How to prepare for your columbia, Mo Engagement Session With Kyla TAylor Photography

HECK YEAH!!! You have your engagement photos booked and are anxiously (& hopefully excitedly) awaiting the day! With over 100 couple & engagement sessions under my belt, I wanted to highlight ten pieces of advice I like to give for prepping for couples sessions. So sit back, relax & learn how to get the most out of your future engagement session!

1. Take Some Time to Connect Beforehand

I put this at number one for a reason! If there is one thing that will make all the difference in your engagement shoot, it's whether or not you and your fiance have had quality time together prior to the shoot. We've all been there – life gets crazy and uninterrupted time together takes a backseat. I get it! But, take some time to make this a priority! Nothing gets you in the mood to get those dreamy engagement shots like feeling totally in love with the person you're taking them with!

2. Visit a Meaningful Location

Heck yeah I love this one! So much so that if you've gotten my location guide, you know I have a spot for this point on there. I have had clients visit their favorite bar, the spot of their first date, ice cream shops, the campus they met at, and many many more! My favorite part of this tip? You will end up with photos that are so uniquely you! Do home projects all the time? Let's roam the aisles of the local hardware store! Hiking is how you connect best? Let's make your engagement session an adventure! Take some time and reflect before your shoot on places that have been important in your relationship and talk to your photographer about incorporating some of them!

3. Bring Your Pet

Yes please! This is a no-brainer and always highly encouraged by me! Check out the photos below for all the bribing you'll need :-)

4. Dress to Fit YOUR Style

I get it, you've been stalking the latest trends on TikTok and you want to look GOOD for your engagement photos. And there is absolutely nothing wrong with that! Just remember, trends are ever-changing and you want your engagement photos to look natural! Opt for something that feels classically you. Another pro-tip – coordinate with your partner instead of matching!

5. Bring Fun Props (Champagne Always!)

I think props can have a bad rap for being overly-cheesy, but I'm here to tell you they can be so fun & really elevate your photos. Think flower bouquets, fun sunglasses, champagne, confetti! These small details can add so much style to a shoot.

6. Make a Date Day Out of It

Engagement photos are meant to be a connection point! I think it is so easy to get wrapped up in checking it off the never-ending wedding to-do list, but really this should be quality time with your person. So, make it that! Go hiking in the morning, get dinner after, plan your favorite things around the shoot. If you come to the shoot already feeling like you've had a full day to connect, you best believe it will show in the photos!

7. Wear something you feel comfortable in from All Angles

Don't show up in a dress that you will have to constantly pull down or shoes that you can barely walk in. Do a trial run with your outfit beforehand and check to make sure you love how it looks from the front, back and sides – your photos won't just be one stagnant pose, so make sure your outfit is conducive to movement!

8. Consider Professional Hair and Makeup

How many times in your life do you get to take engagement photos? Go all out! There is no better feeling than freshly done hair and makeup and your confidence will shine through in photos! Some of my favorite vendors in Columbia, MO are Makeup by Maggie and Uplifted Salon!

9. Let Your Guard Down!

I get it, engagement photos are probably the first time you are taking professional photos with your partner! I'll admit, it can feel a little awkward at first, but once we get through that initial shock factor, it can become so natural! Remember, the whole point is to have fun and show off your love – so relax, sit back, and let your photographer guide you!

10. Find a Photographer That Fits Your Style & That You Can Connect To!

This tip is oh-so important! Before you pick your photographer, go through their social media and website. See if you like the editing style and posing and reach out ahead of time with any questions! If you are looking for a fun, true-to-color engagement and wedding photographer in Columbia, MO, reach out to Kyla Taylor Photography today!