Couple/Engagement Posing Guide
Pockets: empty them!
- Phones, keys, wallets, etc. don't belong in your pockets for these pictures (even for the guys). Either leave those things in your car/purse off to the side of where we're taking your pictures or hand them to your photographer. We carry a bag with us we can put these things in for you until the end of the session. You aren't going to need your phone, even if there was a Pinterest board you've built because we'll have that board as well.
Where to Look:
- Not at the camera unless we specifically say "look at the camera". Focus on each other. The session is for you guys, not the people you'll be sharing the photos with.
Hands:
- If you don't know what to do with your hands, put them on your partner. And to take it one step further, let's focus on your hands. Hands add intimacy and drama to your photos so try to keep them all over each other. Pull on his collar as you bring him in closer for a kiss. Brush her hair out of her face as you pull her in for a kiss.
Show the Love:
- The more love you have for each other the more you're going to see it in your photos. Don't hide the love you have for each other just because you have a photographer taking your picture. Let that love shine through so you'll have photos you'll love for the rest of time.
Feeling Awkward?:
- As photographers, we don't like super posed photos because they're too stuffy. We want your session to reflect you as a couple, so rather than posing you, we'll give you prompts or directions based on you as a couple.
Family Posing Guide
- Make any hair, nail, and/or makeup appointments for before your photoshoot. Make sure your roots are touched up and you aren’t wearing chipped nail polish!
- Plan your outfits at least a week in advance—don’t wait until the last day, trust me! You want to wake up feeling relaxed and prepared, so plan these details out early. Feel free to text me photos of your wardrobe if you’re having a hard time choosing! I’m happy to help!
- Prepare your kids with laid-back, low-key references to let them know what’s happening. Tell them you will be “hanging out with our friend Kaitlyn on Saturday!” or “going to the park to play!” and keep things fun, lighthearted, and casual. Families have shared that this tip is especially helpful if they have a particularly shy child.
- We've been babysitters. We're used to getting to know kids. We have cameras that we bring for your kids to allow them to play around and take photos from their perspective as well during the session as we take pictures of them. This camera allows them to have some fun (not during the whole session, only for a small part) while also getting some neat perspective photos to add to your gallery (which will be labeled accordingly upon gallery delivery). Most kids are naturally inclined to want to take pictures with our camera anyways, so why not let them have their own for a little while!
- Brainstorm about specific props, mementos, or special types of images you want captured. Some families bring heirloom quilts, a special stuffed animal, an embroidered keepsake, etc. Some families know they want a very specific type of photograph taken. If you have these preferences, be sure to brainstorm them in advance and let me know as well!
- And of course, make sure everyone gets a great night’s sleep and eats a good meal beforehand.