After choosing your wedding photographer for your engagement photos in Los Angeles, CA picked the perfect spot for your photos, and set the date for your session, the next thing and the last before your engagement photo session is to get ready for an engagement photo shoot with your future spouse.
Preparing for your engagement photos is an exciting step on your journey to getting married. It’s your chance to capture some beautiful moments with your partner that you’ll look back on for years to come.
This can sometimes feel stressful, but we’re here to make it easier for you with this post. To help you feel more prepared and less stressed, we’ve put together three tips that will guide you through the process.
Engagement Photography in Los Angeles \ NZ WEDDING STUDIO
3 Tips to Prepare for Your Engagement Photos:
- Outfits (Choose Two Looks)
- Hair, Make up and Nails
- Consider Props
Most of these 3 tips go hand in hand, so focusing on one will naturally influence and improve the others
1.Smart Outfit Choices for Gorgeous
Engagement Photos
When it comes to choosing your engagement photo outfit choose something that has special meaning for you. This choice can show off your style, celebrate your relationship, or match the place where you’re taking the photos. Pick clothes that you love and feel good in.
The first thing to focus on should be the location you’ve selected, often with your photographer’s guidance. This setting will influence the style and mood of your outfits. Be creative in this process—this guide offers examples to inspire you, but the most important thing is that your outfits reflect your personalities.
- At the Beach:
Materials – light, flowy fabrics like linen or cotton.
Wear light, breezy clothes like a flowy maxi dress for women and a linen shirt with shorts for men. Sandals are great for walking on the beach, or you can go barefoot to really feel the sand between your toes! - In the City:
Materials – stylish, modern pieces, such as a cocktail dress and blazer.
Opt for stylish, modern outfits. Women could wear a chic dress or a trendy jumpsuit, while men might choose a smart blazer with jeans. Accessories like a cool watch or sleek jewelry can add a touch of city sophistication. - In a Forest or Garden:
Materials – pastels, floral prints, or light neutrals.
Go for clothes in earth tones—floral patterns for women and greens or browns for men. Choose outfits made from soft, flowing materials that look natural in the lush surroundings. Comfortable walking shoes are a must. - In the Mountains:
Materials – neutral or earthy tones, like sweaters, flannels, and jeans.
Dress in layers since it can be chilly. A cozy sweater or a jacket over a dress for women, and jeans with a thermal shirt for men work well. Don’t forget boots for walking on rocky paths. - At a Historic or Vintage Spot:
Materials – elegant fabrics like lace, velvet, tweed, or linen in muted tones or soft neutrals colors.
Wearing clothes that reflect the era of the location can be fun. Women might choose a lace dress and men a tweed jacket or a vest. Adding a classic accessory like a hat or a pocket watch can enhance the vintage feel.
In Los Angeles, your engagement photo outfits should reflect who you are while embracing the city’s vibrant energy. The most important thing is to feel comfortable and enjoy the moment together. These ideas are here to make it easier for you to decide, but the main point is to be yourselves.
2. Why Professional Hair, Makeup, and Nail Artists Are Important for Engagement Photos
I strongly recommend having a professional stylist take care of your hair, makeup, and nails before your engagement photo session. There are so many good reasons to do this, and it can make a big difference in your photos.
Professional cameras and lenses capture super sharp details, especially in close-ups and portraits. This means every little detail—like your hair, makeup, and nails—will show. When these are done professionally, you’ll look polished and feel confident in front of the camera.
- Hair: Neat, styled hair makes you look polished and enhances your natural beauty. Whether you go for soft curls, a sleek look, or an elegant updo, tidy hair complements your outfit and the location. If it’s windy or humid, bring a brush or hairspray for quick touch-ups.
- Makeup: Professional makeup highlights your best features and gives your skin a smooth, flawless look. It also prevents shine and ensures you look great in close-up shots, which capture every detail. A little extra glam is perfect for such a special moment!
- Nails: Engagement photos often show your hands and ring up close, so well-groomed nails are a must. Whether you choose a neutral polish or keep them natural, clean nails keep the focus on your beautiful ring and hands.
It’s also worth noting that most photographers include basic editing, like adjusting colors, contrast, and sharpness, in their package. However, extra retouching, like fixing messy hair, uneven makeup, or nails, often costs extra. Taking care of these details before your shoot saves you time, money, and stress later on.
Feeling your best helps you enjoy the session, so I definitely recommend getting these three things done!
3. Consider Using Props for Your Engagement Photo Session
Using props in your engagement photo session is a great way to add personality and make your photos unique. Props can help tell your story as a couple and create fun, memorable moments during your shoot. In a city as diverse and exciting as Los Angeles, there are endless creative options for props that suit every style.
Here are some ideas to inspire you:
- Balloons in soft colors or metallic tones can add a playful touch to your photos. They’re perfect for creating a fun, celebratory vibe and work well at locations like Venice Beach or a rooftop with city views.
- Beach Accessories, If you’re heading to a beach like Malibu or El Matador, bring props like a surfboard, a beach blanket, or a bottle of champagne to pop. These small details can create stunning and fun shots.
- Hats and Accessories, stylish hats, sunglasses, or scarves can double as props and wardrobe additions. They’re simple to bring and can make your photos look even more dynamic.
- Pets, If you have a furry friend, bring them along! A dog or cat can add an adorable and heartfelt element to your photos. LA parks and pet-friendly beaches make this a great choice.
Flowers, a bouquet or floral crown can bring a romantic and natural feel to your photos. Choose blooms that match your outfit or the season. Locations like the Los Angeles County Arboretum or Exposition Park are perfect for this vibe.
~ Final Note ~
Getting ready for your engagement photo session in Los Angeles can be fun and stress-free with a little preparation. Choose outfits that match the location and make you feel comfortable and confident. Make sure your hair is styled, your makeup looks great, and your nails are neat since every detail will show in the photos. Adding props, like flowers, balloons, or a picnic blanket, can make your session more personal and unique.
The most important thing is to relax, enjoy the moment, and be yourself. Your love story will shine through in every picture. Have fun and make it a day to remember!
