So you finally found your photographer, and you’re so excited to start working with them and getting some stellar images, but you’re thinking: Engagement photos? Yet another thing I have to figure out! Fear not, this everything E-shoot guide will have you feeling excited and relaxed. This whole process is meant to be fun, remember?
Photo Credit: KGOODPHOTO
Engagement shoots have evolved into an integral art of the wedding photography. They are important because they allow you and your photographer to get to know each other better and maybe meet face to face if you haven’t already.
You will get to know their shooting style, see how you jive together in the field, and help you and your beau feel at ease in front of the camera. Consider it practice before the finale. It will develop trust with your photographer and in yourself – because you’re going to look like a rock star.
Most importantly, this is a special time in your life together as a couple, which can be overlooked in the hustle and bustle, and often stressful, whirlwind of event planning. Take this photo shoot time to set aside your venue worries, bridesmaids concerns and TLC addiction to just have fun with each other, and refocus on your connection.
Some guys are even getting a photographer to hide and take snapshots while he proposes – a pre engagement shoot, shoot. This is a new thing that could become more popular, as emotions are high and the photos are magic.
Now on to the Nitty Gritty
Where:
Think about locations that mean something to your relationship – nothing is too boring or bizarre. How about that coffee shop where you noticed each other for the first time? How about that park where he proposed or that beach where you had your first kiss? Or just somewhere where you both like to venture together.
If you would rather, you can ask your photographer to pick out a location for you, they will throw out a few suggestions and you can brainstorm together. Either Way, there are a couple of things to consider. The first query I present my brides is whether they would like the shoot to be a Rural or Urban setting.
Rural is a more rustic look – open fields, beaches, forests, anything country.
Photo credit: KGOODPHOTO
Urban is something modern and upscale, often including interesting architecture, lighting and cityscapes.
Photo credit: KGOODPHOTO
Think about what would suit you both more – some couples are diehard urbanites and some love the rustic look. I really like both, they each lend themselves to a unique look and if I could only save one from a burning building, it would be a sad day.
Sometimes you can do both looks in one shoot, depending on how far away the commute is among the different locations. Be sure that the commute time doesn’t eat up the playtime. If you have a considerable commute in mind, get your photographer’s opinion on timing, and maybe talk about a longer shoot. The city park is the happy medium.
Sometimes it helps to keep it congruent with your wedding theme: If you are getting married under a giant arbutus tree, you might want to have some vintage engagement images to adorn your barn-turned-reception atmosphere. If your reception is at a modern hotel, it might lend itself better to have some photos of you smooching in a subway tunnel as the metro lights stream behind you.
The Rural vs. Urban rule is just a basic guideline though; I personally love out of the box settings and quirky ideas. When I have a couple that is up for anything, we tend to end up with some very unique and often humorous imagery.
Photo credit: KGOODPHOTO
When:
Be sure to check the weather when booking a date. It if calls for slight showers, I don’t worry about it too much as it often just ends up being overcast in my area (which is my personal preferred lighting). Bring an umbrella just in case. Even if you do get a little drizzle, that can look spectacular when lit from behind with a strobe and overall can really add a fairytale element to your shoot. Stormy clouds can look dramatic as well.
It’s not preferred, but there is, ahem, a silver lining if it does happen.
Photo credit: KGOODPHOTO
Same goes for the wedding day, but I hear you get a little extra luck for that one. Talk to your photographer about whether they feel comfortable shooting in a little rain. It’s always good to have an indoor location in mind as a fall back in case it gets torrential.
Time of day is important.
If the weather calls for bright sunshine, and we don’t want that look for your particular shoot, you can do the photos earlier in the morning before the sun is too high and hot. Dusk is referred to as “The Golden Hour” and is popular for stunning sunset photos along the beach, and the increasingly popular evening photography, lit by an external flash or ambient city light.
Photo credit: KGOODPHOTO
Photo credit: KGOODPHOTO
That’s just dandy but what do we wear?
You’ve been stressing about this one even before you booked the photographer. Here are some tips:
-Don’t wear the same thing (unless it’s intentional humor).
-Do wear something comfortable (you won’t be able to relax if you’re worried about your strapless falling down).
-Don’t brandish large logos (or they’ll think that Nikey sponsored the wedding)
-Do dress to match the location (those stilettos are for the city mouse)
-Do bring more than one outfit (I tell my brides to bring a casual dress for movement, and skinny jeans for later) (talk to your photographer about their outfit policy).
-Do bring accessories (funky hair pieces, jewelry, seasonal winter wear).
-Don’t let your man wear a ball cap (hat hair is better than no face).
-Do put a little oomph into your makeup if that’s how you normally roll (many of my brides go for the professional hair and makeup discount as part of my photo package – it really enhances the experience and may help you nail down a stylist for your walk down the aisle).
-Don’t stress about it at all, these are just guidelines – ultimately you should be yourself and wear what represents you (from ripped jeans to a mascot costume-anything goes).
Props
Are fun. Bring anything that you think would look cool. Popular ones include:
-Bikes
-Your pet
-Umbrellas
-Gum boots
-Bubbles
-Balloons
-Chalkboard
-Picture frame
-Suitcase
-Mustaches/funny glasses
Photo credit: KGOODPHOTO
Photo credit: Wedding Paper Divas
Photo credit: Bridefinds.com
Photo Credit: Adrienne Gunde
I have seen crazier things and honestly the sky is the limit! Tell your photographer if you are bringing any props and they can brainstorm some prop-associated ideas ahead of time, or ask them if they have a prop idea in mind for the location you’re going to.
Themed shoots
This is a trendy new take on the engagement shoot. You have your basic themes: Rural and Urban, but you can take it to the next level. If you are a big fan of a certain romantic movie or novel, you could recreate some scenes or use elements.
I saw an amazing one that is themed around “The Notebook” it seriously looks like scenes from the movie!
Photo credit: Blushing Bride Studios
A photographer friend of mine, Eunice Montenegro, did an awesome job with a “Twilight” theme.
Photo credit: Eunice Montenegro
If you fancy the theme notion, you can honestly re-create any famous romance, especially if you have the right location for it: The Waldorf for Serendipity, Sleepless in Seattle etc.
I haven’t personally done a themed shoot yet, but I would love to do Pride and Prejudice or Princess Bride.
Your only job is to have fun
You are not un-photogenic. Period. If you are having fun then you will look good. Smiles and laughter are amazing like that. For the most part, you will be cuddling up, as natural as you do on the couch 
You’ve chosen your photographer based on whether or not you get along with them, and whether or not you like their photography style. Which means that you trust them. He or she will give you ample direction.
So just kick back, run around, goof off and have fun with your other. Because you’ll be surprised at how fun it is and how comfortable you will actually feel.
Photo credit: KGOODPHOTO
Boudoir Photoshoot 101
With Valentine’s Day around the corner – ’tis the season to get sassy! You may have heard about a trendy, sexy phenomena known as the Boudoir photoshoot.
Photo Credit: KGOODPHOTO
Boudoir photos are typically used as a creative and sassy gift for a loved one, for a special occasion or just for fun. The most popular occasion is for your fiance as a pre-wedding or honeymoon present – talk about a wedding gift he won’t forget!
I think that the most appealing thing about a boudoir photo is that it gives you an opportunity to celebrate yourself – the sassy gift is just the perfect excuse. You can look back on these images anytime – way in the future or when you’re just having one of those days.
Ask your wedding photographer if he or she also does boudoir shoots. Male photographers typically don’t offer this service, though there are some that do and it’s completely whatever you are comfortable with.
The best way to find your boudoir photographer is to ask your friends. Boudoir photography is very popular and chances are that someone you know has already done a session and would have some excellent advice for you. Whether it’s word of mouth, online or in publication, it’s important to go with a photographer that you have a good feeling about – quality of their work and personality.
Photo Credit: KGOODPHOTO
How do I prepare for a shoot like this?
In advance of having these photos taken, I would recommend stretching first as arching the back may be strenuous if you are not used to it. Girls will usually have an appreciation for modeling after this – it’s a bit like power yoga. Be sure to notify your photographer if you have any physical limitations.
I would also recommend having your hair and makeup professionally done – it will give you a confidence boost and help get you into character – not to mention it’s lots of fun and you can use your bridal trial for this or test-run a potential wedding day stylist. Your photographer will likely have someone in mind. Go a bit over the top with the hair and makeup – false lashes and some extra eyeshadow. Your reflection will shock you, but the camera will see it much more tame.
Photo Credit: KGOODPHOTO
What Can I expect?
A bride’s expectations should be to feel amazing and relaxed during the shoot, and be pleased with the results, as the photos will most likely exceed your expectations. As women, we tend to focus on our physical flaws. As photographers, we see you differently, and put you in a light and angle that will highlight your assets and cause you to appreciate yourself.
For this reason, I would not recommend being very specific about poses for your shoot. Though if you have something very specific in mind, definitely explain your vision, or provide the image of inspiration.
Trust in your photographer is the most important thing, especially in a shoot of this nature. Some poses will feel silly and exaggerated, though just like the hair and makeup, the camera needs exaggeration in some positions to make it work. Just laugh at yourself and unleash your inner vixen.
Investments vary among photographers based on experience, quality, length of shoot and services. The average range is $300-800. The shoot itself will typically last one hour.
An experienced photographer will know exactly what they are going for, enabling them to pose you effortlessly as well as utilizing the entire surroundings for optimum variety in your images. If the photographer is confident, you will feel confident and at ease during the shoot. Some photographers offer options like a hair and makeup stylist, hotel room setting, and albums.
Above all, be sure to choose a photographer with work that speaks to you and makes you feel something.
KGOODPHOTO
Where does it happen?
Most photographers will have a studio setting available or an option to rent one. Many photographers come to your house and photograph you in the comfort of your own home, or a friend’s home (if it’s a sweetheart surprise!).
With portable studio lights, anywhere is a studio! Hotels are extremely popular, and your photographer may have an affiliation with one. It has a more artistic feel without the studio background, and I recommend doing it on location instead.
KGOODPHOTO
The most common question – What should I wear (or rather, not wear)?
Wear anything that makes you feel sexy or confident. Corsets, garters, swimsuits, funky lingerie, pearls and heels are popular. Sometimes we will incorporate a prop that relates to the husband/boyfriend/partner.
For example, don an apron for your chef or hug a guitar for your musical beau. Some popular themes are Cowgirl (cowboy hat and boots), pin-up (vintage lingerie + red lipstick), and the man-shirt (or sports jersey).
Talk to me about the airbrushing!
The #1 reason why women are hesitant about doing a boudoir shoot is because they can’t believe that they would know how to pose, or could look sexy in front of the camera. This is understandable because it’s the unknown, it’s natural to feel anxious when you’ve never modeled before – It’s not unusual to take a swig of wine or tequila shot before you get your bearings!
The truth is, as long as you’re relaxed and having fun, you’re going to look great! If you feel you would not suit a boudoir shoot because you are older or heavier – pish posh. I once did a groupon deal for boudoir photo shoots and shot over 200 in one year. During that time, I had the pleasure to photograph all different shapes, sizes and ages – just last week I photographed a boudoir with a 65 year old (and she rocked it).
Everyone feels sexy after a shoot like this! I promise you will be surprised with how comfortable you will feel, and how much fun it actually is!
Photoshop doesn’t hurt either! I edit the images like I would edit myself – conscious of small bulges and skin retouching but nothing major as I like to preserve your natural beauty.
KGOODPHOTO
Posing Sexy 101
Your photographer will be with you every step of the way – instructing you into the correct angles and poses, right to your fingertips.
I even have names for certain poses: when your eyebrows shoot up and you get those forehead wrinkles, I call that the “boudoir nemesis” (it sneaks up on everyone). To counteract, tilt up your chin and focus on lifting your eyelashes instead of the brows.
“The Turtle” is where you roll both shoulders forward into a concave position, hug yourself and rest your chin on your shoulder. This is great for those elegant bare-back shots.
Whenever you touch the furniture or your body, raise your wrist slightly, keeping the fingers straight, I call it “the pet”. It gives your hands and arms a dainty and feminine shape.
Always keep your neck long and relaxed, and arch your back.
Arching your back is like shoulder-checking, if you feel like you are doing it too much, you’re probably not doing it enough!
Finally, the secret to the sexy face is actually quite simple. Relax your entire face into your street-walking no-expression. Then, tilt your head slightly to one side and let your lips part. Try it a few times in the mirror, and, as Tyra says, don’t forget to “smize”!
KGOODPHOTO
Can you say Staggette?
This makes a great staggette activity! Some photographers will offer a boudoir stagette package including a hotel room or studio rental, plus professional hair and makeup. The bride usually gets her shoot free if a certain amount of bridesmaids sign up.
After the shoot, you and all your best gals are ready to hit the town with your new makeovers and an amazing experience.
KGOODPHOTO
Ideas on how to give this gift to the lucky recipient:
Sexy calendar
Photo album
Wallet-sized prints
Prints (in random places around the house, medicine cabinet, under pillow or in suitcase etc.)
Canvas Print (some moody abstract photo from your session is the perfect accent to your own boudoir)
If your man travels a lot, email him one during each trip
Can a male do a boudoir shoot?
Each photographer has their own policies on whether or not they do “Dudeoirs” as I like to call them.
I always keep it tasteful and PG. I once did a sexy shoot with a firefighter (sometimes I wonder how I get paid for this…)
For more information and photo examples, check out my boudoir site: http://kgoodphoto.com/#/boudoir/
KGOODPHOTO