Features

November 22, 2009

Engagement photos embrace a new image

JEN DEROSE WeddingChannel.com

Engagement photo shoots have come a long way since the days of matching outfits at the beach and carefully composed studio shots. Now, many couples are choosing themes that focus on their interests and what reflects their uniqueness as a couple.

“Thirty years from now, you want to look back at those photos and not just see a perfect posed portrait, but a reflection of your life together,” says Colorado-based photographer Jenna Walker. “Bold colors, unique ideas, and editorial-type sessions are all current trends.” So ditch the matching jeans and white T-shirt combo, and try one of these four ideas instead.

Play With Vintage Props

Ever had your picture taken and wondered what to do with your hands? If you’re a little camera shy, using props is an easy way to become more comfortable in front of the camera (think: you with a handful of balloons, or him holding his fedora). Antique cars, bicycles, and parasols are simple ways to add color and make a picture come to life. Walker recommends that brides wear a frilly, retro-style dress and twirl in it to add movement. Ask your photographer to digitally edit photos with vintage effects like texture and lighting filters to complete the look.

Stay Close to Home

Instead of building a photo session around a concept, try doing a lifestyle shoot, which is more like a documentary. “They’re a great practice run (for your wedding) because you’ll get used to the way your photographer works,” says Walker. A photographer will spend time at your home to capture your day-to-day lives. But that doesn’t mean it should be routine — concentrate instead on your fun and relaxed weekend activities. Try playing with your cats or taking your dog for a walk, cooking a favorite meal together, or lingering over lattes at your favorite coffee shop. If you’re shooting at home, don’t worry about shoes. Going barefoot will instantly relax you and make for some very natural photographs.

Think Sexy and Intimate

If you’re a couple who isn’t afraid of PDA, then a sexy, romantic shoot could work for you. Follow in the footsteps of Fergie and Josh Duhamel and try snuggling in the bedroom. You could wear some pretty pajamas or a slinky slip while your guy dons pajama bottoms and a white T-shirt, or even goes bare-chested. Schedule your makeup trial for the same day. The look is sultry but tasteful — not photos you’d be embarrassed to have on the mantel when your in-laws visit!

Explore Unique

Environments

Forget about fake backdrops and fussy studio sets. Part of a photographer’s fee will usually cover location scouting. If you live in a rural area, old motels, dilapidated barns, and open fields can make for some one-of-a-kind photographs, while graffiti, vintage signage, and brick walls work for city dwellers. Schedule your shoot for sunset, when the light is usually best, and check with your photographer to confirm they’d be willing to reschedule in case of inclement weather.

Tips for Getting Perfect

Photos

You’ve heard it before, but New York based photographer Kella MacPhee is adamant about the old rule: Avoid black! “It doesn’t read well on camera and competes with your background,” she explains.

Instead, try coordinating bright colors, fun shoes, and layered clothing to create different looks. The key to gorgeous engagement pics? It’s as simple as “letting go of any fear of looking silly, drawing in all the love you have for one another, and just being yourselves!” MacPhee says.

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