At-home engagement photoshoots have become very popular, as people choose to document their engagement in their own comfortable surroundings. Plus, if you’re looking for ways to make your wedding (and pre-wedding activities) unique, nothing is more personal than doing your photo session among your own things, furniture, and environment. We spoke to local pros for tips so that your at-home engagement photoshoot goes off without a hitch.
WHAT TO WEAR (AND OTHER KEY PREP)
Since you’re shooting at home, you literally have your whole closet at your fingertips. But have some options ready (probably 3 is enough) so your photographer isn’t waiting around. The key is to choose outfits that you would normally wear. If you’re a casual couple, this isn’t the time to go formal, and if you usually wear more dressed-up attire, don’t assume PJs and bathrobes will look cute. (You’ll come off looking like you’re trying too hard.) Choosing to wear what best describes your style will make your images look relaxed, real, and therefore, special.
When it comes to hair and make-up for the bride-to-be, that’s a personal decision. If you feel most comfortable doing it yourself, go for it. (Remember this make-up doesn’t have to last as long as on an entire wedding day). But if you feel like you need a little help, this is a great time to treat yourself to a pro!
Wedding Guys Wisdom: This might just be the perfect time to do a trial with a hair and/or make-up artist you’re considering for your wedding day.
WHERE TO DO AN AT-HOME ENGAGEMENT PHOTOSHOOT
“Keep an eye out for where the best lighting is and at what time of day it is,” says Aaron and KC Keen of Winsome Photography. “We always choose where the best lighting is. We look for rooms with lots of natural light from windows or skylights. It’s also fun to do [some shots] outside, around the yard, or on the front steps if the light is good.”
As for your backdrop, the Keens suggest keeping clutter to a minimum as too much in the room can be distracting, but don’t make the room too sparse either, “Flowers or plants are always a great detail to include if you’re into that sort of thing.”
KEEP IT COMFY
Probably the number one tip photographers told us was to keep it real if you want genuine shots and your personalities to shine through. As the Keens put it, “Don’t make it staged! Think of real things you both love to do and do on the regular that showcases your relationship. Cozy and relaxed is the whole reason why doing an in-home sessions is the best!” If you’d like some action shots, think of what you do at home together to keep it all looking natural. Bring out a snack that you can have together, a board game, or drinks — whatever you’d like should you want some shots that are less posed.
USE SOCIAL MEDIA FOR INSPO
If all else fails, check out Instagram or Pinterest for how creative couples have made at-home photoshoots interesting and fun suggest the Keens of Winsome Photography.
All images by Winsome Photography
