How to Take Engagement Photos

Engagement photos allow a couple to work with their photographer before the wedding, make lovely gifts for friends and family and provide an image for an engagement announcement in the local paper. Here's how to take engagement photos.

Instructions

1. Choose a wedding photographer soon after engagement. The engagement photo session is a great opportunity for you to become familiar with your photographer's demeanor and style. If you have any concerns, you can discuss them with the photographer well before the wedding.

2. Pick a meaningful location. Studio shots are not ideal for engagement photos, as they reveal little about your relationship. Have your photo taken at the restaurant where you had your first date or on the bridge where you proposed. Your photographer will follow your lead. If you're in a creative rut, the professional might have some interesting suggestions.

3. Wear casual, complementary clothes. Your wedding photos will be formal, so the goal of the engagement photo is to feature you both as you appear in your everyday life together. Choose something that represents your individual style, but be sure to coordinate styles and colors.

4. Ask the photographer to take posed and candid shots. If you like candids, ask the photographer if you can have a friend or family member snap pictures during your session. All pictures should capture both of you and should demonstrate physical affection.

5. Act naturally. To take great engagement photos, do not overanalyze poses or worry about the final product. A good wedding photographer knows what translates best onto film. His job is to get great pictures; your job is to relax and have fun.

6. Review proofs and give feedback to your photographer. If there are poses that you feel particularly strong about, let her know. She will use the information on your wedding day.

Tips & Warnings

• Engagement photos make great gifts for parents and grandparents. Place the photo in a frame and give it to your relatives on a holiday or at the rehearsal dinner.

• If you use your engagement photo for save-the-date cards or an announcement in the paper, ask your photographer for permission. The photographer owns the copyright, but will probably let you publish the images if you give due credit to his work.

• Engagement photos are usually included in wedding packages offered by photographers. The sitting is usually free, but prints generally cost extra. Some photographers will offer wallet-sized engagement photos as part of a package, which are great as reception favors or to send along with thank you notes.