You are engaged! Or, maybe you are about to be engaged and you are just doing a little pre-planning.  One should never be under-prepared when it comes to matters of marital bliss.  As a general rule of thumb, engagement photos should be taken about a month or two following your engagement; although, mini "in the moment" engagement shoots are becoming increasingly popular.   

To help keep our Venues brides and grooms in the know,  we sat down with one of our favorite Wedding photographers, Dameron, from Lightbox Living Portraits to get the scoop on some current trends in the engagement photo world.  Here is what she had to say. 

What trends or new ways are people taking engagement photos?

Engagement photos are such a fun way to get to know your wedding photographer and get a little practice in front of their camera! Over the years I've seen couples share their love stories in so many neat and creative ways. Something that's trending now are surprise engagement sessions that take place the moment the proposal begins! This obviously requires a little preplanning and a lot of sneaking around but the savviest of grooms have been able to pull it off. 

What is something every couple should consider for their photos? 

A Few things to consider for your photos are locations, wardrobes, poses and timing! Another thing to consider is what you will be using them for, like on a "Save the date" card! Don't be afraid to share these ideas with your photographer so they can help bring your vision to life. 

A few tips for Engagement photos... 

Think Editorial: When preparing for your photo session, think more editorial, like you're being featured in a magazine! Don't be afraid to accessorize or wear prints, the more textural interest the better and the beauty's in the details. I think it's common for people to think you need to be dressed sort of "plainly" for pictures but that's definitely not the case! Show your personality and more importantly, make sure you're wearing something that you feel like yourself in... the more comfortable you are, the more comfortable you will look in your photos. 

Relax & HAVE FUN! It's totally normal to be nervous but the truth is, Engagement Sessions are loads of fun! Cheers to a toast with your Fiance before your session (or during your session) to ease some of the jitters. The real candid moments make for the best unexpected photos, trust your photographer and their vision, they will guide you in the right direction. 

What should couples consider when choosing a venue for their photos? 

I love when couples consider their own relationship when selecting locations to shoot in... for engagement sessions, consider going back to where you first met, where you had your first date, or just your favorite place to grab a bite to eat together! Consider activities you like doing together too for some fun candid photos. What matters most is that it's meaningful to you. Trending now are "in home" and "lifestyle" sessions which capture candid and genuine moments at home, what better way to start a life together than at home? 

Biggest mistake you think couples make?

The best part about planning for photos is that there's really no wrong way to do it, it's completely reflective of your love story as a couple and so you really can't mess it up if you stay true to yourself. My best advice would be to spend a little time interviewing photographers before booking one for your big day. Be sure to pick one that really suits the two of you and that you click personality wise, you won't have any regrets. :)

Coolest thing you have seen this year?

Lightbox Living Portrait Co just celebrated its 10th Anniversary in the bustling wedding industry (cheers to that!) and I can honestly say that what's "on trend" seems to be ever changing and oh so quickly! This past year I've photographed a lot of doggies as part of the bridal party, a few very intimate "Reflection dances" and came across some wedding traditions from varying hometowns I wasn't privy to before. One of my brides dried the flower petals from a bouquet that her fiance gave her during their surprise Engagement and saved them for her wedding day... We photographed them in her detail shots alongside their wedding rings and invitation suite. I always take pride in photographing the little details that go into making the perfect wedding day but I thought her idea was really special and I loved bringing it to life!

Regardless of the memories you envision creating, capturing them forever is important.  The biggest tip is make sure you are comfortable with the people and the venue you choose - this setting is the backdrop for your happily ever after.