It’s rare for people to feel comfortable in their own skin. And unless you’re a model who’s used to having your picture taken all the time, there’s a good chance you’re not going to feel comfortable in front of the camera at your engagement session or on your wedding day. At first!
Like with most new things, getting better at something takes a little time and practice.
Think about it this way: If you had never run a mile before, would you expect to be able to go out and run a marathon? Probably not! Or maybe. But you’ll have some severe side stitches and shin splints to work through afterward.
The same goes for feeling comfortable and confident in front of the camera.
With some practice, tips and tricks, and the right photographer to make sure you feel prepared – you’re likely to feel more at ease by the time your wedding day arrives.
Don’t believe me?!
Here are some ways to help you feel like your best selves in front of the camera. And ultimately, get some awesome photos of the two of you as a result.
Why You Should Have an Engagement Session
Practice makes perfect. And an engagement photo session is a great way to start practicing for your wedding day because it’s the perfect time to let loose, be yourself, and have fun without the pressure of a wedding day timeline to follow or an audience of family and friends.
Another part of feeling comfortable in front of the camera comes from how you feel around your photographer. And an engagement session is an excellent way for us to get to know one another better. (And in case you want to know how you’ll feel comfortable with your photographer before hiring them – check out my blog: 5 Key Things to Look for When Choosing a Photographer.)
During our session, you’ll be able to see how I guide you. I’ll also get a feel for how the two of you interact by finding the best poses and prompting you to do something that you would do naturally — what I like to call candid posing.
Ultimately, your favorite pictures of the two of you will be the ones where you’re enjoying the moment. So let’s just have fun!
Wear What Makes You Feel Most Comfortable
Obviously, an engagement session is going to be less formal than your wedding day. So whether you two want to walk barefoot on the beach, or you want to pull out all the stops and rock a dressier date-night look, the best piece of advice I can give you when deciding on outfits to wear: Choose something you feel comfortable in.
This is the first step to helping you feel relaxed. Because if you’re wearing something you’re not comfortable in, you’re going to fidget with it. And constantly be worrying about how your look.
If you’re shopping for new outfits, plan to order ahead of time. This way, you don’t have to settle on something you don’t love. And, you’ll have time to get a different size if it doesn’t fit 100% the way you want it to.
If you’re wearing something you already have but haven’t worn it in a while, make sure you try it on well in advance – just in case it doesn’t fit the way you remember.
Also, it helps to consider the setting and location of your shoot when you’re deciding what to wear. Dress for the season. And if you’re going to be on the beach after sunset in the winter, it’s important to bring something to layer.
Get Your Hair & Makeup Done
Aside from wearing the perfect outfit, I can’t think of a quicker way to boost confidence than hiring a professional to do your hair and makeup. Drybar is perfect for such an occasion. Or even better – schedule your wedding hair and makeup trial earlier in the day. And knock out two birds with one stone. Genius, right?!
By getting your hair and makeup done, you minimize the stress of having to do it yourself. It can also help you boost your self-esteem, according to this study done by the Minnesota School of Cosmetology. And on a day like your engagement session or wedding day that you’ll have photos from forever, it’s a no-brainer you want to have as little stress and as much self-esteem as possible.
And last but not least, get your nails done. Because we’re going to get some close-ups of that gorgeous engagement ring of yours.
Bonus Tip
While Pinterest and Instagram may be the ultimate sources of inspiration, try not to rely on them too much when deciding on your engagement session outfits. If you’re finding lots of beachy photos with brides that are wearing long, flowy dresses and you never wear dresses – don’t feel like you have to wear a dress too. Your outfits should be a reflection of you!
Ready to feel like a pro in front of the camera on your wedding day? Let’s do it!
Click here to schedule your engagement session.
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