Make the Most of Your Engagement Session

I love engagement sessions. Nothing is more fun or more inspiring that spending a few hours with a cool couple roaming the streets of a cool city with a big cool camera!

Some people ask why we include engagement sessions with every wedding that we photograph, and the answer is simple. We're selfish. We love creating beautiful images for our couples, and the engagement session gives Jeff and me a chance to learn how every one of our couples photographs the best. And not only do we learn about them, but they become comfortable in front of our two huge cameras months before the nervousness of the wedding day.

We get tons of questions about engagement sessions, so I thought I would share openly what I share with all of our couples.

1. Look Hot

You officially have my permission to look as hot as you possibly can. Yes, you get to go shopping and, yes, you have a really good excuse! If someone objects, just bat those cute little eyelashes and mention that these photos are documenting the most meaningful time in your life, and they are going to last forever and forever. Because they will. For us, the wedding day is about capturing your love story, and the engagement session documents a very special part of that story. And someday your kids will have proof that you were (and always will be) a smokin' hot couple!

2. Wear Cute Shoes

Again, this is your official excuse to go out and purchase those fabulous and totally irrational pair of Manolos that would complete that fantasy shoe closet that I know is in the back of your mind. We love to photograph cute shoes, and we love to photograph the attitude in a girl when she's rockin' those cute shoes!

And that goes for guys too.

3. Bring a Prop

We love when couples get creative and bring along a prop that is significant to their relationship. Whether it be a bike, hat, kayak, skateboard, surfboard, or even your cars! Anything goes as long as it is creative and significant. This allows us to have fun and show your true personalities.

4. Work those Eyes

When thinking about your makeup for your engagement session, keep in mind that your eyes will be your most significant feature. Our cameras are always focused on your eyes, and we want them to pop - especially those eyelashes. Take extra care to lengthen and separate your lashes and use a quality eyeliner. If you don't feel confident, consider getting your makeup done by a professional. This could be a great opportunity to get to know your makeup artist for the wedding and maybe even hold a trial run for your wedding day makeup.

5. Smile Everywhere

Because Jeff and I shoot every engagement session together, we have the chance to capture unique, candid moments that are difficult for one primary shooter to capture alone. While one of us is directing the couple, the other can find creative angles that tell your love story just as much as the primary shot. Keep the details in mind when you're planning your outfits. PS We love cute smiley toes, so treat yourself to a pedicure!

6. Be in Love

The engagement session is about your love story, so there is absolutely nothing you can do wrong! All you have to do is have fun, be in love, and we'll take care of the rest...

Hugs,
Erin