Happy Monday! I am so excited to have Allison Corrin guest posting on the blog today with tips for capturing the perfect engagement picture! I'll let Allison take it from here....
When asked to guest post for Jenny, I was so thrilled for many reasons. Firstly, and most importantly, getting to know Jenny through her her engagement session as well as photographing her own happily after day was an absolute dream. She absolutely glowed through each of these experiences; getting the opportunity to photograph her was beautiful because their love was.
When asked to guest post for Jenny, I was so thrilled for many reasons. Firstly, and most importantly, getting to know Jenny through her her engagement session as well as photographing her own happily after day was an absolute dream. She absolutely glowed through each of these experiences; getting the opportunity to photograph her was beautiful because their love was.
Secondly, as a photographer AND a blogger, I was excited to communicate not only my passion for capturing the romance, laughter and sparkle of life’s most precious moments but also, with a little preparation and thought, the joy that being IN FRONT of the camera can be.
And so, without further adieu, I’d love to address some of the most common questions and thoughts regarding the oh so special engagement session...As anyone who has willingly (or unwillingly...) been in front of the camera knows, being the star of a frame can be not only intimidating, but embarrassing.
How to hold your hands, how to swing a hip, where to look, whether to smile, your good side, your bad side, your backside, and, then of course, before one even gets this far, what to wear...all of these inquiries can make the experience less than enjoyable...dare I say it, even dreaded.
So, what to wear. If the session will take place outside, ask the photographer about the location to plan appropriate clothing. For instance, casual cowboy boots will be even cuter in a scenic field.
Bold colors and black jackets might stand out even stronger against an urban background.
Consider the colors in your home as these probably reflect the schemes you are most drawn to and work outfit choices from these as inspiration
Coordinate colors with your mate but not necessarily patterns. Wear complimentary layers rather than matching. Prominent name brands will take over photos so if you’re purposely conveying the interests you as a couple share such as running, climbing, biking, music, etc. this would be a creative way to make the session more “you”; however, if this is not your intention, know that these messages will be the focus of your frames. If you have a vision for the kind of outfit you want to wear, share your ideas with your photographer and they will often try to find a location to suit your interests and preferences!
Make sure you are dressing to reflect you and your relationship! Consider a dressy outfit that maintains movement and flow without looking stiff or cold; bring along a casual option that is cozy without being sloppy or disheveled.
If you're bringing a change of clothes, start with the ensemble you feel most confident in. You want to feel comfortable, prepared, and excited about the outfit. Layers are nice and provide interesting textures in photos. Accessories also give an element of togetherness. A simple white t-shirt can originally be boring and uneventful, but add layered long necklaces, a jacket and an interesting skirt, patterned pants or bold denim and you have a look to remember! Throw a hat in as not only a timely accessory but a cute prop as well! Decide if you like the idea of looking back on your engagement photos in fifty years with fond memories of the trends of the times, or if you want a more classic appeal to the photos. Both have their advantages.
Next, what to bring. Pinterest is a great place for inspirations in engagement photo props. Sunglasses, blankets, books, hats, musical instruments, all of these small things can be incorporated to create a session that is unique to only you!
One of my favorite photos is one from a session where the couple brought the book he was reading the first time they met. Because she wasn’t sure where to strike up conversation with her crush, she decided to read it so she would have something to chat about next time they were together.
Another favorite is when a couple had always shared a love for VW buses. So, they drove it to the shoot and it became not just a prop but a background!
Another favorite? The couple brought their pups to star in the shoot as well! It was crazy; it was wild; it was their life!
Take some time to look through friends' photos and online for ideas. Share the ideas with your photographer and don't be afraid to ask for specific poses or props.
Look around the session location for items or natural occurrences that could serve as a prop.
Again, these photos are to represent you. Speak up and be excited to share your ideas!
When finally stepping in front of the camera, try to forget it's there.
Make yourself as comfortable as possible. Joke with your mate. Tickle them.
Goof around.
Do what feels natural to you. Cuddle with them. Whisper inside jokes in their ear. Ask the photographer for suggestions on how to hold your hands or where to look if need be, but trust their eye if they give directions.
This all being said, sometimes being in front of the camera requires an element of acting. If you're nervous and can't manage a smile quite yet, start with just chatting with your photographer or mate while still remembering the location of the camera.
Make conversation with them to help yourself get loosened up. Ask them about their business or where their favorite place to shoot is.
Sometimes it's the impromptu moments that make the most beautiful candids.
Try out different places for your hands, different stances with your body, different expressions with your eyes. Be bold.
All in all, realize that most can get a little nervous when stepping in front of the lens.
However, Instead of second guessing the experience, focus on what this session is -
This is probably the last time you will have two different last names.
Your engagement is full of anticipation, excitement, love and fun and this session reflects just that. It’s an amazing time and will include some of the most special pictures ever.
In the Kansas City area, contact Allison Corrin for natural, fun enagement sessions that bring out your personality and capture your beautiful life.
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