An Engagement Photoshoot Should Tell a Love Story đ„°
Looking for tips for planning your engagement photoshoot in and around Calgary?
You said âYesâ! Take a moment to celebrate with an engagement photoshoot and use the images for social announcements, save the date cards, your wedding website or develop some images to display around your home. If youâre after a venue and a little extra help to pull it together, The Commons Calgary has a collection of photogenic venues to help you capture your life-changing moment.
Here are our top 10 Tips on creating a memorable moment that you can cherish for a lifetime.
1. Pick a photographer that suits your style
Research to find your perfect match! Weâre talking about photographers. What images are you drawn to on social media? Search photographers and their images online, browse magazines, check reviews and choose who is âyouâ as a couple. Meet up with them and ensure youâre comfortable and have the same vision.
When considering your photographer, treat your engagement shoot as a âwarm-upâ to your wedding day. Get to know each other, your styles, and your limits so youâre comfortable on your wedding day. We even have photographers that can continue with your journey and shoot further life-changing moments such as baby announcements.
âThe best photos come when you are truly in the moment - Sneaky kisses, nervous giggles and flirty touches.â
~ Kelsey Vera, Photographer
2. Choose a date based on what youâre using your photos for
Donât leave your engagement shoot until the last minute, plan it in advance based on what youâll be using the images for (for example, save-the-dates need to be sent 10 months in advance). The ideal time frame is at least 6 - 10 months before your nuptials, however if the images are for your engagement announcement, then youâll want to get them ready as soon as possible.
3. Work with a venue
Choose a location for your engagement photoshoot that is personable, intimate and comfortable. Working with a venue offers privacy and a little extra inspiration along the way. The Commons Calgary manages a collection of elegant and vintage spaces in Calgary and beyond that will exceed your expectations.
4. Clothes and outfits that outlast the test of time
Plan at least 3-4 outfits for the engagement shoot. Your outfit should be comfortable, not too tight, short, or revealing, but also not too laid back or boring. You want your look to be classic, timeless, and something that is you. Avoid black in your upper half (it doesnât reflect light very well), too many patterns (distracts from the emotion), or colours that conflict or blend too well with the setting.
âThis is an excuse to stray from your usual wardrobe and choose something with a bit more flare and playfulness! Pick something you can MOVE in, makes sense in your environment, and that makes you feel good!â
~ Kelsey Vera, Photographer
5. Shine a light on your personality
Bring your personalities to the photoshoot and introduce props that display parts of your relationship. Things like fun glasses, biodegradable confetti, sparklers, or inflatable characters. If you want heartwarming content, bring your fur baby along for the shoot.
*note the addition of animals is case by case and determined by the individual venue.
6. Boost your confidence with hair and makeup
Treat yourself and book your hair and makeup for the shoot. This will help boost your confidence. If you can do it on your own, then thatâs fine too. Remember you want it to be timeless, so make sure whatever you choose is âyouâ.
âI suggest timing your hair and makeup trials with your wedding artist for the same day as your engagement session. Not only will you knock that off your to-do list, but you will also have picture-perfect hair and makeup for your photos.â
~ Kelsey Vera, Photographer
7. Make it thematic
Take inspiration from the time of year or season, for example, Christmas, warm and cozy for winter, or rodeo for summer. Or embrace the setting of the venue. With its sleek concrete floor, grand windows and exposed brick walls, the Hemingway Room screams industrial chic and elegance for a glamorous photoshoot. Embrace a theatre theme with a rustic touch in The Studio at The Grand
8. Make it fun and low stress
Engagement photoshoots can be daunting for some. If you fall into this category, make it a day full of excitement. Book fun couple activities and excursions before or after the shoot. Have some lunch, and maybe a beverage to loosen up. Finish the shoot with a celebratory dinner and show with some drinks.
âFocus on each other and try not to stress about things like windblown hair, trust the photographer you picked to capture what looks good, and have fun flirting with your fiancĂ©! If I am quiet while shooting a session, it is because I love what I am seeing!â
~ Kelsey Vera, Photographer
9. Prepare your photographer with details
For a productive and relaxed photoshoot, share all your inspiration from Instagram. Let your photographer know what detailed close-ups and angles youâre after and what backgrounds you want to use. If youâre introducing props or your dogs, let the photographer know ahead of time so they can plan.
Inform your photographer on how you are going to use the images- do you need detailed shots for the âsave the dateâ cards, or social media announcements, images for your wedding website or timeless photos to display around the house?
10. Create everlasting memories - make it a proposal shoot
Turn your engagement shoot into a proposal shoot and capture the special moment. For an unforgettable moment, invite your friends and family to celebrate with an engagement party.
Let us help you shine while you create lasting memories.
Celebrate your engagement and book your engagement photoshoot with our collection of venues in Calgary at The Commons. You pick the perfect space and we can help you prepare photographers, decor, florists and others who can help bring your vision to life.