Engagement session tips for outfits, locations and props. Destination engagement photography in France

Engagement Photography Tips for Location

When couples first start planning their engagement session with me, one of the first things they ask is where they should go. Location is important, and I always encourage couples to select somewhere they really like. Some couples like to explore somewhere pretty and new together, some just want the river or city skylines, and some like to include a location that has sentimental value to them. (I’m also asked if I photograph destination engagements, and the answer is of course, ‘yes!’)

Engagement Photo Outfit Tips for What to Wear

After couples have settled on a location, we start brainstorming what they should wear! I actually have a guide I share with MAPcouples that shares lots of tips for selecting an outfit that photographs well. And one thing that’s important to keep in mind is to select an outfit that you feel good in, and that flatters the parts you want featured, and hides the parts you do not. If you feel comfortable and pretty—it’ll show! The classic linen wrap dress featured in this editorial engagement session in France is from Luxe Provence. Avoid outfits where you are having to suck in or worry about angles.

If there’s a beautiful gown in your closet you never have the occasion to wear (or one you’d love to buy and need an excuse) this is your opportunity. How often do you have professional photos taken? This is your chance to shine! Your engagement photos are the perfect time to get really dressed up and feel special. Gowns with flowy skirts in creams and pastels photograph wonderfully. Guys always look great in a suit! Avoid neon colors—they will reflect unflattering colors onto your skin.

Some MAPbrides also opt for professional hair and makeup. It can be a great trial run working with your wedding stylist, and professional hair and makeup always take your photos to the next level.

Engagement Photo Shoot Tips for Props

Often-overlooked elements to the engagement session are props. I love that this session, styled by the fabulous Vivien Lyttle, tells a story. This couple explored the French countryside on the grounds around the chateau and then enjoyed some wine and food at a beautifully styled picnic! Her straw bag with florals is just the right touch to bring a little color in to an otherwise rainy day, too.

Consider bringing a foraged bouquet along on your session. It’s good practice for posing on your wedding day, and it adds an extra level of specialness to your image.! If you’re a floral crown or hat kind of girl, they photograph beautifully!

Many couples bring along their dogs, and this is a great way to include your pupper in the pictures! (Just make sure to bring along a friend or family member who can help watch your pup for you so you’re not stressed out during your session.)

And it’s a great idea to clean your engagement ring before your session! While you’re changing outfits, I’ll take some close up shots of your ring! Engagement rings are the easy ‘props’ that most couples bring along, and I’ll definitely want to get a few shots of that for you.

Winter Engagement Photo Tips

For winter engagement photos, think layers! Fleece-lined tights add warmth, and you’d never even know they’re hidden under your dress. Bringing along a cozy coat and hand warmers so you can warm up in between shots. We can also schedule photos for a location that has inside and outside options so we can duck inside to warm up and grab a few shots indoors if it’s too cold outside for all of your shots. Winter engagement photos are the perfect opportunity to really snuggle up! Take advantage of the opportunity and wrap those arms around each other for warmth!

Summer Engagement Photo Tips

Summer engagement photos can look amazing with all that summer sun! But sometimes the humidity can be brutal—especially for the guys in the suits! Make sure to bring a water bottle and stay hydrated during your session!

Engagement Photo Posing Tips

Don’t worry about engagement poses at all! When we start the session, I’ll be teaching you some basic poses so you don’t have to even think about that beforehand. It’s my goal to capture your images naturally, so I’ll give you a starting point, see how you interact with each other naturally, and offer any needed direction from there! I’ll have you walking and interacting with each other so that you have a great time and will eventually forget the camera is even around.

Engagement Photo Session Tips & Inspiration

Keep scrolling to get some inspiration from this beautiful styled shoot at Chateau Bouthonvilliers in Dangeau France. All the fabulously talented creatives assembled by Katie Nicolle are listed below, too. Give them a follow to give your Instagram feed a huge boost of inspiration!