Wedding photos are a significant milestone, so, why not have an engagement photoshoot to capture these memories too? They make a great addition to any wedding album, telling the story from the beginning. Furthermore, they also make a great addition to Save The Dates. This article will talk you through all the steps and tips for the perfect engagement photoshoots. 

Create an Engagement photoshoot Moodboard 

One of the best ways to search for what you want from your engagement photoshoots is to look to previous shoots for inspiration. Pinterest can be an excellent tool for this. Build up a mood board of colour schemes and also potential locations for your engagement shoot. You can create separate sections in one board using Pinterest, which means you can organise areas like colour schemes, possible outfits, poses and locations. 

Choose a photographer for your engagement photoshoot

Engagement photoshoots also allow for a sort of test run for your big day; think about using the same photographer for both events. It will enable you to get to know your photographer better and see if they’re the right fit for your Wedding. Not only does it allow for a test run, but it also means that your photographer will understand you better as a couple and ensure that your photos reflect that. 

Make a plan 

One of the best ways to begin making choices for your shoot is by selecting a venue. This way, you can start planning everything else around this location. 

Planning: Location

The location of your engagement photoshoot is entirely up to you; there is no right or wrong place to take engagement photos. You could keep it simple by taking these photos in the spot where the proposal happened; however, often, this can be difficult, perhaps this place is abroad or in a place you can’t travel to for photos. Alternatively, the location could be a place special to you as a couple. 

Here is a list that might help you choose:

• The spot where you first met 
• Your favourite place to visit as a couple
• Where you had your first date 
• Your wedding venue 

The location of your engagement photoshoot doesn’t have to hold special meaning either; it could just be a beautiful backdrop. Look into nature reserves or botanical gardens nearby; there are plenty of Facebook groups and webpages online to see what’s nearby to you. 

If you plan to shoot somewhere you haven’t been before, it is a good idea to visit the location beforehand to find spots you like best and ensure it is well suited.

Planning: What to wear

Always have options. Sometimes things don’t go to plan; this could be because of weather, lighting, or even wardrobe malfunctions. Bring a couple of outfit options with you on the day of the engagement photoshoot. It’s essential to wear something you’re comfortable and feel good wearing. Your confidence will shine through in the photos and allow for a more natural shoot. You’ll want to dress cohesively with your significant other, decide on what sort of vibe you want to go for, whether it be casual or smart. Think about what truly reflects you as a couple. 

Another thing to consider is hair and makeup; you can create a mood board for these if it’s something important to you. Decide between doing hair and makeup yourself or hiring a stylist. If you’re doing it yourself, ensure that you’re comfortable, don’t attempt anything outside your comfort zone unless you’re practising beforehand. When hiring a stylist, make sure that you’ve done a trial run and are happy with the results before moving forward. 

Planning: Poses

Try out different poses before the shoot with your significant other. Make a mood board of potential poses. Your photographer will be there to guide you on the day, but it makes things a lot easier to know what you want out of the shoot beforehand and that you’re comfortable posing in front of a camera. 

Once taken, your engagement photoshoot is a great tool. Not only are they a beautiful addition to the wedding photo album. They can be utilised as a part of your save-the-date favours, wedding invitations and announcements, and decor on the special day. 

Looking for advice on your wedding photography or photoshoots? Read more here.