The Inn at Laguna Beach // Indian Elopement wedding

Venue: The Inn at Laguna Beach

Orange County Engagement Session // Dana Point, CA

Tips for the engagement session

Why take engagement photos

Engagement photos are a great way for you to connect with your photographer before the wedding day. If either one of you have any sort of anxiety when it comes to being in front of the camera, the session will often alleviate those fears, boosting your confidence and making the wedding day so much more enjoyable. Plus, it is nice to have professional photos of the two of you besides in a wedding gown and suit.

Don’t

-Wait until last minute to choose outfits
-Dress so formal you feel uncomfortable or too stiff, this will translate in your photos
-Wear too tight or high or dresses/skirts, this limits the amount of poses
-Wear uncomfortable shoes
-Wear bold patterns, bright colors, logos
-Be too matchy

Do

-Shop/prepare your outfits weeks in advance
-Choose something comfortable, fitting your style and physically comfortable
-Wear well-fitted clothing, try them on well beforehand
-Wear clothing that allows for movement
-Email your outfits over if you’re feeling stuck or need an extra opinion
-Bring multiple outfits/choices. Consider hats, jackets, scarves or other accessories/layers.
-Pastel or Muted tones are more flattering on skin/face.
-Complement each other’s outfits
-Use bold colors sparingly, away from face (shoes, skirts, etc.)
-Consider syncing HMUA trial with engagement date

When to take engagement photos
Typically save the date cards will go out about 6 to 8 months before the wedding, so planning an engagement session at least a month before that is a great idea. If there needs to be a quick turnaround it is possible, but depends upon the photographers editing schedule and availability.

Where to take engagement photos
There's so many great locations within Southern California: trails, trees, fields, urban, historical, architecture, missions, and of course many beaches. Please let your photographer know what location type/s you’re interested in and we can share local options to match. See more location here