Wedding planning is a multi-part process, and the event that marks its official start is the engagement photos! Usually the first step after the question is popped, these photos capture the joy of this special occasion and set the tone for the rest of the planning. Engagement photos are often used for save-the-dates, making the formal announcement to friends and family of your wedding date, and showcasing your love for one another.
More than just standing in front of the camera and smiling, this is your shot (literally) to give a glimpse of how you interact as a couple and your lives together. Small details such as the location, attire, and how you pose can make a big difference.
Kobi Cummings, Co-owner, Art Director, and Certified Wedding Planner at The Valley Venues, has had many engagement photos and styled shoots at her venue, and she shares some of her top tips to keep in mind when planning your own photos.
Photo Credit: Sarah Larae Photography
Choose the Perfect Location and Timing
The couple is the main focal point of the engagement photos but the location holds a significant impact on telling your story and setting the tone. Consider locations that have sentimental significance for each other, such as where you met or had your first date, the city you both live in or where you got engaged. Other factors include versatility and having a place where you can take a variety of photos that provide different perspectives and backdrops to choose from.
Cummings says, “For instance, if you look at our Instagram with our engagement sections, we have so many different options that they don’t have to all look super similar. If you are outdoorsy, look for options with a field that would be great for an adventure engagement shoot. But if you also want more classy photos, an option would be to seek out the perfect mansion-like backdrop.”
In addition, consider the season and time of day when you choose to take your photos. Different times of year impact the look of outdoor shoots and can add a different feel to the photos, such as fall foliage and spring blossoms. Capturing good natural lighting and even golden hour helps add an organic, beautiful warmth to photos.
Photo Credit: Hannah Lillian Photography
What to Wear
Finding the perfect outfit for the big announcement can be stressful and feel totally daunting. Keeping it simple can take much of the guesswork out of the planning. Stick to subtle patterns or solid colors that are in light, soft, or neutral tones—you can never go wrong with white! When planning your couple’s outfit, it’s important to coordinate but not match. Wear colors that complement each other with styles that match the occasion and don’t overshadow one another.
Cummings says you should also be “thinking of your environment and its contrast. If you’re in the forest, a white dress could be beautiful because it is going to stand out from the trees. But if you’re in a more simple environment, don’t be afraid to go bold.”
Most importantly, wear something that is comfortable and that you feel the most confident in. The camera can capture emotions, so if you’re showing any signs of not being 100% yourself, that will reflect in the engagement photos.
Collaborate with Your Photographer
Before the shoot, you should communicate clearly with them what you want, preferences, special shots, and must-have moments. Sharing a vision board with inspiration photos from Pinterest or from the gallery of the place where you’re getting your engagement photos taken can help align your expectations. Unless you’re a model, being on camera doesn’t come very naturally to most people. If you’re stuck on posing, your photographer can help you with natural movement so your photos don’t look staged. It’s common to feel awkward, so creating rapport with your photographer is very important. Being vulnerable is encouraged and can help capture very sincere and intimate moments that are perfect for truly showcasing yourselves as a couple.
“I always recommend hiring the same photographer to do your engagement and wedding photos. It lets you get to know your photographer before your wedding and is a chance to see how they pose you and how they style you. And because you get to know their style, you get to kind of try out the poses and you also get to look at the things that maybe you didn’t like,” Cummings explains.
Photo Credit: August Images
Prepare for the Unexpected
Weather is 100% unpredictable, so be prepared for unexpected changes and unforeseen circumstances. With your photographer, discuss flexible planning in case of rain or high winds, and create a backup plan that includes alternative indoor or outdoor options. For hair, makeup and clothing, bring tools to do last-minute touch-ups, like hair spray, face powder and safety pins.
Cummings also recommends that you “be in communication with your photographer and the location where you’re taking your photos if needed. I feel like a lot of couples think they’re going bother the venue or their photographer, but we would rather know what they’re anxious about so that we can set them up for success.” In any case, embrace the changes or improvisations with a positive attitude, as they might lead to candid engagement photos that couldn’t be achieved otherwise and create memorable moments.
Capturing the magic of your engagement through photos is one of the first steps in celebrating your wedding journey. Remember, these photos aren’t just keepsakes—they’re a beautiful way to announce your future together and set the tone for the special moments to come. Whether you’re surrounded by natural landscapes, cityscapes, or scenic backdrops, focus on being authentic and having fun together. With these tips, your engagement photos will be a genuine reflection of who you are as a couple, making memories to cherish for a lifetime.