Liz Jean Photography: Couple’s Session Guide

Congratulations, you’re engaged! Pop some bubbly, post it to the ‘gram, and bask in that sweet sweet love. Once the initial excitement is over and it’s time to plan- an engagement shoot may be on your radar. For many (myself included) being behind the camera is a little awkward and uncomfortable. I’ve been there, which is why I created this guide for you to prep for our session and feel confident ahead of time. While this is catered to my engagement clients- this is also super helpful for ANY couples session. Whether it’s your anniversary or a just-for-fun shoot, this info will help you slay! those! snaps!

What should I wear?

For the elegant couple:

If you’re looking for your shoot to be classic, romantic, and elegant, go for a long, flowing dress. Stay with neutral colors and pair it with wedges or small, thick heels. Have your soon-to-be-hubby wear a dressy button down with khakis or dressy jeans. Avoid looking too “buttoned-up”, you have your wedding day for that!

For casual cuties:

If you and your fiancé want to capture your love in a relaxed, natural way, pair your favorite pair of jean with a dressy top and sandals or boots. Or, grab a casual dress and layer with a jacket. For the groom, wear a casual button down with jeans. Or, layer up with a casual sweater and jacket.

THE DO’S & DON’TS

DO:

• Clean your ring & paint your nails- if you’re engaged, your ring will be showcased in the pictures so make sure it’s camera ready!

• Plan a date for after the shoot- you’re all dressed up anyway, might as well make a day out of it!
• Coordinate your outfits: try to avoid wearing the exact same colors, instead look for tones that are in a similar color pallet or pair a bold tone with a neutral one.
• Look up some inspiration on Pinterest or my Instagram feed and share it with me, I love to see exactly what you like so I can customize the session!

DON’T:

• Wear anything too “trendy”- these pictures will last a lifetime, so be sure the look does as well!

• Forget to remove accessories that you do not want in the pictures (friendship bracelets, hair ties, Apple Watches, etc.)
• Wear clothing with large logos
• Wear high heels or uncomfortable shoes: make sure whatever you wear you can move in!

WHAT TO EXPECT

Get ready to feel a little awkward while looking really great.

Most couples I photograph have never had professional pictures taken. Even if they have, it usually is a very different experience than what I provide. During our session we will be moving most of the time, no stiff, corny poses. My goal is to take pictures that look natural and capture the essence of your relationship. To accomplish this, I will put you into prompts that can feel funny or silly. For example, the photos above were taken while I asked the couple to “fly like an airplane” and then wrap their arms in for a hug. They felt pretty strange doing the motions, but they laughed and smiled the entire time. The more you lean into the sillyness, the better!

If you already feel awkward in front of a lens, try your best not to worry. I am the top offender for not wanting my picture taken- so I know how to make you two more comfortable during your session! You can expect me to ask you questions, crack jokes, and give you lots of direction. I want you two to feel comfortable so I can capture you in an authentic way.

Session Tips

The more you move during our session the better. When I take a series of photos, if you are standing completely still each one will look exactly the same. If you are moving during the shots then each one will look different, meaning more photos for you! Plus, standing still can lead to feelings of stiffness/awkwardness. Do what feels natural in photos, and it will look natural!

The poses and prompts I provide are more guidelines than anything. I won’t be placing you in an exact position that you should be still in, instead I will guide you into positions that are up for your interpretation. For example, if I ask you to embrace each other, I want you two to hug and hold each other in a way that you normally would when there are no cameras involved. If you feel awkward in a position, move out of it and into something that feels right! I will let you know if there is something that looks strange, so don’t panic if I am not telling you what to do! If I don’t say anything, it’s probably because you guys look amazing and I’m capturing it from all the angles.

 

SHOULD I BRING ANYTHING?

Your shoot is totally your own- so bring anything you would like captured! My favorite props are champagne and confetti to pop. I love creativity at my shoots so if you have any ideas you’d like to try I am all ears! Gather some inspo online, or check out my Couples Pinterest Board here for some ideas.