Avoid wearing tennis shoes and/or golf polos.
- Professional Hair and Makeup. Go for a trial run of wedding day hair and makeup before your session. If it’s too far out from the wedding and you aren’t ready for a full trial, now is still a great time to try out a hair and makeup artist to make sure their style fits your preferences. Professional hair and makeup will make you feel like a million bucks and that ALWAYS translates to better photos. (Always check with the stylist before scheduling to get an idea of how much time should be allotted for hair/makeup prior to your portrait session – allow a little more time than anticipated just in case the salon is running behind.)
- Get your fiancé involved! Guys are overlooked so much in the wedding planning process – partially because some men say they don’t care, and partially because so much about wedding planning is seen as a stereotypically female interest. But when it comes to having great portraits it DEFINITELY takes two. If he’s not into it then it will show. Give him some say in where you go for pictures and maybe even let him choose something a bit unusual for the first part of the session to help him get warmed up (a favorite date spot, mini-golf, a local arcade to bring out his inner child, you get the idea). 😉 We can create great images in almost any location, and the more relaxed he feels the better the photos will be. (Let your photographer know in advance if you want to create portraits at a local business, as they may need to obtain permission first.)
- Mani-pedi time!! Go out and treat yo’ self to some pampering. We will be getting close up shots of the ring on your finger and the last thing you want is to be self-conscious and hiding your nails. Subtle colors, or a classic French manicure are best to ensure a timeless look. Guys who are okay with embracing their feminine side can join you and get those hands looking fine.
- Eat Something. Have a light snack before your session, but nothing too heavy. You don’t want to feel like you are starving because really that is no fun, but you also don’t want to feel full or bloated. Mixed nuts and some fruit is a great combo. You know yourself and what helps and what doesn’t so just stick with what works for you.
- Make it a date night! Plan to go out for a nice dinner after the session – you are already all dolled up so take advantage of it and have a fabulous date night!! I love engagement sessions because they help take the focus off of planning all the little details and really focus on your relationship, the intimacy between the two of you, and savoring the moments before you say “I do” and life goes back to normal.
- Have fun with it!! This is all about who you are as a couple and each couple is completely unique so let your personalities shine and really enjoy each other’s company. Not only will you walk away with portraits that you will show off to your grandchildren one day, but the evening itself will be a wonderful memory of your time being engaged and head-over-heels in love. Soak it all up and truly enjoy every moment!!!
Your engagement photos are so much more than just pictures you take before your wedding. Make sure you find the right photographer who will bring out the best in both of you. Read more on how to choose the right wedding photographer.
