Are you getting excited for your upcoming photo session? I know I am! I wanted to share some tips with you to make sure we are all on the same page, and that ultimately I can create beautiful photographs for you.
Location is SO important for your session, and also a chance to have some really unique, story-telling photos. If you have a beautiful place in mind that means a lot to you, that is a great option! Otherwise, I have lot’s of ideas as well depending on what kind of feel you like. I do lean towards more natural settings, or more simple & clean spaces (I have beautiful, natural light studios as an option as well), so that the photos again have a timeless approach. Just let me know what you are envisioning and we will go from there! My goal is to showcase your relationships, wherever that may be. Do you love exploring the mountains together? Are you looking for more of a cozy indoor studio vibe? Do you have a favourite park where you all spend time together? These backdrops can be beautiful options for your photo session. Also, if the weather is not looking ideal, I am happy to reschedule as soon as we can.
As a natural-light photographer, I typically like to photograph in the late afternoon for the best light, so the sun dictates how long I can photograph you. An average shoot lasts approx. 1 hour...if you show up 30 minutes late, the session unfortunately cannot be extended. I just want to let you know in advance so we can have the BEST photo session, and beautiful light! I want your photographs to really capture who you are, so feel free to bring anything along that might be meaningful to you. If you want to bring a blanket for some cuddling photos or to sit on, that is a great option, or accessories to tell your story. Otherwise, you and your loved ones are the focus and that’s all we need. Hair and makeup being done is also very important as photography lightens our features, so adding a little more makeup (ladies) than every day wear can really make your features shine, but will still look natural in the photographs. It’s all about the details! Plus it’s fun to feel a little more fancy once in a while.
As for wardrobe, here are some tips as well. I strongly suggest using these guidelines, as this is how we can achieve my soft, romantic style. Bright, bold colours can reflect into your partners face and make them look that colour. No one wants to have a neon pink hue right? My photography style is ‘light and airy’, so soft, lighter colours will compliment my style perfectly. Some of my favourite colours to photograph are ivory, light grey, pastels, navy blue, blush, sage, and khaki. I also suggest not wearing black shirts specifically if you have lighter skin tones. If you’re like me, you love wearing black 99% of the time, but with my lighter photography style, it can look very stark against your face in contrast. If you have a rich, darker complexion, the darker tones and greys can be a beautiful option too. If you have a layering piece (cardigan, scarf etc.) to soften against high contrast options, that also looks great. Softer, natural or earth tones also ensure the focus is on your beautiful and handsome faces. But please bring options if you’d like, or if you have a specific vision! This is your photo session after all!
Ladies:
Think light, airy, pastels, natural earth tones, flowy, romantic, classic, timeless, and chic. Think of fabrics and colours that will really match with our location, the colours of the season, and your theme. Also bring some runners or comfy shoes so you can easily walk from one location to the next. Heels will be perfect for this shoot to make your legs look amazing, and give an elegant feeling to your images. Feel free to bring layers such as knits, a shawl or scarf, or additional outfit options if you would like my opinion on the day. Any styling items can give a soft romantic feel as well. I also suggest clean, polished nails that again are neutral in colour so they are not distracting.
Gentlemen:
Also think of natural fabrics and earthy or neutral colours that will compliment with your ladies outfit choices. You don’t necessarily have to match, just colours that are similar or complimentary in tones or shades. Classic styles, tailored pants, dressy shoes, and accessories. Just be yourself, and have fun with dressing up too! I want these to be photos you will be proud to have in your home. I bought my Husband a pair of simple dress shoes for our Engagement Session because he didn’t have any (he is the skateboarding, tradesman type so… understandable) and that small detail made our engagement photos look more put together and timeless.
If you as a group stick to about 3 or 4 colours, that can really look cohesive for the final results!
*Also, please make sure your choices have no logos or distracting patterns.
For some visual examples, here is my styling guide on Pinterest!
Finally, I want to make sure you know - you absolutely do not have to stress about posing or photo ideas. I will direct you the whole time so we can get natural looking, fun, and beautiful images. You just have to show up, let your personalities shine through, and have a great time!
As always – if you have any other questions just let me know! Otherwise, I will see you very soon. I can’t wait!