Your Guide to Engagement Photography

Tips for a Successful Photoshoot

We are so excited to get started with you! If your package includes an engagement photoshoot, here’s a helpful guide to ensure your session goes smoothly and creates beautiful memories.

1. Why Engagement Photos Matter

Engagement photos are a wonderful way to capture the excitement and love of this special time in your lives. Not only are they keepsakes of your unique love story, but they also serve as perfect additions to your save-the-date cards, wedding websites, or even your wedding décor. More importantly, the engagement session is a fantastic way for us to connect and get to know each other before the big day!

We recommend scheduling your engagement session 3-6 months before your wedding date. This timeline gives you plenty of time to use your photos for save-the-dates and other wedding-related needs while avoiding the busy wedding planning period.

2. Preparing for Your Engagement Photoshoot

a. Discuss Your Vision

• Share Your Story: Tell us about how you met, what you love most about each other, and your favorite activities together.

• Style Preference: Choose a vibe that fits your personality—romantic, playful, elegant, boho, urban, or something else!

• Locations: Pick locations that are meaningful to you or match your theme. Here are some ideas:

  • Romantic: A quiet beach or scenic park.

  • Urban: City streets, coffee shops, or rooftops.

  • Cultural: Historic sites or landmarks.

b. Wardrobe Selection

• Choose outfits that reflect your personalities and coordinate in color and style.

• Avoid bold patterns or logos that might distract from your connection.

• Consider bringing two outfits: one casual and one formal.

• Keep accessories minimal to keep the focus on you as a couple.

• Pro Tip: Wear comfortable shoes, especially if we’re moving between locations.

c. Hair, Makeup, and Grooming

• Professional hair and makeup can give your photos a polished look.

• Men should ensure grooming (haircuts, beard trims, etc.) a few days before the shoot.

• For oily skin, bring blotting paper or translucent powder for touch-ups.

d. Inspiration

• Check out Pinterest, Instagram, or our photo galleries for engagement session inspiration.

3. During the Shoot

a. What to Expect

• Natural Posing: We’ll guide you into relaxed, authentic poses that feel natural.

• Interaction: Focus on each other—laugh, hold hands, or steal a kiss.

• Movement: Walk, dance, or spin for candid, dynamic shots.

b. Trust Your Photographer

We’ll direct you through the best lighting, angles, and poses for stunning photos. It’s all about getting that perfect shot, so be patient with any adjustments!

c. Relax and Have Fun

This is your time to celebrate your love story. If you're nervous, start with poses or activities you're both comfortable with. We’re here to make you feel at ease!

4. Timeline

a. Duration

The photoshoot typically lasts 1 to 2 hours, which allows plenty of time to capture different locations and outfit changes while keeping it fun and relaxed.

b. Edited Photos Delivery

Expect your edited photos within 4 weeks after the shoot (unless otherwise agreed). You'll receive a curated selection of about 50 beautifully enhanced images. Please note, we typically avoid engagement sessions between November and April due to weather conditions, unless otherwise arranged.

5. Tips for a Successful Shoot

Feeling a little awkward in front of the camera? It’s completely normal, especially if it’s your first professional photoshoot! Don’t worry, we’ll guide you through relaxed, natural poses. The goal is to capture genuine moments that reflect your unique connection. Here are a few tips to ensure the session is enjoyable:

a. Timing and Lighting

• Golden hour (just after sunrise or before sunset) offers soft, flattering light for stunning photos.

• For midday shoots, find shaded spots to avoid harsh shadows.

b. Bring Essentials

• Water and snacks for energy, especially for outdoor sessions.

• A touch-up kit (lipstick, powder, comb) to refresh throughout the shoot.

• Comfortable shoes for walking between locations.

c. Personal Touches

• Consider bringing meaningful props, such as flowers, a picnic basket, or items from your proposal.

• If your pet is part of your story, feel free to bring them along! Just let us know in advance.

6. After the Photoshoot

a. Reviewing Photos

We’ll share a curated selection of the best images for you to review. You’ll have the opportunity to discuss prints, albums, or digital downloads.

b. Share and Celebrate

Use your engagement photos for wedding announcements, social media posts, or display them as framed art in your home.

7. Rescheduling Policy

We always strive to honor your scheduled date, but there may be times when rescheduling is necessary due to:

• Personal Emergencies: Illness or unforeseen events.

• Bad Weather: Conditions like heavy rain or strong winds could compromise the quality of the shoot.

If we need to reschedule, we’ll work with you to find the earliest available date that works for your schedule. Additionally, if you’re not fully satisfied with your photos, we offer a complimentary reshoot to ensure you love the results.

Wild places might be difficult and timely to get to, but maybe worth the effort to get the picture perfect shot!

8. Locations

Vancouver is home to numerous stunning spots that are perfect for your engagement photos. Here are a few of our favorite locations:

• Stanley Park Seawall: An iconic waterfront path with forests, beaches, and beautiful views.

• Lighthouse Park: Features old-growth forests, rugged coastlines, and ocean views.

• Granville Island: A vibrant area with colorful markets, unique architecture, and waterfront views.

• Kitsilano Beach: Relaxed sandy shores with a view of the North Shore Mountains—perfect for sunset shots.

• Queen Elizabeth Park: Stunning gardens and panoramic city views, ideal for a romantic setting.

• Whytecliff Park: Rugged coastlines and views of Howe Sound, providing a serene atmosphere.

• Pacific Spirit Regional Park: Towering trees and tranquil trails perfect for a natural, secluded feel.

• Jericho Beach: A mix of sandy beaches, grassy fields, and mountain views for a versatile outdoor shoot.

When choosing your location, think about places that hold special meaning or fit your style. We’re happy to help you select the perfect spot for your engagement session.

Final Thoughts

Engagement photoshoots are a wonderful way to create timeless memories that celebrate your unique love story. By working together, trusting your photographer, and staying true to yourselves, your session will be an unforgettable experience.

When you hire Dominic Captures for your engagement photo session, you're not just getting beautiful photos—you’re working with a team that is dedicated to making the entire experience special and personalized. We understand that your engagement is a once-in-a-lifetime moment, and we’re here to capture it in a way that feels authentic and true to your relationship.

Plus, if you book us for your wedding photography and video, your engagement photoshoot is complimentary! Let’s work together to make your engagement and wedding day an unforgettable experience. Contact us today to start planning your perfect engagement session!

Engagement photos can be a statement piece of your love for your significant other. The possibilities are endless!