Tips To Feel At Ease During Your Engagement Session
It’s a fact: some people feel a little nervous or uneasy in front of the camera. Whether it’s because they’re just new to it or they had a bad experience, like getting mauled by a tiger at a previous couples session, there are certain things that can help bring the calm. Below, I’ve listed twelve tips that will move you from “Worried” to “Excited” when thinking about your engagement session.
Talk it out - Open communication with both your partner and the photographer is key to creating a great experience. Make your thoughts known and keep everyone on the same page.
Choose a meaningful location - Talk it over with your partner and choose a location that fits your personality. If you’re adventurous why not enjoy nature and take a hike, if you love the city make it your backdrop. The more specific the location is to you the more relaxed and stress-free the session will feel. This also makes the images that much more special to your relationship.
Engage with each other - Instead of focusing solely on the camera, interact with your partner. Talk, laugh, hold hands, embrace or even dance. Being true to yourselves will typically produce the most natural-looking photos.
Trust your photographer - I mean, you hired them for a reason right? Ask questions and get a feeling for who they are before the session takes place. This way you will already have an idea of how they do things and what their approach is like.
Comfort first - Choose outfits that make you feel confident and comfortable. Believe me, your images will show if you’re not feeling right about something.
Always be learning - It’s usually helpful to have an idea of how the session will go down. Knowing a few different stances and understanding the photographer’s methods can go a long way to feeling comfortable in front of the camera. I know, personally, I like to review some basic stances with my couples before the session begins. This helps them relax because it keeps them “In the know” and we move through the session together.
Take a breath - Take deep breaths leading up to your session, especially if you feel nervous. Sometimes people can tense up but this normally goes away very quickly. I typically tell my couples that they’ll feel themselves loosen up after ten or fifteen minutes.
Have fun - Treat the session as a fun date idea. Play games, tell jokes or bring up shared experiences to lighten the mood. This is your time so make the most of it.
Focus on each other - While it may be a bit much to say “Forget about the camera,” you should try your best to be in the moment with your partner. Think about the connection you share. This mindset often leads to more genuine expressions and emotions.
Be candid - Some of the most REAL moments happen in-between the planned ones. Don’t be worried if the camera is going off when you’re not expecting it - your photographer is just trying to capture the authenticity.
Take a break - If, at any point, you feel overwhelmed just share what you’re feeling. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with taking a few minutes to center yourself and come back stronger than ever.
Bring props - Incorporate props or activities that reflect your interests. This can add a personal touch to the images.
Some people will naturally feel a little nervous when in front of the camera. This is okay and definitely something that anyone can work through by following the steps above. It’s good to remind yourself that your photographer is on your side and wants you to feel comfortable. Best of luck with your next session!