Most of us know the feeling. Having a camera pointed at you is STRESSFUL. No matter if it’s a polaroid, phone, or professional, it feels daunting to have someone take your photo. At least it is for me. And I always strive to give people what I would want during a session- Great photos where I look great and that truly capture me and my partner. Whelp friends, I want to help you make the most out of your engagement session! So here are a few of my go-to pieces of advice for anyone preparing for their engagement session!
- Choose a meaningful location. I think location holds so much power. I always encourage my clients to think of where they love to be together or what backdrop represents them best. Taking photos in the hills where you grew up is so much more meaningful than on a beautiful hotel lawn. Did you get engaged in Flagstaff? How fun would it be to do a downtown engagement session?! I mean, being an Arizona wedding photographer is kind of like cheating in the location department. You drive 2 hours in any direction and literally get breathtaking backdrops that are vastly different. From the luxe Royal Palms, to a cacti covered hill, to the pine trees and aspens! Simply think of your backdrop and I’ll tell you all of my favorite spots from there!
2. Be yourself. I can’t tell you how many times I fake-put-my-camera-down just to see what my clients do. Photographers are incredibly observant creatures. As soon as I meet you, I am noticing all of the little things you do with each other to put one another at ease. THAT’S what I want to capture. Do you always kiss her nose? I want to document that for you! Do you kiss her shoulder when she’s being silly? Yes please! It puts you both at ease and really translates to your authentic relationship in your engagement photos.
3. Trust me. Photography is a give and take. I can only document what you are willing to show me. And I want to give you my very best. Really. I want to leave every session thinking it’s the best I’ve ever done. What makes my creative juices extra juicy? When my clients let their guards down and trust that I am creating unique and stunning imagery for them. Yes, I want to know what you like- please tell me! I love when you ask me to take a certain photo. But this dramatic photo above would not have happened if Kaitlyn and Zev didn’t want and help me create a powerful photo. It takes a little extra time and posing, but it’s so worth it!
4. I’ll leave you with this nugget- make sure you truly like your photographer! With so many incredible photographers out there with so many varying styles in shooting and editing- it’s important that you love their work AND like being around them. After all, you want to have fun and feel relaxed on your wedding day. Make sure your photographer is in your corner and ready to do whatever it takes to document your wedding day incredibly!
Here’s me photographing a wedding in Lake Tahoe! I wish you all the best in whichever wedding photographer you choose!
