ongratulations on your engagement! You've taken the first step towards a lifetime of love, laughter, and (hopefully) not too many awkward family photos. Speaking of photos, it's time to start thinking about your engagement shoot now that you're engaged.
Before you panic and start googling "how to smile naturally in photos," take a deep breath and read on for some helpful tips on how to make the most of your engagement photo shoot:
Preparing for the photoshoot
First things first: what the heck are you going to wear? Don't worry, you don't have to match your partner perfectly (unless you want to, in which case, more power to you). Just choose coordinating colors and styles that complement each other. And if you're unsure about what to wear, just think about the location of the shoot and the season. For example, if you're shooting in a field of wildflowers, you might want to wear something flowy and romantic (or at least not a t-shirt with a giant ketchup stain).
As for your hair and makeup, go with what makes you feel comfortable and confident. If you usually wear minimal makeup, that's fine. But if you're the type of person who can't resist a bold lip or smoky eye, go for it! Just don't forget to bring touch-up products with you to the shoot in case you get a little shiny or your lipstick starts to fade (because, let's face it, no one wants to look like they just finished a marathon in their engagement photos).
Regarding location, consider the time of day, lighting, and background. Soft, natural light is usually the most flattering, so early morning or late afternoon may be the best time for your shoot. And if you're feeling adventurous, why not try shooting in a location that's meaningful to you, like the coffee shop where you first date or the park where you got engaged? Just make sure it's not too crowded (or stinky) if you want to avoid strangers photobombing your big moment.
Posing and expression
Let's be honest: posing for photos can be awkward, especially if you need to get used to it. But the good news is that you don't have to be a supermodel to look great in your engagement photos. Just focus on your partner and the love you share, and try to relax and have fun.
Regarding posing, it's all about finding what works for you. Work with your photographer to find natural poses that highlight your connection. And if you need help with what to do with your hands (or your face, for that matter), feel free to ask for guidance. Just try to avoid stiff or posed poses that don't feel authentic, and don't be afraid to laugh, hug, or show affection in the photos.
In addition to your poses, your facial expressions and body language can convey a lot of emotion in the photos. So if you're feeling a little nervous or uncomfortable, just remember to smile and look at your partner with love and affection (not like you're about to get a root canal).
Working with your photographer
Your engagement photo shoot is an excellent opportunity to get to know your photographer and establish a relationship before your wedding day. Make sure to communicate with your photographer about your vision for the photos and any specific poses or locations you have in mind. And if you're feeling a little shy or awkward, feel free to ask for direction or guidance from your photographer. They are there to help you get the best results and capture the most beautiful photos possible. Trust their expertise and have fun with the process.
Congratulations again on your engagement! Your photo shoot is a chance to celebrate your love and capture memories you'll cherish for years. Just remember to relax, have fun, and be yourself. And if you're feeling awkward, don't worry – that's completely normal. Just focus on your partner and the love you share, and let your photographer guide you through the process.
If you're looking for a photographer to capture your engagement photos, consider hiring John Kornegay Photography. With years of experience and a passion for capturing beautiful, authentic moments, John and his team will help you create lasting memories of this special time in your life. Contact John Kornegay Photography today to schedule your engagement photo shoot and start planning your dream wedding!
