1. Location – Choosing your photo shoot location is super intentional. Yes, of course you can ask your photographer for recommendations, but is there a spot that is special to you two? Maybe at the spot you had your first date, in the city you met or have spent a lot of time together? Picking a location that you have lots of memories will make your photos that much more special.
You can even choose a location you have always dreamed of going! Choosing a spot you two want to explore together is a great option and you will have documented photos of your first time adventure of this location.
2. Think Logistically – Think about the conditions and locations you are going to be shooting in and plan around it. If you are going to be hiking around the mountains, bring shoes with good grip and you won’t twist your ankles in. If shooting on a sandy beach, it would look weird if you’re wearing shoes (ps heels are almost always a bad idea in most scenarios, unless you’re freakishly good at walking in them haha). If it’s freezing cold outside, bring lots of layers and warm clothes with wool socks and boots. If it’s going to be hot, bring clothes that can breathe more so you don’t have sweaty pit stains in the photos. Be as comfortable as you can be!
3. Bring multiple outfits – Bringing layers or separate outfit options will add depth and variety in your gallery. This will give you a chance to have multiple looks and show off some of your favorite pieces!
Bring at least two outfits or if you won’t have time for an outfit chance, adding a layer like a denim jacket will add variety to photos too!
4. Time – Choosing a time that fits with the vibe of your shoot will play a huge part in your session. Are you going for that more golden hour, sun flare, warm photos? An hour and a half before sunset would be an ideal time to start. Interested in moody blue hour photos? Plan your shoot 30 minutes before sunset to get some of those photos with sun and you will have approx 20-30 minutes after the sun sets to get those blue hour photos!
Sunrise sessions are underrated and honestly some of my favorite times to photograph! Yes, getting ready early might sound tiresome…but getting all dressed up, starting your day with a shoot with ya hype girl (cough, cough, me!), you will be ready for the day, and you get to show off your cute fit and make up for the rest of the day! The best time for sunrise photos is starting 5 minutes before sunrise, to catch the moment the sun rises!
5. Permits – One thing to consider when booking your session is if you need a photo permit to photograph at the location. The internet is our friend and with a simple Google search you can typically find out if you need to obtain a photo permit.
Some permits can take days to receive and some weeks. Proper planning and research will ensure no fees or fines will need to be paid later.
I hope some of those tips will help you as you plan your next photo shoot!
– Raquel
