As a seasoned wedding and couples photographer in Tampa, I’ve seen first hand how essential it is to plan and prepare for a memorable engagement session. From the gorgeous settings of St. Pete Beach to the versatile areas of the downtown, the options here are endless. To help you make the most out of your engagement session, here’s a detailed survival guide outlining what to bring, wear, and expect!
What to Bring
A Change of Clothing
– Casual Outfit: This is great for more relaxed, candid shots. Think linen pants, casual dresses, and comfortable shoes.
– Formal Attire: To add a touch of elegance, bring along a more dressed-up option like a cocktail dress or suit.
Touch-Up Kits
– Makeup: Basics like lipstick, blotting paper, and compact powder can help you stay camera-ready.
– Hair Essentials: A comb, hairspray, and hair ties can keep flyaways in check.
– Mini First Aid Kit: Band-aids for blisters or small cuts can be a photoshoot saver.
– Mini First Aid Kit: Band-aids for blisters or small cuts can be a photoshoot saver.
-A sweat rag: This comes in handy to wipe/dab away sweat.
Hydration and Snacks
A bottle of water and some light snacks can keep your energy levels sustained, especially if the session runs longer than expected.
Comfortable Footwear
While heels or dress shoes are fantastic for photos, bringing along a pair of comfortable shoes can make walking between locations a breeze.
What to Wear
Coordinate but Don’t Match
Opt for complementary colors rather than matching outfits. Think about neutrals such as beige, tans, white, or even black! If you want to do some color try muted tones or pastels. These colors and tones create a more classic timeless look to your photos.
Avoid Busy Patterns
Solid colors or subtle patterns work best and ensure that the focus remains on you and your partner. Busy prints can be distracting.
Consider the Location
St. Pete, Florida offers diverse settings—from sandy beaches to historic urban landscapes. Dress to the setting. A flowy dress might be perfect for a beach shoot, while a sleek, more upscale outfit could suit a cityscape backdrop.
Comfort is Key
You’ll want to feel comfortable and confident in what you’re wearing. Avoid new clothes that you haven’t worn before; they might be scratchy or restrictive.
Mind the Weather
Florida’s weather can be unpredictable. In the cooler months, bring a light jacket. For hotter months, breathable fabrics are your best friend.
What to Expect
Initial Consultation
Before the shoot, I always like to chat with my couples to understand their vision, preferences, and any must-have shots. This helps tailor the session to reflect your unique love story.
Getting Comfortable in Front of the Camera
Not everyone feels at ease being photographed. We’ll start with some simple, candid shots to help you get comfortable. Your natural interactions will set a relaxed tone and build your confidence for more posed photos.
Poses and Prompts
I’ll guide you through poses and give prompts to capture genuine emotions and interactions. You don’t have to worry about feeling awkward or not knowing what to do; that’s my job to direct you in a way that feels natural and authentic.
Variety in Locations
We can shoot at multiple locations to capture a mix of backgrounds and vibes—from the sparkling waters of the bay to the rustic charm of Downtown St. Pete. St. Pete offers a wealth of scenic spots, and depending on your preferences, we can select locations that resonate most with you as a couple.
Light and Timing
The ideal times for an engagement shoot are early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft and flattering. This ‘golden hour’ lighting can create a warm, romantic atmosphere for your photos.
Patience and Flexibility
Even with the best planning, sometimes things don’t go as expected. Weather can be unpredictable, or certain locations might be busier than anticipated. A little patience and flexibility can go a long way in making the most of your session.
Post-Shoot Insights
In about 3 weeks after the shoot, I’ll provide you with professionally edited images that you can use for save-the-dates, wedding websites, or simply to cherish as a memory of this exciting time in your lives.
Pro Tips for an Amazing Engagement Photoshoot
Relax and Be Yourselves
The best photos come when you’re genuinely enjoying the moment. Think of it as a date with a third wheel who happens to be a photographer. Laugh, joke, and enjoy each other’s company.
Communicate
Have an open line of communication with your photographer. If there’s a specific idea or pose you’ve envisioned, share it. Your engagement photos should be a reflection of your relationship and personality.
Stay Authentic
While Pinterest can be a great source of inspiration, ensure that your photos feel true to who you are as a couple. Authenticity will always shine through the lens.
As a Tampa and St. Pete based wedding and couples photographer, I’m committed to ensuring your engagement photoshoot is a delightful experience. By knowing what to bring, what to wear, and what to expect, you’ll be well-prepared to create lasting memories that you’ll cherish forever. Remember, this is a celebration of your love so relax and enjoy
I hope you enjoyed reading this engagement session survival guide! If you’d like to see more, click here. If you’re looking for someone to capture your special day, click here!
KIND WORDS
Jill did an AMAZING job shooting our engagement photos! She worked with us before our session to ensure we had the best location/vibes we were looking for. Day of, she helped pose us and kept the energy immaculate. Her editing skills are unmatched!
