Your engagement photoshoot is not just a pre-wedding tradition, but a special opportunity to capture the essence of your relationship before the big day. By carefully choosing the right location, planning your outfits, and taking steps to make the session comfortable and enjoyable, you can ensure your engagement photos tell a beautiful story. Here’s a detailed guide on how to make the most of your session, with tips for choosing locations, outfits, and preparation.

1. Choosing the Perfect Location

The backdrop of your engagement photos should reflect your personality as a couple while adding visual beauty to the images. Consider these types of locations:

• Sentimental Locations: A place that holds special meaning to both of you—whether it’s where you got engaged, had your first date, or a favorite weekend spot—will infuse extra emotion into your photos​. This makes the photos even more personal and serves as a reminder of your shared history.
• Natural Landscapes: Nature offers dynamic and ever-changing backdrops, whether it’s a sun-dappled forest, a scenic beach, or a mountain range. If you’re an adventurous couple, shooting in such locations can add an element of wonder and romance. In Michigan, for example, spots like Sleeping Bear Dunes or down east, Belle Isle in Detroit, can create stunning visuals​.
• Urban Settings: For those who love the energy of the city, urban locations such as downtown streets, chic coffee shops, or iconic landmarks can give your photos an edgier, modern vibe. Think murals, vintage architecture, or even bustling markets.
• Seasonal Themes: Choose your session time based on the seasonal aesthetic that resonates with you. Fall foliage, spring blossoms, or a cozy winter shoot with snow can add depth and mood to your images​. The “golden hour”—the time just after sunrise or before sunset—provides soft, flattering light that creates a dreamy glow, perfect for engagement photos.
• Rely on your photographer: We can also chose a spot for you. Just let us know what setting resonates with you the most, and we will find the perfect spot.

2. Outfit Ideas and Planning

Your outfit choices are vital to how comfortable and confident you’ll feel during the session. Here are some guidelines to help you plan your wardrobe:

• Dress Comfortably Yet Stylishly: Choose clothing that makes you feel like the best version of yourself. Whether you’re more comfortable in casual jeans and a sweater or a more formal dress and suit, your outfit should reflect your personal style and comfort. Being uncomfortable will show in your photos​.
• Formal and Casual Options: Bring at least two outfits—one casual and one formal. A flowy dress or skirt adds movement to photos and can create a dreamy aesthetic, while casual outfits make for more relaxed and intimate shots​. Switching between two looks during your session allows for a variety of vibes in your final album.
• Coordinate Without Matching: Instead of matching outfits exactly, aim for complementary colors and tones. Neutral or muted palettes work well for almost any setting, while a pop of color can make your photos stand out. Avoid clashing prints or overly bold patterns that might distract from your faces or emotions​.
• Accessorize Thoughtfully: Small details like jewelry, watches, scarves, or hats can add personality to your photos. For example, if you’re outdoors, adding a stylish jacket or cozy scarf can also provide extra texture and layers to your outfits​. And don’t forget to clean your engagement ring—it will likely be a focal point of several shots.

3. Making the Most of the Session

Beyond looking great, it’s important to approach the session with a mindset focused on fun and connection. Here are some tips to help you relax and enjoy:

• Test Hair and Makeup: Consider scheduling your hair and makeup trial on the same day as your engagement shoot. This way, you’ll not only look your best but also get a sneak peek at how your wedding day style will photograph​. A professional hair and makeup session can boost your confidence and give your photos that polished, timeless look.
• Bring Props that Tell Your Story: While props aren’t necessary, incorporating meaningful items can add a personal touch. Whether it’s a picnic blanket, your favorite book, or even your pet, thoughtful props can make your photos feel more “you”​
• Relax and Be Yourselves: The best engagement photos capture genuine moments of connection between you and your partner. Try not to stress about being in front of the camera. The more relaxed and natural you are, the more your true connection will shine through. Your photographer will guide you with posing and prompts to make you feel comfortable​
• Stay Hydrated and Well-Rested: To look and feel your best, make sure to stay hydrated and get a good night’s sleep before your session. Avoid too much caffeine or alcohol beforehand to prevent feeling jittery​

4. Posing and Working with Your Photographer

A professional photographer will guide you through poses, but practicing a few basic poses beforehand can help you feel more comfortable:

• Candid Moments Over Posed: While formal poses are important, don’t forget to include candid moments that capture your relationship’s personality. Walk together, laugh, or whisper to each other—these small interactions create genuine, emotion-filled photos​.
• Try Movement: Incorporating motion into your photos—whether it’s twirling your dress, walking hand in hand, or even a light jog—can add dynamism and energy to the images​.
• Practice Your Best Angles: Spend some time in front of a mirror or take a few photos at home to see what angles work best for both of you. That way, when you’re in front of the camera, you’ll have an idea of your favorite angles and poses​

By thoughtfully planning your location, outfits, and overall approach to the session, you’ll have a fun and memorable engagement photoshoot. This will not only result in stunning photos to cherish but will also help you and your partner get comfortable in front of the camera before your big day.

Things NOT to Do for an Engagement Photoshoot

While preparing for an engagement session, there are a few common pitfalls you’ll want to avoid to ensure the photos turn out as beautifully as possible. Here’s a list of things not to do during your shoot:

1. Don’t Wear Uncomfortable Clothing

Even if you love how an outfit looks, if it’s uncomfortable, it will show in your photos. Avoid anything too tight, itchy, or restrictive. Comfort is key for natural, relaxed poses​

2. Don’t Choose Overly Trendy Outfits

While it might be tempting to follow the latest fashion trend, avoid choosing something so trendy that it will look outdated in a few years. Stick to classic, timeless styles that you’ll still love when you look back at your photos decades from now​

3. Don’t Match Outfits Exactly

While coordinating is great, matching head-to-toe in identical outfits can look too staged. Instead, aim for complementary colors or patterns that work well together without being too “matchy-matchy”​

4. Don’t Ignore the Weather

Always check the weather forecast and prepare accordingly. Bringing a jacket or layers is essential if you’re shooting in a place where the weather might change. Also, avoid wearing inappropriate seasonal clothing—such as a summer dress in a chilly, fall setting​

5. Don’t Overdo Props

Props can add a fun, personal touch to your session, but don’t bring too many or overly gimmicky items. Props should enhance the experience, not distract from the emotion and connection between you and your partner​

6. Don’t Overthink Poses

It’s natural to feel a little awkward at first, but don’t overthink your poses. Trust your photographer to guide you. Over-planning how you’re going to stand or smile can result in stiff, unnatural photos. Relax and let things flow​

7. Don’t Forget About Grooming

Make sure your hair, makeup, and nails are all photo-ready. You don’t want to look back at your photos and regret that you forgot to trim your nails or style your hair properly​

8. Don’t Arrive Unprepared

Avoid showing up to the session without proper rest or hydration. Looking tired or dehydrated will impact your overall appearance and energy. Get a good night’s sleep before the shoot and drink plenty of water to feel and look your best​

9. Don’t Show Up Late

Respect the time of your photographer and keep to the schedule, especially if you’re shooting during a specific window like the golden hour. Late arrivals may mean missing out on the best lighting​

10. Don’t Stress About Perfection

Engagement photos are about capturing your unique connection, not perfection. Don’t stress if everything isn’t absolutely flawless, and embrace small imperfections as part of the fun. Natural, candid moments often turn out to be the best

Learn more about us and our process today by reaching out at www.promaniweddings.com