You’re Engaged!! Now what?
First, congratulations! Before we jump into planning your engagement session, lets not skip the part where you or your loved one got down on one knee and you both agreed to doing with life each other! That is so exciting and it deserves it’s moment…… okay, amazing!
Getting Started
Maybe you’re super ambitious and ready to get started with planning your engagement session! I’ve got you, here is how I walk all of my couples through planning the most authentic and romance filled engagement session.
Pick Your Location for Said Engagement Photos
Now, you don’t want just ANY location but its far more simple to select a space than you probably think. Heads up, all these photos are from the Engagement Session of my clients dreams! You’ll see the stunning Pigeon Point Lighthouse in the background and the gorgeous coastal cliffs but if this isn’t your vibe have no fear, you can find the perfect location just for you!
The easiest way to select the best location for your images is to look inward. Where do you and your partner like to visit most? Any special locations that hold value, memory, or represent a significant time in your lives?
Okay, if not I have the cure for that too! What kind of location have you always wanted to visit? The Red Woods? Golden Gate Bridge? Lake Tahoe? Yosemite? If that still doesn’t get the dials turning think about something you’d love to do! No one says your engagement session has to be in a national park! Maybe the best location is at a carnival, go carting, the bowling alley! Heck, maybe you just want a cozy in home session because you’re the cuddle up on the couch type. The options are truly endless when it comes to location hunting but here is my biggest tip: plan your engagement session location to be something that represents you as a couple and offers you the most comfortability in your session!
Find a Photographer
So you have the location down, fantastic! Now, look around the area for photographers that you love and who may travel there, have previously shot there OR who may be local to the area! Get specific with this part. Half the battle of loving your engagement photos is finding a photographer that can tell your story but trust me talent is everywhere. Find someone you can connect with. PS: If you’re loving these engagement photos – I might just be your girl and I’d love to chat!
Things to consider when choosing a photographer:
-Editing Style
-How their images make you feel
-Location
-Price
-Most importantly: Your Connection With Them!
Planning Your Outfit for Your Engagement Session
This probably feels like the most daunting task but honestly, it’s the most fun! I always provide my clients with a style guide (you can get that for free here) but the main takeaway I offer in it is that you want to be able to see yourself in these images so regardless of any of this advice, showing up as your most authentic self is the best route to take!
If you want the free advice I’ve got you!
Think of the location and the colors it has to offer. You’ll want to dress in tones that compliment the area- not distract from it. So probably in most cases it’s safe to say this isn’t the day to wear any neons! Soft, neutral and natural solid colors photograph best in my personal opinion. The two of you should avoid matching! It doesn’t do what you think… its distracting. You can be in similar colors, maybe even the same colors but maybe skip the twinning effect as far as type of clothes and just match color. ex: no hat matching, don’t wear the exact same t-shirt etc etc.
Layers + Patterns:
Layers are amazing! They add dimension and can really even be used as a sneaky second outfit- just drop the coat and now you have a cute item to throw over your shoulder and show off your top! They can even give some texture to your images and more appeal.
Patterns are complex. Be careful with these and maybe even shoot your photographer a quick photo of the pattern you’re thinking. Some of them can really clash with the environment or be challenging for the camera to pick up making odds waves or weird lines on the shirt or pants. Solid colors are the safest bet but some patterns do also look great! For example, a cozy in home session with solid outfits and a subtle light patterned blanket can draw the eye in adding warmth to the photos! Another bonus tip for you: avoid logos!
A Successful Engagement Session
The last thing there is to do is the engagement session itself! Carefully planning your engagement session truly will pay off. Aside from the star of the show, the ring of course, everything is truly in your control. As I mentioned before, and will always stand by, the most important aspect of planning your engagement session is staying true to yourself as individuals and as a couple! So bring your pet along, do something creative, stay in bed, hike a mountain.. whatever feels right to you is what matters. Your images will reflect this incredible moment in your lives making all this planning worth it!
A Little Bit About The Session Pictured:
These two met me via a local facebook post I made looking for a model call! I wanted that light house in the back of my images and the dramatic coastal cliffs so I took to social media to find the perfect couple. Enter, Ildi + Drew. These two were not only very much in love and willing to lean into my vision but also freshly engaged!! It made the entire session that much more special! I truly loved working with them and the entire shoot was so effortless! The coastal views were stunning, the weather was phenomenal and the birds flying over head offered value to the images. The whole thing was wilder than my dreams! So a personal thank you to Ildi + Drew for leaning into this session based on connection and love.
Engagement Photographer in the Bay Area, CA
Hey, I’m Kianna! If you’re seeking a photographer to authentically document your love story, you’ve found the right person. I specialize in capturing heartfelt, adventurous weddings and elopements throughout California, from the serene Sierra Nevada Mountains to the picturesque coastline. Whether you’re planning an intimate elopement or a grand celebration, I’m here to provide candid, timeless images of irreplaceable moments that reflect your unique connection. Sound like your vibe? Let’s create something unforgettable together! Check out my photography packages, and contact me here to make some magic happen! PS. I TRAVEL!!
