A couple or engagement session is the BEST way to get comfortable in front of the camera. Did I mention that this is also a great time for you two to stare into each others eyes, laugh at silly things & kiss... a lot 😉
I always make sure to prepare my clients before a session, so that you know what to expect.
Did you know there are a few things you can do to prepare yourself so that you can rock your photo shoot?
Below I share 5 TIPS on you can do exactly that!
1. LOCATION & ACTIVITY
Do you have a special location you like to visit as a couple? Include an activity – do you love hiking, going for coffee/ice cream or perhaps you love watching the sunset on the beach (this is one of my favourite things to do).
Including an activity will also help take your mind off the photoshoot 😉
My go-to locations; Signal Hill, Camps bay, Clifton, Chapman’s Peak, Wine Farms, City Center, Coffee shops, Sea Point (anywhere pretty). I have a few favourite locations here in Cape Town I recommend to my couples, click here and here to see more.
Always remember that some locations require an entrance fee, or you might have to ask permission before taking photos there (most wine farms).
With my 2 hour sessions I like to go to two locations; this way you can get the ‘best of both worlds’.
2. DRESS UP
Simplicity is always best, so when in doubt keep in mind that “less is more”.
Is there a specific colour that suits you really well? Then incorporate that. Bright colours will always photograph well, and will let you ‘pop’ on the photo.
My favourite go-to recommendations are:
For the ladies: a dress (long or short). The dress could be floral or plain, but should make YOU feel pretty and comfortable. For a 2nd outfit you could go for a more casual look; jeans & a pretty top. To that you can add a jacket or jersey. If you have any part of your body that you feel conscious about; don’t be afraid to mention this to me. Or wear something that would cover up of camouflage this area a bit more.
For the gentlemen: a button up shirt with a collar with some chinos looks good on any guy. To this you can also add a suit jacket (this will let it all look much more fancy). For a 2nd casual outfit; jeans (short or long) with a t-shirt works well.
Click here for a few more tips on how to choose your outfit.
3. CHOOSE THE RIGHT TIME OF DAY
Sunrise: If you don’t mind getting up early, then make use of this beautiful time of day. I just love the twilight before the sun rises. Sunrise photoshoots are some of my favourites, as it is still quite everywhere, and I love seeing a new day start.
Sunset: Who doesn’t love ‘golden hour‘. 1 hour before sunset is the best, nothing beats romantic and warm sunset photos.
4. BE YOURSELF & DON’T HOLD BACK
Come with an open mind and attitude; now is the time to trust your photographer and just enjoy being together as a couple.
Tell jokes, laugh at silly things, pick each other up, dance, jump, run into the ocean… whatever makes you enjoy yourself – do THAT!
I will of course give you guidance on how to stand/where to put your hands etc. so you can just relax 🙂
Guidance is given so that you can feel comfortable as you create your own beautiful moments 🙂
5. HAIR AND MAKE-UP
Who doesn’t feel extra pretty when having their hair & make-up done professionally? I know I do! 😀 It is a good idea to still keep it natural, now is not the time to try out a new haircut or a new style of make-up that you aren’t comfortable with. And don’t be afraid to add some colour to your lips 🙂
If you have long hair, going with loose curls looks soooo good, especially if it is a bit windy. You can always tie it up if it is bothering you 😉
Recommendations for make-up & hair: Ida Webster, Peach Cronje, Marle Boltman.
