6 Tips for Taking Picture-Perfect Engagement Photos

By Maya Wong
February 04, 2016
Mario Testino

Celebrate your new relationship status with pictures that reflect who you are as a couple.

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Mario Testino

We can all agree that Will and Kate have the most iconic engagement photos to date. And while we can't help you become royalty, we can help you nail your engagement-photo session. Follow these foolproof tips from Laura Ford of Laura Ford Wedding Photos and Sarah Tiedeman Gallagher of READYLUCK.

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Plan Your Shoot Around the Light

Don't forget to look up what time the sun sets on the day of your engagement session, and plan to start roughly two hours before that. "While that golden evening light is wonderful for pictures, overcast days also provide a gorgeous, silky light that is perfect for portraits," explains Gallagher.

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Make an Experience Out of It

Laura Ford

Plan your photos around an activity that has meaning to you and your fiancé. Ford suggests adventures that inspire creativity, like a hike that leads to a hidden waterfall or visiting a state park if you’re the outdoorsy type.

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Get Silly During the Shoot

Laura Ford

Do a little prep work before the day of the engagement shoot and be prepared to make the other person laugh. "Think of funny memories or inside jokes that you know will do the trick–natural laughter makes for great photographs," says Ford.

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Invite Your Four-Legged Friend Along

Laura Ford

Do you have a Buddy or Bailey who is part of the family? There’s no reason why your fluffy friend can’t be a part of your shoot. "Bring along your pet for a few shots, just make sure you have a plan for occupying them for the portion of the shoot that they aren’t included in," says Ford.

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Layer Clothes and Accessories

Eddie Winter/READYLUCK

You never know if the location you choose for your shoot will somehow look different the day of. The weather, time of day, and background distractions can affect what looks best in the shot. "Have a shawl, over shirt, hat, and jewelry on hand, and your photographer will help choose with both design and optimal comfort in mind," notes Gallagher.

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