Yay YAY YAYYY!!! You’re Engaged!
Congratulations on getting engaged! This is such an exciting time for you both! Although it’s been 13 years, It feels like yesterday that my husband Steve and I were preparing to get married. There was no Pinterest back then and I had no idea where to even start!! I want to help you as best I can as you plan and prepare for the celebration of your vows and marriage. First off, let me help you know what to expect at your engagement session.
I really value the time I have with my couples at their engagement session. It’s a more relaxed and natural way for us to get to know each other. I get to see your personalities as individuals and as a couple and it really helps photographs to go smoothly on the wedding day. The session will be about and hour long. I will meet you there and let you get comfortable before I start directing you. I am a bit introverted and understand how uncomfortable it can be behind a camera. By the end of the session you all will be pros and that’s when some of my favorite photos are taken. I actually won’t do a lot of poses, but more guided prompts that will showcase genuine emotions that are unique to you both.
First
Let’s come up with a location that fits you all as a couple. This could be a woodsy adventurous hike, a stroll downtown, a coffee shop date or dance in the field! I love trying new locations, especially if they hold a special meaning for you both, but I do have a few suggestions in the Louisville area up my sleeve if you just aren’t sure!
Second
Plan out what you want to wear. Some couples like to do an outfit change, if you have two outfits, save your favorite one for the second half of the session.
I always encourage the woman to find her perfect outfit first and then base the guy’s clothing off of that.
Stick to a color palette of three or four complimentary colors
Layers are flattering and a way to show personality (i.e. jewelry, hats, suspenders, lace, vests, fitted sports jacket)
Wear clothing that makes you feel confident but is also comfortable. Choosing an outfit that flatters your silhouette is key.
Stick with more muted colors and avoid large distracting patterns, overly bright or neon colors, thin stripes, trendy characters, or logos on clothes
Don’t forget to clean your ring (a jeweler will do it for free!) and manicure fingernails (because we want close ups of that ring!)
Flowy dresses and skirts ALWAYS photograph well because it brings lovely movement to the photos!
Wanna bring a little pizzaz to your session? Try bringing a floral bouquet! Believe me, it’s stunning in photos.
Consider doing your wedding day makeup and hair trial the day of your session (just make sure to add buffer time if this is right before pictures)
Ladies, if you are wearing heels, make sure to bring some comfy flats for comfortable walking in between spots.
LAstly After your Session
After your session, consider planning a dinner date! Why not take advantage of the fact that you are all dressed up? I did this recently with my husband. We had a mini-photo session then did a coffee date after and it was sooo nice (especially since we already had sitters!) You will receive your professionally edited online gallery no more than two weeks after your session. I also usually post a few sneak peeks before then on social media and tag my couples, so make sure to follow along on socials.
Ready to do this??
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