Engagement Photos 101: Tips for the Perfect Pre-Wedding Shoot

Engagement photos are a great way to celebrate your love story before the big day. They capture a special time in your relationship and give you the chance to get comfortable in front of the camera. These images can be used for save-the-dates, wedding websites, or just as a keepsake.

A little preparation goes a long way in making sure your engagement session turns out just the way you want. From choosing the right outfits to picking a meaningful location, small details can make a big difference. Here’s a guide to help you plan the perfect pre-wedding shoot.

10+ Tips for the Perfect Pre-Wedding Shoot

Choose a Location That Feels Personal

Think about places that have meaning to your relationship. It could be where you first met, a favorite park, or even your home. A location that holds sentimental value will add an extra layer of authenticity to your photos.

The best engagement photos feel natural, reflect your style, and capture the connection between you and your partner.

Time It Right

Lighting plays a huge role in how your photos turn out. The golden hour—just after sunrise or before sunset—offers soft, flattering light. If you’re going for a city vibe, evening shots with lights in the background can add a romantic feel.

An engagement session is more than just a photo shoot—it’s an opportunity to express your personality as a couple. Choosing the right time of day that fits both you and your partner ensures a perfect photo shoot, capturing the best light and creating memorable moments.

Wear Something That Reflects Your Style

Choose outfits that make you feel comfortable and confident. Coordinating colors work well, but avoid being too matched. Stick to solid colors or subtle patterns and steer clear of anything with large logos or overly bold prints.

Whether you prefer casual or formal for your engagement photos, choose outfits that reflect who you are as a couple.

Plan for the Weather or Season

Since engagement sessions often take place outdoors, keep an eye on the forecast and have a backup plan. If it looks like rain, bringing clear umbrellas can add a creative touch while keeping you dry.

For a winter shoot, layer up with cozy coats and scarves, while a summer session might call for lighter fabrics and breathable clothing. Be mindful of the environment around you and choose attire that complements both the weather and your chosen location, so you can enjoy the experience without being too hot, cold, or uncomfortable.

Get to Know Your Photographer

Building a rapport with your photographer ahead of time makes a difference. A quick chat or video call before the session helps them understand your personality and preferences, making the experience feel more relaxed.

A photographer who understands your style, personality, and preferences will be able to capture authentic moments that reflect who you are as a couple.

Incorporate Meaningful Props

If there’s something special to your relationship—like a pet, a picnic setup, or even a vintage car—consider including it in your session. Just make sure props don’t overshadow the main focus: you and your partner.

Adding meaningful props to your engagement photos can make the session more personal and memorable. These brings an extra layer of emotion and authenticity to your photos, making them even more special and unique.

Keep Hair and Makeup Natural

You don’t have to go overboard, but a little effort in grooming can make a big impact. If you’re considering professional hair and makeup, schedule a trial run with your wedding stylist to see how it looks on camera.

Soft, glowing makeup and relaxed hair will enhance your features without overpowering the photo, allowing your natural beauty and connection to shine through.

Move Around and Have Fun

Natural moments often make for the best photos. Walk, dance, laugh, and interact with each other as you normally would. The less you focus on posing, the more genuine your photos will feel.

The more you enjoy the experience, the more relaxed and genuine your photos will look, capturing the true essence of your relationship. So, let loose and have fun – it will reflect in every shot!

Trust Your Photographer’s Direction

A professional photographer will know how to position you in the best light and angles. Even if some poses feel a little unusual, trust the process—they have an eye for what looks good in photos.

Trusting your photographer’s direction is key to getting the best shots during your engagement session.

Bring a Change of Outfits

Having a second outfit option can add variety to your gallery. Consider one casual and one more dressed-up look to give different styles to your photos.

Changing outfits also gives you the chance to create a contrast in your photos, whether you’re shooting in different locations or want to highlight different vibes. This extra effort adds depth to your photo collection and gives you more options to choose from when selecting your favorite images.

Keep It Simple

Overcomplicating things can make the session feel stressful. The focus should be on your connection rather than elaborate setups. A relaxed approach always leads to better results.

Avoid overly busy accessories or distracting elements that might take attention away from the moment. By keeping things simple, you allow the natural beauty of the surroundings and your relationship to shine,

Think About How You’ll Use the Photos

If you’re using your engagement photos for wedding-related items like invitations or a guest book, let your photographer know. They can shoot with those specific needs in mind.

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A post shared by By Kyla Studio ⋄ Toronto Events & Wedding Photographer (@bykylastudio)

When planning your engagement session, consider how you’ll use the photos after the shoot. Whether it’s for save-the-date cards, a wedding website, or display prints in your home, thinking about the final purpose can help guide your choices in styling, location, and outfits. By aligning the photo session with your vision, you’ll ensure the images not only look great but also serve the practical and sentimental purposes you have in mind for your wedding journey.

Concluding Statement

Your engagement session should feel like a fun and natural experience rather than a staged event. With the right planning, a great photographer, and a relaxed mindset, you’ll end up with images that reflect your relationship in the best way possible. Take your time, enjoy the process, and focus on celebrating this exciting chapter of your lives.

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