You’re getting married! But first, it is time for the now time-honored tradition of taking photos together for your enjoyment, save the dates and announcements, also known as your engagement photos. I spoke with Deb Kalsbeek, Owner and Chaos Coordinator of Snap Studio, to give you the best tips to prepare for your soon-to-be beautiful engagement photos.

When on the wedding timeline should I get them?

Deb recommends at least 6-12 months before your wedding date.

Picking a Photographer

Look for someone who is licensed and insured. You’ll want to find someone you are comfortable with. What is the photographer’s style of work, or what are you drawn to? Is it a moody image? Maybe the true-to-color photography? Or those faded tones? Are they candid or classic styled photographers? This all really matters on what you want. Also, find out how they’ve been handling COVID with their brides. And read through contracts thoroughly, ensuring if something did come up on either end, you’re protected from losing deposits, or the session entirely.

What to wear…

You’ll want to wear something timeless. Anything too trendy or Pinterest-inspired may date the photos, unless that’s what you want to do! Deb also says think about how you decorate your home. These are photos you most likely will hang up, so you want something that will complement the décor as well. Going with your wedding colors is always a good option. And wear something comfortable. You’ll be out and about a while. You don’t want something you cannot move in, or need to adjust every 30 seconds.

Where are we going? What do we want our photos to look like?

In Deb’s engagement sessions, many times the setting is like a date. It’s the two of you having a good time together, and brings out some of the most genuine of photos. You can recreate a first date. Use the backdrop of one of your favorite places together. If you want your pets in the image, include them! Ask yourself: what backdrop best represents you two as a couple?

Get professionally done up

You want to look your absolute best. Treat this like a wedding day run through. Get your hair done. Get your nails done. Have a professional do your makeup. Look flawless. And this goes for the groom too. If you feel like you look your best, you’ll go into the session with much more confidence.

Lastly, relax

Many of you out there are probably camera shy, and expressing your emotions and posing in front of a camera for a few hours is intimidating. Aside from wearing comfortable clothing and making yourself look like an 11 out of 10 for your day, find ways to calm your nerves. Deb even encourages a drink before the session—it’ll loosen your inhibitions and make it easier for genuine interactions. You don’t want engagement photos like Chandler and Monica from “Friends” coming back!

Tips and photographs from Deb Kalsbeek, Owner and Chaos Coordinator of Snap Studio. Find more tips on her blog: snapshotmomentsphoto.com/snap-blog