Engagement Photo Suggestions

So, besides having relatively recently been a bride (I can't believe it's already almost 6 months!), I'm also a photographer and have officially done several "engagement shoots". So here are a few tips that I have for anyone choosing to book one.

#1 (this is #1 for a reason!): When thinking of your location, your clothes, hair, shoes and what types of poses you might want to do, keep this in mind: BE COMFORTABLE! Don't go anywhere, or wear or do anything that makes you feel awkward. Photographer's pose suggestion feel a bit forced? Let them know and adjust to be more comfortable and relaxed. Trust me, if you aren't feelin' it, it will show in the photos.

#2: There are 5 things I suggest you consider when choosing an outfit:

Comfort - If you'll be climbing around on rocks or walking on the beach, flip-flops would likely be a better idea than stilettos. Long sleeves and/or layers on a warm day could make you sweaty and you could freeze if it's cool out without a sweater!

Location - As aforementioned, be sure you're comfortable. Also remember where you're going and dress for the place. A cocktail dress and suit isn't necessarily appropriate for urban or beach photos.

Color: Magenta, blues, greens, purples, oranges and other "jewel tone" colors can generally work out well in just about any situation, but don't be afraid to throw some more neutral colors into it. Try to stay away from busy patterns. Wear the color(s) that you think complement you best.

What (S)He's Wearing - Matching exactly isn't suggested or recommended, but planning your outfit(s) to coordinate well definitely is.

Looking Like Yourself - Don't feel that you have to "dress up" to look great in your photos!

#3: (This is mostly for you, ladies) Let your fiance(e) wear what (s)he wants! I understand that you might not think shorts are "nice" enough or that her wearing jeans and not a dress may be "too casual", but, suggestions aside, you really should just let them decide.

#4: Look around at photos online or in magazines and send any you'd like to try to recreate to your photographer ahead of time (or bring them with you to your session). There are no guarantees that the situation will be perfect to capture them, but there's no harm in trying! Besides that, it can give your photographer a better idea of what you'd like.

E-Session with Amy & Ken

I took some photos of Ken & Amy on Saturday at this fantastic discovery (the Orcutt Horticultural Ranch Park in West Hills, CA). Ken works with my husband (who was also there working as my great assistant) and he and Amy will be getting married in Santa Cruz next month.

Here are a few of my favorites:









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Engagement Photoshoot with Jaimi & Brian at the Ventura Harbor

I met up with Jaimi & Brian at the Ventura Harbor on July 19th and we were all surprised to find Pirate Days going in full-swing. We went across the way to the beach for the majority of the shoot.









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Boys & Girls Clubs Goleta Basketball Shoot

I went to the Goleta Boys & Girls Club yesterday and had a portrait session with one of their basketball teams. The kids were unsurprisingly adorable and the parents very sweet people.

Here are a few of my favorites from the shoot.








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"The Snake"

Took some photos on "The Snake" today (Mulholland Drive near Kanan).

A few of my favorites:




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Boys & Girls Clubs Las Virgenes - Thousand Oaks Baseball Practice

Happened to catch today's baseball practice at BGC Thousand Oaks on Hillcrest Drive and snapped some photos of the kids.







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