Thursday, March 22, 2012

Engagement Shoot – To Do or Not To Do?


I DO!


Absolutely, positively, if you have the chance do an engagement shoot, do it! An engagement shoot has many advantages. I always recommend an engagement shoot before the wedding.

Why?

To celebrate your love as a couple!

But also…

An engagement shoot is the best way to build a relationship with your photographer. This person is going to be with you all day on one of the most important days of your life. Do you want that person to be a stranger? No you want to be comfortable with them. Knowing and liking your photographer is key in the success of your wedding and will help you to keep focused on the real reason you are having a wedding in the first place, each other.

The session will give you a chance to get to know your photographers style, how they direct and work. It also lets you know what to expect on your big day. It’s like a rehearsal. In addition, it is an excellent opportunity to get used to being in front of the camera. I have found that most grooms are not particularly comfortable posing for any kind of photos, never mind personal, romantic photos. Even though the bride is often more comfortable and open (since it was probably her idea), your photographer can give you secret little tips for posing that will make you look even more fabulous on your wedding day! ( We won’t give them away here J  ) The engagement shoot is the best opportunity for you both to adjust to being photographed.

So… build a relationship with your photographer! It is so important. Be relaxed and have fun. If you can do this it will show in your photographs. If you are relaxed your photographer will truly be able to capture who you are and save those special moments for you forever. I want to see the passion and love that the two of you share; I want it to be open, raw and honest.  Those make the best images.

Now, building a relationship with your photographer is not the only reason you should do an engagement shoot. You can use the photographs from this shoot as décor at the wedding, you can give them away as gifts to family members and friends. You can use them as a slideshow at the reception. You can also use them for your invitations and save the dates.

Know what to expect beforehand. If you have questions or you don’t know, ask your photographer! Come prepared. Be relaxed and plan to have an amazing time!

BUT WHAT SHOULD I WEAR?

I don’t think I have ever not had this question asked. In fact, it is usually the first question. There are a few different options here.

Be yourself. Let’s create timeless images that define who you were at this moment. Wear something that reflects your style and personality. You want to be comfortable. If you are normally a jeans and t-shirt gal, don’t come wearing stilettos and a mini. 

OR

This is your shoot. Want to have fun? Why not make it a themed photo shoot!? Come as your favorite action heroes, dress vintage or be Mr. and Mrs. Smith! Be creative, whatever you want. (Just be sure to let your photographer know beforehand :0)

Simple rules to remember…

Think about your location. If your shoot is in the water, downtown or in an old barnyard, dress appropriately. Complement your location. Don’t wear nine inch heels for a romantic walk up the mountain. Or at least bring flats along! 

Color? – I love bright and bold, but it is up to you. Remember your background. If your shoot is mainly in a forest don’t wear green. If you are going to be on the water with a blue sky, don’t wear blue. Pretty straightforward.  

Coordinate. If the man wears stripes, don’t wear checkers. Try not to wear exact matching colors, as you will blend into one another. Now there is always an exception, if you want to wear it, than rock it!

Bring two outfits so that we can mix it up a bit midway through. If you aren’t sure ask your photographer.

 

Location


What type of a shoot do you want? Artistic, traditional? It all depends on you. 

What locations best describe you? Where did you meet? What do you like to do together?  

Be sure that it is somewhere you can feel comfortable letting your guard down.

Maybe just pick a starting point and walk from there. You’re photographer will be able to pick out neat and interesting spots. Most important to your photographer is the light, and a good photographer can find amazing light almost anywhere.

Go out, be relaxed and have fun! 

Cheers!

Katharina Franke
      ---Your Wedding Photographer

Wedding Photographer Katharina Franke


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