Engagement photo session tips for brides and grooms | Wedding Guide | Pittsburgh | Pittsburgh City Paper

Engagement photo session tips for brides and grooms

What to wear, where to shoot and other helpful tips for creating the best photos

An engagement photo taken outside of Heinz Field
An engagement photo taken outside of Heinz Field

After you’ve said yes and chosen a wedding date, it’s time to start planning some of the fun stuff like engagement photos. Engagement sessions are a great way for you to get to know your photographers before your wedding day. It also helps you to familiarize yourselves with being in front of a camera. 

WHAT TO WEAR

*Keep it simple and comfortable. A simple approach will give you timeless photographs. Try not to be too trendy as trends fade and you’ll be looking at these for a long time.

*Avoid being “matchy-matchy” with your clothing. Coordinating your outfits is one thing, wearing the same thing is a really bad idea. 

LOCATION

*Be creative! Think about where you had your first date, or maybe a park that you visit often. Really any place that has special meaning will work. Also, don’t rule out local businesses. Many owners are happy to grant photo access if you ask. Ice-cream shops, wineries, etc., are all great places.

click to enlarge Engagement photo session tips for brides and grooms
Photo by Electric Lime Studios
A ring, newly cleaned right before shooting

GENERAL TIPS:

*Listen to your photographer about lighting. If you are going to have your session indoors, portable lights may be used and can take some time to set up. If you want an outdoor session, schedule your session about an hour-and-a-half before the sun sets. It’s called the golden hour for a reason, and it will result in some dreamy images.

*Don’t be afraid to use props. Bring along anything that means something to you. Enjoy bike riding? Bring the bikes along. 

*Make that ring shine! Get your ring cleaned right before your photos, it will ensure a sparkly ring that pops.


The most important tip is to be comfortable and be yourself. Interact the way you normally would. If you know what will make each other laugh, say it. If you’re happy and comfortable, it will show when you get your pictures.




Dan and Lindsey Thompson are a husband-and-wife photography team. See more of their engagement and wedding photos at electriclimestudios.com.