Preparing For Your Engagement Shoot

The Vibe

I want your images to reflect you and your relationship. If you’re not super cuddly together but are all about that fun and laughter, we will can and will lean into that.
Overall, I want you to enjoy the session, so if there’s anything you strongly feel is not you, please feel free to speak up. We have so many other things we can do, so please don’t just oblige.

Ultimately, the goal of the session is;

  1. We get to know each other and you get familiar with how I work

  2. You get some valuable time in front of the camera to get comfortable (if you’re not already)

  3. You have a fun experience together

  4. We capture some beautiful, fun and romantic images of you both to look back on - adding to your love story

Some couples are a little more natural in front of the camera from the start, others take a little time warming up and need a little guidance. Either of the above is completely fine. That’s what I’m here for. To react to what I’m seeing, hearing and feeling from you, and then help guide you through to ensure that we get stunning images. I’ve got your back. 😊

Outfit Selection

I have 4 very basic pieces of advice for what to wear (and what not to wear)

  1. Keep it simple

  2. Keep it comfortable

  3. Keep it complimentary

  4. Keep it location and weather/season appropriate

Simple
I’d avoid anything too busy and complicated. I’m talking graphics and logos, busy patterns, and sports wear (such as sports shirts and gym wear - may seem obvious, but I’m talking from experience). Anything that would pull focus from your faces, the emotion, and moments we capture. Your love and connection should be the main focus.

Comfort
First, think movement, then think temperature. I highly suggest avoiding anything too tight or too loose as it can be a faff for you having to constantly adjust and mess around with your clothes.

Keep it Complimentary
It’s best to avoid matching colours with each other - you’re a couple, not twins 😂
Instead, I advise wearing colours that compliment each other, or shades of the same hue.
A very practical tip for outdoor shoots is to wear earthy tones. It helps tie in yourselves with the natural surroundings.

Location and Weather/Season Appropriate
This ties in a bit with comfort again, as we don’t want you freezing or overheating, but equally, t-shirt and shorts in the snow will look a bit odd!

Big jackets, boots and an umbrella is absolutely fine if that’s what’s called for.

Additional Tips

Less is more
Ideally, you’ll want to have your hands free and pockets empty (phone/wallet/key bulges aren’t ideal), so I recommend leaving as much as you can in the car/at home, or bringing a small bag that you can fit everything to keep everything together and safe between shots.

Jewellery
Again, I recommend keeping it simple on this front.

Smart Watches
If you’re a smart watch wearer, I advise removing it for the shoot or swapping it for a regular/mechanical watch. I love my smartwatch, and usually wouldn’t part with it, but trust me, it can take an otherwise classic image and pull you right out of it. And don’t worry if you have tan lines from your strap, that tan line will still look better than even the sleekest Fitbit or Apple Watch.

Props
If you have a strong vision for something that you would like to include, feel free to bring it, just bear in mind the above advice (Less is more & location/weather appropriate).
Some prop examples are: a blanket/picnic basket, umbrella, hats, your engagement ring box, flowers, sparklers, and signs/banners.
If you have ideas about things you would like to include in your shoot, feel free to drop me a message and we can work something out, and if props are not your thing, no problems! Most people don’t, so I don’t want you to feel like it’s a requirement.

Picking the Right Wedding Photographer for You

Congratulations on your engagement! Now that the excitement is settling in, it's time to tackle another important aspect of your wedding journey – finding the perfect photographer to capture those magical moments. Here are my top tips to help you navigate the process without breaking a sweat.

Start Early, Stay Calm

The Early Bird Catches the Photographer

Begin your search as soon as possible. Wedding photographers are in demand and often get booked up years in advance, so give yourself the luxury of time to explore options and find someone whose work, approach, and personality resonates with your vision.

Define Your Style

Picture Your Perfect Day

Take a moment to imagine your dream wedding album. Do you prefer classic, timeless shots, or are you more inclined towards a modern, documentary-style candid approach? Knowing your style will guide you in selecting a photographer whose portfolio aligns with your aesthetic.

Set a Realistic Budget

Balancing Act

Weddings can be expensive, but photography is an investment in memories that will last a lifetime. Set a realistic budget that reflects your priorities. Don't forget to consider packages that might include engagement sessions, additional coverage/photographers, or products to make your budget go further.

Connect on a Personal Level

It's More Than Just Business

Your photographer will be with you throughout one of the most intimate days of your life, so it’s really important to ensure that you vibe well with them. Schedule a meeting or a video call to discuss your expectations, ask questions, and get to know the person behind the lens.

If you want a list of questions to ask your potential photographer when you do chat, check out another of my blogs - 8 Essential Questions For Your Wedding Photographer

Review Full Wedding Albums

Beyond the Highlight Reel

Don't be fooled by stunning highlight reels. Ask to see full wedding galleries/albums to get a sense of a photographer's consistency and storytelling abilities. This will help manage your expectations and ensure you love every moment captured.

Read Reviews and Ask for References

Word of Mouth Matters

Check online reviews and ask for references from past clients. A good photographer will have a trail of happy couples singing their praises. Hearing about real experiences can provide valuable insights into their professionalism, work ethic, and personality.

Be Clear About Expectations

Communicate, Communicate, Communicate

Not everyone, at least in my experience, will have a clear vision or expectations of their wedding photography - and that’s completely normal and totally cool - I mean after all, that’s a big part of why you are hiring us, right?

But if you do have a vision then definitely clearly communicate your expectations, preferences, and any must-have shots. A good photographer will appreciate your input, be collaborative, and work to exceed your expectations.

In Conclusion

Finding the right wedding photographer may seem daunting, but with a bit of early planning and hopefully not a little better understanding of the process, you should be well on your way to booking someone who will capture your special day in a way that reflects your vibe.

Ready to move forward with your photography journey now? Let’s chat and see if we would be a good fit to work together.

Happy planning!

8 Essential Questions for your Wedding Photographer

Choosing the right photographer for you and your big day is an important decision, and a pretty big one. Potentially even overwhelming!

I mean, you’ve probably not done this before and have no idea where to start, what’s normal, and what to ask.

It’s all good though, I’ve got you!

Let's get you armed with some killer questions for your potential wedding photographer to hopefully turn that overwhelm to overexcitement!

1. Understanding the Style

Ask: "How would you describe your photography style & approach?"

Why it Matters: A photographer's style goes beyond what the images look like, it’s also how they achieve those results. Knowing the photographer's approach is just as key as loving their images.

2. Experience Matters

Ask: "How long have you been photographing weddings and many many have you shot?"

Why it Matters: Experience & consistency speaks volumes. Check out my portfolio for a glimpse into the stories I've had the honour of capturing.

3. Approach

Ask: "Can you talk us through your approach to a typical wedding"

Why it Matters: It’s an insight into their creativity, professionalism, and flexibility and how they will fit in with your day.

4. Navigating Challenges

Ask: "How do you handle unexpected challenges during a shoot?"

Why it Matters: Weddings are unpredictable. Being prepared and adaptable ensures your day is captured seamlessly, even when things don't go as planned.

5. Budget Transparency

Ask: "Can you break down your pricing and any additional costs?"

Why it Matters: No surprises here. I believe in transparent pricing, ensuring you know exactly what you're investing in.

6. Pre-Wedding Shoots and Additional Services

Ask: "Do you offer any additional services or products?"

Why it Matters: Some moments deserve extra attention. Explore options like pre-wedding shoots, 2nd photographers, and products to make your photography experience truly unique.

7. Backup Plans

Ask: "What's your backup plan in case of equipment failure or unforeseen circumstances?"

Why it Matters: Preparedness is key! What’s the plan if a camera/lens fails or the photographer is unfit to work?

8. Communication

Ask: "How will we stay in touch before, during, and after the wedding?"

Why it Matters: Clear communication ensures everyone is on the same page. I'm committed to keeping the lines open at every stage of the journey.

Final Thoughts:

Choosing a photographer is about more than pictures, it’s finding someone who gets your vibe. And just as important as your photographer's answers to these questions, is how they make you feel when answering them. Do you feel in safe hands?

You’ll be spending a lot of time with your photographer on the day, so you definitely want to make sure that your personalities gel.

Ready to start your photography journey? Let's chat and see if we’d be a good fit to work together.

Naomi & Elliot

What a day and what a ceremony! One of the most emotional I’ve ever been part of.

We started off late afternoon one of Hotel Du Vin’s deluxe suites for Naomi’s and her bridesmaid’s preparations before a short trip down the road to The Barn.

The ceremony was held in The Barns lovely conservatory, and with all the windows and doors fully opened it was stunning. So much light for me to take advantage of!!! I loved it!

As mentioned before, the ceremony was really lovely and emotional. The love these two have for one another radiates from them! Many tears were shed. I even got a little choked up myself!

The rest of the day was very much the perfect balance between great vibes and a party atmosphere mixed with a few more beautiful and emotional moments. Especially the first dance and father of the bride dance!

The entire day was stunning from start to finish and I had such a great time being part of Naomi and Elliot’s very special day.

Town: Tunbridge Wells, UK
Ceremony & Reception:
The Barn
Makeup Artist:
Makeup By Dani
Bouquets: Emma Bullen

Kinsey & Omeed

Kinsey & Omeed’s Wedding day was without a doubt the most I have laughed at a wedding in my entire career as a wedding photographer to date! I was booked to cover half of their day, but I wish I could have stayed all day! The entire time I was with them and their lovely guests it was non-stop laughter, goofs, and smiles. It was such a genuine pleasure to capture their wedding day for them.

Town: Tunbridge Wells, UK
Ceremony:
The Mansion House
Reception: Woods Restaurant