Engagement Photos “How to Prepare for the Outdoors”

Lights, camera, action! It’s time for your engagement photos! 

For you and your soon-to-be, this may be your first time getting professional photos done together. It can be intimidating, and let’s face it, a little awkward. My job as your wedding and engagement photographer is to make sure you’re comfortable throughout the entire process. This day should be fun and exciting! I want to bring out the best in you and your sweetheart and capture your relationship at this moment in time. 

So the question is: how to prepare for your engagement photoshoot? Continue reading for 5 tips on how to get camera-ready and prepare for your outdoor engagement photos.

Engagement Photos – Details

Before you run out to the nearest national park, plan the details of your engagement photoshoot. First things first, what are these photos going to be used for? Many couples choose to share these photos on social media as a way to announce their engagement. Others may want to use these photos in the Save The Date cards. If you’re looking to use these photos for any card or invitations, I suggest planning the photoshoot at least 4 months in advance. This will give you lots of time for photo selection, editing and design, plus printing and delivery. 

Keep in mind that the time of year will dictate the type of photos we can take, as well as location options. If you’re in the Denver, Colorado area, I know of some great options. Want the snowy Alpine Mountains as your backdrop? We’ll have to wait until winter for that when we can visit Brainard Lake Recreation Area for the perfect snowscape. Is a peaceful, lazy river atmosphere more your vibe? Then summer is a great time to visit the Platte River Fort in Greeley, Colorado. 
As we get closer to the date of your engagement photoshoot, we’ll keep track of the weather. The more we know about the day of your photoshoot, the better prepared we’ll be. We’ll also discuss the time of day to take your photos. The lighting will dictate the look, feel, and mood of your photos. I recommend 1-2 hours after sunrise, or 1-2 hours before sunset for the best lighting.

What to Wear for Your Engagement Photos

Do you want to know the secret behind amazing engagement photos? It’s not looking good–it’s feeling good. I know, it’s a cliché, but it’s so true! Our behavior and attitude can absolutely be influenced by what we wear and how comfortable we feel in our clothes. If you’re not totally comfortable with what you’re wearing then you won’t be comfortable in front of the camera. 

So, how do you choose what to wear for your engagement photoshoot? Consider these tips:

• Wear something familiar. New pieces of clothing may not sit right on you or may irritate your skin. Go with something tried and true!
• Location and weather appropriate. Think of where you’ll be taking your photos and plan accordingly. You also want to choose the right kind of footwear for the terrain.
• Avoid loud prints, logos, and bright colors. These can be distracting in photos, and we want to focus all our attention on YOU!
• Complement your partner. Try not to match exactly with your sweetheart. Instead, find patterns and colors that go well together.

We can discuss the color palettes of your wardrobe as well–this will ensure everything is cohesive and complementary. You may also want to consider bringing a few options on the day of your photoshoot. Not only for a variety of looks, but you get wet, muddy, or sandy, depending on the location. I have your back I want you to feel more then prepared with your wardrobe so don’t forget to check my “What to wear Guide”

How to Accessorize

Many couples decide to get their hair and makeup done for their engagement photoshoot. If that speaks to you, go for it! But keep in mind that an outdoor engagement photoshoot will most likely affect styled hair and glam makeup. My recommendation? Keep things simple and natural. We are photographing you in nature, after all! And if you’re dying to add a little somethin’ somethin’ to your photoshoot, there are plenty of options. 

Incorporate outerwear and accessories–such as jackets, scarves, and hats–into your wardrobe. These elements can add another dimension to your photos and really make you pop. If there’s a particular accessory you’re not sure will work, let me know and we can chat more about using it in your photos. 
Props are another option for adding an extra element to your engagement photos. There are many types of photoshoot props and where to find them. Common props are floral arrangements and bouquets, along with furniture or picnic settings. These props should be easy to carry, in case we’re traveling a bit to reach the photoshoot location. More importantly, include props that are meaningful and special to you and your relationship.

Prioritize Your Level of Comfort

Unless you’re a professional model and work in front of a camera every day, going into your engagement photoshoot can be stressful! I get it, standing and posing in front of the camera is not natural, at all! That’s why I make it a point to work with each couple to make them as comfortable as possible. I aim to capture real moments, full of laughter, love, and excitement. If that means bringing some speakers and having impromptu dance breaks, I’m all for it! Need some snacks to keep the energy flowing, let’s dive into that snack bag! Any way to make you comfortable, I’m here to support you.

Here are a few ideas to help destress and ease into your engagement photoshoot: 

• Double-check details with your photographer (that’s me!). Contact me if you have any questions or concerns leading up to your photoshoot. 
• Prepare your wardrobe and props. Lay your clothes out the night before and pack any extra options and props in your car before you go to bed. 
• Give yourself ample travel time. No one wants to rush in traffic to the photoshoot location. Plan ahead and take into account the traffic and time of day you’re traveling. 
• Take a day off before your photoshoot. If you’re feeling a little overwhelmed or stressed, maybe think about taking time off from work if you can. Give yourself the time you need to have the best photoshoot!

Be kind to yourself, and your partner. Remember to be respectful of each other during this time. Encourage one another and look forward to sharing this experience with them!

What to Expect on the Day of Your Photoshoot

As your engagement photographer, I want to provide you with enough information and insight into what to expect on the day of your photoshoot. If at any time you feel stressed, uncomfortable, or want to stop, the best thing you can do is to let me know. This day is for you and your partner to celebrate your engagement. These engagement photos are a reflection of your relationship and this special time in your life. It should be full of excitement and joy!
On the day of your engagement photoshoot, be open to taking some direction once we arrive at the location. It may feel weird to hug your partner or kiss them as I take your photos, but trust me, it will all work out in the end! Also, know that the true magic of engagement photography happens during those in-between moments that aren’t posed or planned. I love capturing couples in their true forms–completely in tune with one another and the love they share.

Get Ready for Your Engagement Photoshoot

Planning your engagement photoshoot can be fun and exciting if you’re open and willing to do it! It doesn’t matter what time of year it is. Or what you plan to wear. Or what you’re using these photos for. Your engagement photos are a look into this stage of your life as you prepare for the next chapter of this journey together. Let them be a reflection of your relationship and the love you have for each other.