Tuesday's Tip #5: Engagement Photos

Planning a wedding is a large task within itself. Couples often overlook engagement photos, although they become the image of your love together. Here are some tips to help ease the process and help get the most out of your photographs!

To begin, it is important to research photographers. Each photographer has a different style and you want to be sure they capture you and your fiancé's relationship best. Think about the theme you want to convey, whether its vintage, romantic, or funny. Search through photographers websites and blogs to help decide what fits the both of you best.

Next comes choosing the location. Your photographer will have some ideas, but you may want to choose the spot you first met, or the place holds the most memories. You may even want to choose a location that suits your theme. Drive around and observe the sunlight and the shaded areas. Photos also look great with textured backgrounds.

Deciding what to wear for your photographs may be daunting as well. Remember, you want to be in an outfit that you are comfortable in and something you feel confident in. Avoid too many patterns and outfits with graphics on them. You want to display your love not your clothing. You can also choose to have your hair, nails, and make up done. You want to look natural, but you also want be defined on camera. If you are not comfortable doing your own, look locally for an experts help. 

Relax! It's important to remember you're showing your love. Have fun and go with the flow. The best photographs are those that are candid. Pretend it's a date, laugh, dance, smile! When the moment is right, kiss. Smaller kisses are better because they do not appear 'fake.' Keep it light and avoid making pucker faces. Don't focus to much on the camera. Posing may be awkward at first too, but your photographer will help you through this process. Let the motions be natural, and you can always speak up if something does not feel right. When in doubt smile at each other and have fun. Props are an option as well. Think back to your theme for some ideas such as, flowers, balloons, wine, scramble letters, or instruments. You can also think about hobbies that may make good props like your dog or football jerseys. Don't be afraid to step outside of the box and act childish. Your photographer will get creative and be able to produce wonderful shots that represent most importantly you as a couple. The best part is, you and your fiancé are in this together, you're not alone.