How To: Avoid Awkward Engagement Photos
I recently opened the doors for questions on my engagement sessions, and boy did I get some good ones! The most common concern that I heard was the fear of being awkward in front of the camera!
I’m definitely no stranger to hearing the words “I’m not photogenic”… followed up by “no, seriously". I probably hear it from 90% of my clients, while the other 10% might just not have said it out loud. Rest assured, I’m here to help with a few quick tips that will hopefully calm your nerves and leave you with some killer engagement images!
FIRST - Show up to your session wearing something you’re comfortable and confident in! Your photographer will likely send you a style guide before the session with of lots and tips and tricks for choosing your outfit, but most importantly I always encourage my couples to wear something that suits their personality and that they feel comfortable moving around in. Showing up feeling good always gives us a head start!
SECOND - The great news I always reassure my clients with is that it’s NOT YOUR JOB to know what to do in front of the camera! It’s your photographer’s job to guide you! I’m always sure to give a ton of direction where it’s needed, and my style of direction and photography lends really well to creating those natural/real moments. Make sure when you’re choosing your photographer that you like their style - and their direction when behind the camera should follow! Take the pressure off of yourself to know what to do because that’s never, ever expected!
THIRD and most importantly - Have fun with this! Think of your engagement session as a date night where you and your partner can connect, enjoy each other’s company and walk away with some awesome images to reflect your relationship. I always encourage my couples to not take things too seriously. Feel free to improvise, be yourselves and let your personalities shine through. (Those are usually the images that you’ll like the most).
I know it’s easy for me to say that things will be far easier than what you are building them up to be - but they truly are! Hopefully these quick tips can help put away any worry you have leading into your session! To show you a little bit more on this natural + laid back look, I’d love for you to check out a few favourites from a recent session with Nat + Jon, below! Do you think there were some nerves heading into this? You’d never be able to tell.
Stay tuned for a few other answers to your engagement session questions coming soon!
