EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT ENGAGEMENT PHOTOS

Are you wanting to schedule an engagement session but need a little help with the planning part? I’m a St. Charles Missouri wedding photographer, so I have plenty of advice! I remember getting engaged. It was a wonderful time in my life, but I do remember feeling overwhelmed with all of the decisions I had to make soon after. Here’s a quick tip: take time to enjoy your engagement before stressing about the wedding planning! Now, you may be thinking “but planning is the fun part”, and if thats the case then I am so happy for you. I wish I loved planning my own wedding, but at the time it all just felt like a lot because I knew nothing about weddings or the vendors near me. Now that I am an expert in all things weddings, I love to help new brides figure it all out. In this article I am going to discuss what you need to know for your engagement photos! When to schedule them, what to wear and even how to chose a location. So let’s dive in!

When You Should Schedule Your Engagement Session

Your engagement photos probably feel like your first step out into the spotlight as an engaged couple. They are also one of the most exciting parts of the wedding planning process because you get to hang out with and cuddle up to your favorite person all while getting some pretty memories you can print and hang up on your wall. They are also a perfect way to get comfortable in front of the camera and get a feel for how your wedding photographer works with you. You can get to know their shooting style and just have fun with them! Also, I said “wedding” photographer because most wedding photographers offer complimentary engagement sessions in their wedding packages, so that is something to look out for when you are searching for a photographer.

So, when should you schedule your engagement session? Probably within a couple months of getting engaged. That way you can use the photos for your save-the-dates and invitations. Do keep in mind that it’s industry standard for it to take a few weeks to have your photos edited. Then you will need to have them printed which probably takes a couple weeks as well. So having your engagement photos taken within that two month time frame is a good plan.

You should also keep in mind the weather. Don’t let cold weather stop you from scheduling your engagement photos! A session shot in January can be just as beautiful as one shot in the spring. It really just depends on the type of style and vibe you are going for. Below are some pictures from a session I shot in late January. It was a Valentines Rooftop mini session! It was pretty chilly, but the photos turned out perfect! I love the whole city vibe and I think it can work well in any weather. The arch in the background of these is just perfect!

What You Should Wear for Your Engagement Photos

You should wear whatever makes you feel comfortable, but more importantly whatever makes you feel like you. Avoid crisp or starchy clothes that make you feel constricted or overly formal. Stay away from blazers or business-wear. You want a comfortable, cozy, fun version of you! At all costs, avoid athletic wear, gym clothes or gym shoes. If logos or branding are bigger than a quarter, try to look for something else without any branding or words on it. Stay away from trendy patterns and bright neon colors. I always recommend neutrals and earthy-toned colors that visually fit into the natural earthy surroundings you will be in. You want to avoid the bright and aggressive colors and tones that just don’t look like they belong in a natural setting because they will stand out like a sore thumb and will end up looking out of place in the final photo. When it comes to color, you do want to stand out from your surroundings, but still look like you belong there. That said, One or two pops of color pair nicely with neutrals everywhere else.

How to Choose Where Your Engagement Session Will Be

First decide what style you want your photos to have. Do you like the city or rooftop vibe like the photos I showed above? Or do you like a more earthy, forest-like style? If you aren’t sure, think about how you like to dress. What is your clothing style? If you tend to dress more edgy maybe the city vibe would feel more like you. You should think about who you are and what would feel like you. It’s important that the photos really bring out your personality as a couple. If you still need help thinking of a location for your engagement session, you can always ask your photographer for help. Photographers love to help pick out locations and will most likely know of multiple options!

Are you looking for a St. Charles Missouri wedding photographer?

St. Charles is one of my favorite cities, especially for photos, so I would love to help. If you want to see more of my work, check out this engagement session below! If you want to see some weddings I’ve shot head over to my blog or portfolio page!