A HOW-TO FOR YOUR STYLED ENGAGEMENT SHOOT
Preparing for your engagement session and not sure where to start? Have you ever considered a styled engagement shoot? It has easily become one of my new favorite things! You get to celebrate you engagement with photos that show your personality, creativity and help you step out of the norm.
Your engagement shoot could be the first time in front of a professional photographer together. A photographer that is experienced will lead and direct you so you feel comfortable, it can be a little awkward at first and this will only help you prepare for your wedding day.
When choosing your setting and scenes think about how the shoot will express your relationship. Do you want to be playful and laughing or exhibit a more sophisticated and editorial look? Along with showcasing your relationship you need to be as comfortable as possible. Of course you want to look amazing, but be sure your attire compliments your setting and personal style. Remember, even though you are styling and setting the scene for your shoot you want your photos to represent you and your fiancé.
A key to any styled shoot are the details. Be sure to include items that will help round out the setting and complete the picture, literally!
Hayley and Greg's styled engagement shoot was inspired by her families farm, a picturesque setting full of possibilities. I took the cue from the open, lush green fields to create a summer picnic, full of details and color. I wanted to make sure the setting was natural and they had plenty to interact with, including a refreshing strawberry shortcake using seasonal ingredients, their favorite wine and a beautiful bouquet of fresh flowers.
It was important to exhibit their personalities and include personal touches. For example, one of Hayley's favorite books is Wuthering Heights and it was the perfect touch to the bicycle basket, which is her mothers!
Hayley and Greg wanted to celebrate their engagement in style and we thought a champagne toast was the right touch in the romantic forrest. It was the perfect ending to their creative styled engagement shoot.
Greg and I wanted our engagement session to be different than standard posing, Sara helped us plan and encorporate things into our shoot that were special to us.
When I came to Sara for help creating a styled shoot, she helped to constantly brainstorm until we had a vision that we were happy with!
Hayley Ott
Are you interested in booking a styled engagement shoot?! Let me know your vision and lets start styling!
Vendor Credits:
Planner/Stylist: Sara Elizabeth Weddings // Photographer: Creative Touch Photography // Flowers: HyVee on Broadway; Quincy, IL // Nails & Make-Up: Tavish Nolan