(Newswire.net — May 6, 2019) — Engagement photo sessions are a great opportunity to connect with clients before the big day. However, they’re very different from wedding photography. Engagement sessions are nothing close to the marathon of shooting the actual wedding so you have plenty of time to get to know the couple and set up poses. Your session will go smoothly if you have a plan. Here are a few engagement photo tips for photographers to remember on shoot day.
Engagement Photo Tips for Photographers
A few engagement photo tips for photographers include choosing a location, knowing what to wear, being able to handle the gear and more.
Choose a Location
When choosing a location, start by asking the couple if they have any ideas in mind or whether they’ve already chosen a location. You can help them narrow down on options by establishing the setting: such as a natural setting or maybe they’re looking for a downtown urban feel. Before settling on a location, due your due diligence and make sure you have permission to shoot at the location. Some spots require a fee or permit.
What to Wear
Many clients will probably ask you what they should wear for the session. An easy way to go about this is to start by considering the location. For instance, a nature trail will present challenges for a bride wearing a fancy pair of heels. The general rule of thumb is that darker colors minimize flaws while whites add weight.
The Gear
You want to keep your gear selection simple. Consider packing a field gear bag so you can have an easy time walking with the couple and avoid turning every spot you stop at into a large overwhelming production. More often than not, two or three lenses should suffice. Consider carrying a wide-angle lens for the background, a zoom lens for close ups and a macro lens for ring shots.
Give Direction
Prepare yourself with several poses. Start with basic positions so you can get to know how the couple interact as well as familiarize them with your style. Pay attention to details such as hand placements. If the couple is not comfortable with PDA, for example, encourage other ways of connection such as gazing into each other’s eyes and holding hands. It also helps to have some icebreakers and jokes prepared to help everyone loosen up.
Provide Variety
You may be unsure about some photo ideas but there’s no harm in trying new things. Don’t be afraid to break a few rules. This helps to set you apart from other photographers and showcase your style.
Find the Perfect Light
Look for the right light by scheduling engagement shoots one hour before sunset or an hour after sunrise. You may have no say over the lighting or timing on the wedding day, so the engagement session is your perfect opportunity to book your ideal shooting time. If you’re unable to get the ideal shooting time, practice new lighting techniques.
Bottom Line
Engagement sessions are a great way to showcase your signature style and capture beautiful portraits. Enjoy the shoot and build rapport with the couple. With these engagement photo tips for photographers, you can look forward to a successful shoot.