Words & images by Amanda Karen Photography
Most couples we photograph have never planned a wedding before and have no idea what to expect, the same can be said for having their photograph taken professionally. Of course, we have all had photos taken on nights out, family trips out and probably love the odd selfie, but it’s very different being in front of a professional lens! And whilst lots of people have food tastings, dress fittings, practice speeches and may have a rehearsal dinner, they don’t think about practicing for their portraits. And that’s exactly what an engagement shoot is, it’s your dry run.
Your engagement shoot is the best time for you to practice being in front of the camera, really get to understand what it’s like being photographed by your chosen wedding photographer and to see how awesome the results are. Plus you get gorgeous images of the two of you to put up in your home, use as save the dates or even as your table plan.
But how do you prepare for your engagement shoot and make the most of it…..
Before the shoot:
- Make sure you’re hydrated, so the day before drink plenty of water as this makes sure your skin is looking great and your eyes sparkling.
- Get a good night’s sleep the night before your shoot, I want you to be well rested.
- Please let me know if you have any physical concerns or something about your body you’re particularly sensitive about, I want you to be as relaxed and comfortable as can be.
Clothes and makeup
- Take time doing your hair and makeup for your shoot, keep it naturally you and don’t forget your nails as these are likely to be in some of the shots (got to show off that gorgeous ring after all!)
- You could bring a couple of outfit choices, but please keep in mind if you are outside on location that we will need to find somewhere comfortable for you to change.
- Think about your clothing in terms of colour palettes rather than everything matching in the same colour. If you are outside in a rural location, I would suggest avoiding green and brown clothing as I don’t want you to blend into the background. Solid colours look great rather than large logos or narrow stripes.
- This is a time for dressing up and feeling great, so think first date outfits rather than slouch pants and a hoody!
- The same goes for the guys, you don’t want to be in matching outfits, but colours that complement each other rather than the clashing of colours is perfect. Again, hands may be in shot, so clean nails are always a bonus!
On the day itself
- Trust your photographer, they will work their magic and make sure that you are in the best light with a gorgeous backdrop and that you will feel completely relaxed in front of the camera.
We feel that engagement shoots are a really important part of the wedding planning process, which is why we include them in all of our collections. I would really recommend arranging one with your wedding photographer.
Until next time,
Amanda x
Contact & Bookings: Amanda Karen Photography
www.amandakarenphotography.co.uk
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what do you think?