Tips for your engagement Photo Shoot

With so many couples getting engaged over the holidays, I wanted to take a moment to chat about engagement photos. As a wedding planner, I see lots of engagement photos from my couples.  Now, I’m not a photographer, so this post is not going to give you tips on posing.  As a planner and designer, however, I have seen some engagement photos that stand out to me above the rest, and here are three things that I recommend couples consider when planning their engagement photoshoot with their photographer:

1. Location, Location, Location.  Choose a place that represents you as a couple.  Whether it’s an open field on your family ranch, incredible manicured gardens at a local museum, or a building with stunning architecture - choose a place that is not only beautiful, but also a reflection of your love story. 
2. Dress Up.  Wear something that makes you feel good and feel special.  I love seeing couples dressing up more formally in their engagement photos (especially if your wedding is going to be more formal).
3. Get Hair and Makeup done.  Not necessary, but if, for instance, you have a wedding hair and make-up trial, line it up with the date of your engagement photos! 
4. Incorporate a fun, unique design element: carry a bouquet of flowers, set-up a cute picnic, bring a cute box for your ring, or...incorporate your favorite family horse!
5. Last, but probably the most important: Trust Your Photographer.  They are the professional, and they are going to give you advice and guide you through posing, where to shoot, time of day, the best lighting, etc.  I’ve found that when couples listen to their photographer and collaborate as a team to come up with a plan, the photos are always so incredible.​

Credits:
​Florist: Tyler Speier
Photographer: Amber Jean Photography