Having an engagement photoshoot is a fantastic way to mark this milestone and also to practice being together in front of a Wedding photographer before your wedding day. So here are some tips for posing to help you understand how a typical engagement shoot might go.
"But Amy ...we're so camera shy!"
This is the most common concern, you aren't alone. It helps to think of me as a good friend just casually taking your picture as we go for a walk. I'm here to see you succeed! I am always on your team.
I usually start us off with a walk and chat and ask you to hold hands, look at each other and tell each other little things about your day. Maybe save up some good chat for this or tell a funny joke or maybe whisper something lovely in your partner’s ear.
As you feel more comfortable with the camera being around, you’ll find it easier to start exaggerating some of the walking and the pauses. For example, we are walking along slowly and i’ll suggest holding hands, maybe both hands and holding arms out to have a good look at each other and smile. From here a little turn under your arm for your partner can look really lovely in a photo. A kiss to her hand. A close cuddle with your partner, facing each other or both facing one way.
Depending on your outfits, the weather conditions/location and if you're feeling inspired we can do a dip or a lift too. This can be fun to practice at home!
If we are at the beach, once we've walked a bit we might find a sweet spot to sit down in the dunes and I'll ask you to have a cuddle and a moment.
● Aeroplane arms. Stand behind her and hold her hands, stretch arms out wide.
● Leaning into his chest, face to chest.
● Walk holding hands and bump your hips gently together.
● Stand side-by-side, hold hands, and look in opposite directions.
● Stand behind her, wraps your arms around her arms gently (without squashing her hair) and her gaze away or towards camera with a soft smile while he sniffs her neck. Or kisses it! Whatever you like.
● If you are wearing a dress, you might swing your arms around and lift your shoulder to your chin.
● Soft - almost kiss.
● Take everything out of your pockets - Keys, Phone, lip balm everything.
● Remove hair ties from your wrist.
● When I’m guiding you, try not to look at me (the photographer) unless I say “and look over at me”.
● Practise your steely blue stares into the distance. A stare can create some dramatic images.
● Try to keep your bodies together when close.
● Ideally wear clothes that are plain without colours, patterns or logos or obvious branding or extra accessories. Jeans, Skirts, Dresses, White, Cream, Beige if on a beach look amazing but just wear what feels right for you.
● Footwear, wear something appropriate for your location. Easy to slip on and off or just come barefoot.
● Please check your nails are prepared well in case of hand close ups. Clean any rings/earrings etc.
Prepare yourself as if this was your wedding day!
