One of the first things my couples tell me when I meet them is that they’re awkward in front of a camera or they’re ‘not photogenic’. Here’s the thing: no one actually is! I am here to guide you through your engagement session and make you and your person look like rockstars. I will be there to guide you and I will step back when you two are just doing your thing. I decided to write this guide in order to relieve any worry and remind you that this experience is not stressful or scary! The reality is that these sessions will be so much FUN and are all about you and your person!

1. Shoot at golden hour

Golden hour happens about an hour and a half before the sun sets and is the best time of day to shoot in. This time of day makes everything look soft and glowy including you.

2. Want to spice up your photos? Bring flowers.

Whether you want to put together your own bouquet or purchase your own, florals are a beautiful touch to any photo and will add that extra pop of colour.

3. Nervous? Have a drink. Better yet, bring some champagne or your favourite beers!

We’re here to have fun, and there is nothing wrong with having a drink prior, or popping a bottle of bubbly while we are there makes for a great prop. If champagne isn’t your thing, bring two of your favourite beers!

4. Girls: do your wedding makeup trial!

There is nothing better than getting your makeup done and feeling like your best self while getting your photos taken! Use this opportunity to have your makeup trial done. Reminder that your hair down lets it flow freely, looking the best in photos!

5. Bring a bunch of outfit options + colour coordinate.

If you’re anything like me when picking out what to wear and can never decide, bring all of your options to the shoot and I will help pick what’s best depending on weather and location! I always recommend to colour coordinate; neutral colours go best together. I suggest bringing a casual outfit and a fancier one. Wear shoes you can run around in, and possibly get dirty depending on location. Girls: flowy dresses photograph beautifully! Try to stay away from stiff clothing that makes you uncomfortable or is hard to move in. I love all flat brim hats! You are also more than welcome to message me photos and I would love to help pick out your outfits!

6. Show up with an open mind and just be YOU!

My number one goal is to create a safe place where you and your person can just be yourself! It can be nerve-wracking having an intimate photo session done but I like to make things light-hearted and capture you for who you are. I’m not huge on stiff smiles, I love to find the perfect light and capture the environment for what it is.

7. Location

I want you to have photos that mean something – and part of that means that I want us to shoot in a place you connect with! My personal favourite place to take photos is an open field at golden hour. Think of it as a blank canvas where we can create all of the magic! I love natural and organic places where there is room to roam. I have my favourite location guide here but I am always open and down to explore anywhere. Do you have a favourite hike? Coffee shop? You name it and I am there. I want your photos to reflect who you are, this is all about you.

Those are all my best tips on how to have engagement photos you LOVE! Book an engagement session with me here