Top Tips On How To Prepare For Your Couples Photoshoot

July 1, 2020 By sean With 0 Comment

In Couples

Whether it’s an engagement shoot in the run up to your wedding, or you simply want to have a memento of your relationship, a couples photoshoot is an awesome thing to do with your partner. But how do you prepare for your couples photoshoot?

There are a number of factors that can make a wonderful couples photoshoot, but essentially, when planning on how to prepare, there’s just one important thing for you to remember…

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Be yourself!

That’s all there really is to it, I promise. Everything else is just a bonus!

But how exactly do you go about being yourself on the day of the photoshoot? Here are my top tips and some things to think about to help you.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. What type of couple are you?

When you see great pictures of other couples together, usually the thing that stands out is that their personalities really shine through. It’s not just about looking pretty – it’s about really showing who you are, as a couple, in an environment that makes you relaxed.

Take some time before your photoshoot to think about who you are as a couple.

Do you love going on city breaks together, or do you prefer spending time in nature? Is your idea of a great night in getting glammed up and going to a fancy bar, or would you rather be snuggled up at home in front of the fire in your cosiest jumper? Do you like getting up early and seeking out new adventures with your partner, or do you prefer a lazy morning drinking coffee together?

Once you’ve decided what sort of experiences mean the most to you, and the type of environments you feel most comfortable in, your photographer can then tailor your shoot to really capture the essence of you as a couple.

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2. Do you have any meaningful locations?

Although there’s no problem at all just picking somewhere scenic for your photoshoot, it is always better to organise the shoot in a place that really means something to you both.

Perhaps it could be the location of your favourite hike, or the place where you had your first date or day trip together.

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Being in a meaningful place just adds an extra special touch to the shoot.

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3. Plan your outfit

No matter what kind of look you’re going for, planning your outfit for the photoshoot ahead of time is a must!

There’s nothing worse than a last minute panic, or realising that your favourite jumper is in the laundry bin on the morning of the shoot.

How dressed up or down you want to look is up to you, and will depend a lot on the location you’ve chosen and the experience you want to have captured.

Whatever you choose to wear, just make sure you look like you! For instance, if you never normally wear any make-up, going for false eyelashes and red lips for the shoot might not be the best choice.

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Steer clear of brand new outfits. Wear something you’ve worn before and you know fits well and feels comfortable.

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And it’s always good to bring a few different options. It doesn’t need to be a total change of clothes. Even just a few different accessories that you can take on and off, like a jacket, scarf or hat, can help add some variety to the pictures.

You’ll want to think about coordinating with your partner too, both in terms of colour and style! While you don’t want to match completely, avoid totally clashing colours and patterns.

Most importantly, always get advice from the photographer in advance.

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4. Don’t stress about posing

Lots of people worry about not knowing what to do during the photoshoot. Don’t worry. Knowing your photographer’s style is a must when you are looking to prepare for your photoshoot.

My style of shooting is to focus on natural flow. It’s the more natural shots that look the best – the ones where you’re laughing at a joke, or doing something goofy like giving each other piggy backs, or jumping over a gate. I believe in guiding you through the shoot and giving you suggestions.

Couples having fun and being natural; essential for capturing beautifully candid photos.

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It can feel a little nerve-wracking swapping your selfies for a photographer, especially if you’re not used to being in front of the camera, but don’t worry, that’s totally normal.

A big part of a photographer’s role on a photoshoot is to help you relax and feel comfortable, so they can get the best possible shots for you.

Here is a link to some posing inspirations for couples.

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5. Bring a prop

Something that can help with creating a lovely, natural story that will be a reflection of you both. A prop can be something that will help you to relax and forget you are being photographed.

A prop can be anything really, but keep it authentic to who you are as a couple. Perhaps a map if you normally hike together, or a picnic blanket if you love al fresco dining… You can be a creative here!

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6. Bring a pet

If you’re pet lovers, you could bring along your dog and get them in some of the shots. Pets are part of the family, especially if the pet is one you got together; an important part of the couple’s life.

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Think about the location of the shoot, whether pets are allowed and if a suitable space for their personality. A good idea is to bring a friend that could look after your pet when it’s not being photographed; you can relax whilst your pet is being looked after.

Bring some toys and treats, and let your photographer know beforehand.

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7. Leave enough time

I’m Late, I’m Late….

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Photography is all about light! And since I am a photographer that works with predominantly natural light, it is often crucial for us to be on time to take advantage of certain parts of the day when the light creates a specific atmosphere.

Time is also a factor when shooting in places that are closed at a certain hour or become very busy within short spaces of time. It’s not as much fun when we are being rushed or trying to dodge people coming into our shots. It’s also always good for couples to have a photoshoot session on a day off or when they don’t have any plans directly before or after.

Of course, unexpected things can happen! Communicate with your photographer if you are running late or things are not going as planned.

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8. Look for inspiration

It can be really helpful, for the couple and photographer, if you come along with some idea of the kind of photos you like. This makes it much easier, and more fun, when helping you capture them.

Try looking on Pinterest, the Facebook feeds of your favourite couple friends, photography websites, Instagram hashtags, and magazines… There’s inspiration everywhere.

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9. Talk it through with your partner beforehand

Last but by no means least, and this is probably the most important tip of all, chat to your partner before the shoot. Make sure you’re on the same page. Equally, talk about the kind of pictures and poses you both feel comfortable with and what you want out of the photoshoot.

This is your shoot, there’s no right or wrong, but making sure you and your partner share the same vision.

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Summed up…

This can feel quite daunting and a lot to take on. Don’t worry, your photographer will be there to give you the support and guidance you need to prepare for your couples photoshoot. So don’t be shy to ask. Ultimately, it’s about being ready so you can be yourselves; couples having fun and being natural is essential for capturing those beautifully candid photos.

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