How to Prepare for your Engagement Session
Everything you need to know to nail your engagement session! We’ll be taking about everything from how to prepare, choosing time + location to what to wear for your session.
HOW TO PREPARE
Your engagement session should be fun! Treat it like a date day, plan to go out for lunch/dinner before or after the session to make the most of it. If you’re going out before, a shot of tequila may calm the nerves. ;)
You may want to take advantage of getting your hair & makeup trial done also! Why not make the most of it and pamper yourself the day of?!
Always make sure you book something like this well in advance, especially during summer and fall months. A good idea would be to book when you book your engagement session.
TIMING
If you don't already know, lighting can make a HUGE difference in how your photos turn out. It can change a photo from feeling dull to romantic and cozy.
In my opinion, the two best times to do photos are golden hour (1 - 1.5 hours before sunset) and sunrise (1-1.5 hours after sunrise).
Sunset light can give off a warm, romantic, glowy feel without you having to worry about squinty eyes. Sunrise is also a great time because the light is usually very soft and even, making you and your partner look great!
WHAT TO WEAR
Pick your outfits out ahead of time so that you wake-up feeling stress free the morning of. This is important. Do NOT depend on the day of to run around figuring out what you want to wear. It is a recipe for disaster.
Pick something you feel GOOD in. If you don't usually wear it and feel "okay" in it, it probably isn't the best option for you. The last thing you want to worry about during your session is how you look in an outfit you aren't comfortable in.
If you’re planning on wearing patterns, try to keep it simple. Less is more sometimes.
Neutrals are usually a safe choice, regardless of which location you choose. Overly bright colours will draw attention to your clothing as opposed to the most important thing: YOU.
Lastly, bring something to personalize your photos!! A blanket is always nice if the weather permits and if you want to bring a bottle of champagne or your favourite meal, that’s a fun idea too. Doing something during your session will instantly calm your nerves and make things a little more laid back and fun!
LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION
When it comes to picking a location, my number 1 recommendation is to choose a place that is meaningful to you, or a place that you enjoy. For example, if you and your partner often walk a specific trail in the summers - that would be a great place to start for photos.
If you don’t have a location that is meaningful to you, check out my Top 5 Locations for Engagement Photos in the GTA.
TORONTO WEDDING + ELOPEMENT PHOTOGRAPHER BASED IN TORONTO, ONTARIO.