Michelle Darlene Photography | Photojournalistic | Los Angeles | Orange County | San Francisco Photographer

I have been getting a lot of email inquires about engagement session. The main question that keeps popping up is “How do I prepare for my E-Session Shoot. With that said I wanted to give my blog readers some tips and tricks to help you be better prepared for your shoot!  Many couples do not realize how much of an impact they can have on the way their pictures will look. The key thing here is to think creatively and concentrate on what separates you from other couples.  Here are a few things you can do to prepare for your engagement shoot:

It is all about you Two:  It all starts with you and what you both feel symbolizes your relationship. Let’s just take one of my most recent couple. Glenn and Maria. They both are fun loving outgoing and one main thing that brought them together was the fact they  both graduated from the prestige’s school Cal Poly Pomona in Engineering. So we chose the backdrop of their E-Session at non other than Cal Poly Pomona. Another idea is to bring props to the shoot. Are you and your significant other avid travelers? If so then bring a map or vintage suitcases to create a mood that reflects you and your significant others mood.

Palettes. If you do not know what location to pick for your shoot, it often helps to think of palettes each location can give you. For example, if you are planning a shoot outside a forest or park will give you a green palette, city streets will give you nice beige colors, and you will end up with rosy/yellow/lavender colors if you go to the beach. I generally advise to pick at least two locations, so that your pictures have versatility. Your home can also be a great place to do the shoot not only because you will feel relaxed, but also because you decorated it yourself, showing your own characteristics without doing much.

To pose or not to pose – that is the question: Do not be intimidated by the thought that in order to get good pictures you need to know how to model or pose – the most beautiful couple portraits are created when a photographer simply captures the two of you sharing a moment together. This means being relaxed, expressive and affectionate with each other – put your head on your loved one’s shoulder, give a light kiss, or share a laugh together. Think of this day not as your “photo shoot” day but more of another date day with your significant other J

Dress the part: Now, what do you wear to a shoot? Generally speaking, solid colors work best. Patterns can look good on guys,  however, you want to stay away from large patterns because they can be distracting. You probably want to bring two or three changes of wardrobe to create different moods for the shoot. I usually suggest girls to wear something feminine like a skirt or dress for the first half of the shoot and then change into shorts or pants for a more relaxed feel. Also, do not be afraid to accessorize – a fun scarf or belt will be great in showing your personality.  Just remember, matching is bad, coordinating is good!  – Make-up for the ladies. If you are doing the make-up yourself, you want to go a little darker then you would on an ordinary day and take the time to blend your make-up really well.

Have Fun: This is the most important basis for any E-session. Like I said before this day is your day. This is your chance to have fun and feel and look fantastic and for me to capture those moments.

Thank you Glenn and Maria for letting me share one of your moments with my readers.

L.O.V.E

Michelle Darlene