Imagine you’re walking hand in hand with your partner, the sun casting a golden glow around you, the air filled with laughter and love. These are the moments engagement photos are meant to capture - timeless snapshots of your journey toward forever.
But when is the best time to take these pictures to ensure they reflect your unique story perfectly? Let's read the full article and find out!
Why Timing Matters for Engagement Photos
Engagement pictures aren’t just beautiful keepsakes; they’re often used for save-the-dates, wedding websites, or even framed decor at your wedding. Choosing the right time for these photos ensures that everything - from the lighting to the backdrop to your outfits - aligns with your vision.
Here are a few key considerations to help you decide the best time to take your engagement pictures.
1. Right After Your Engagement
If you’re bursting with excitement and can’t wait to share the news, scheduling your engagement photos soon after the proposal is a great idea.
- Why It’s Great: Your joy and love will feel fresh and radiant in the photos.
- Things to Consider: You may need to plan your outfits and location quickly, so flexibility is key.
Taking photos early is perfect if you want to use them for announcements or save-the-date cards.
Get to know the Do’s & Don’ts for Engagement Photoshoot!
2. Think About the Seasons
The time of year plays a huge role in the vibe of your engagement photos.
- Spring: Picture blooming flowers, pastel colors, and a feeling of renewal. Spring offers soft lighting and a romantic atmosphere.
- Summer: If you love sunshine and vibrant greenery, summer is ideal. Be mindful of avoiding the hottest times of day for your session.
- Fall: Autumn engagement photos are a favorite for their cozy, warm tones and stunning foliage. Consider this if you love earthy colors and golden light.
- Winter: For couples who adore snowy landscapes or holiday themes, winter photos can feel magical and intimate.
The season you choose should reflect your personality and preferences as a couple.
3. Align with Your Wedding Date
When you’re planning your engagement photo session, consider how close it is to your wedding day.
- 6–12 Months Before: This is the sweet spot for most couples. It gives you enough time to use the photos for invitations and plan without feeling rushed.
- Closer to the Wedding: If you’re planning a shorter engagement, you can schedule the session a few months before the wedding.
The goal is to allow enough time for editing, printing, and any creative uses of your photos.
4. Consider Your Venue or Theme
If your wedding has a particular theme or venue, you can tie this into your engagement photos.
- Venue Matching: Taking photos at or near your wedding venue gives a sneak peek of your big day.
- Theme Inspiration: If your wedding has a rustic, beachy, or glamorous vibe, reflect that in your engagement session.
Aligning the style of your engagement photos with your wedding helps create a cohesive story.
Best Location for Engagement Sessions in Colorado
5. Think About Light and Time of Day
The time of day can make a significant difference in the outcome of your photos.
- Golden Hour: The hour after sunrise or before sunset offers soft, flattering light for dreamy pictures.
- Midday: While the light is harsher at noon, shaded areas or indoor locations can work beautifully.
- Evening/Night: For a unique twist, you can schedule your session for nighttime with creative lighting.
Work with your photographer to decide what suits your vision best.
6. Destination Photos? Plan Ahead
If you’re dreaming of a destination engagement shoot, plan your timing carefully.
- Why It’s Special: Scenic backdrops like beaches, mountains, or city skylines create memorable photos.
- Things to Consider: Allow time for travel, permits (if needed), and weather variations at your chosen location.
Destination shoots require extra coordination, but the results are worth it!
7. Don’t Forget Your Photographer’s Schedule
Your photographer’s availability is an essential factor. Many talented photographers book months in advance, especially during peak wedding seasons.
- Pro Tip: Book your photographer as soon as possible and coordinate schedules early.
Their expertise can guide you on the best timing for optimal results.
Tip: When planning your engagement photos, it's essential to work with a photographer who understands your style and personality. At Kelly Photo & Design, Kelly specializes in creating a relaxed and enjoyable experience for couples, ensuring that your true essence shines through in every shot.
Whether you prefer a laid-back outdoor session or a more formal, styled shoot, she is here to guide you every step of the way. Her goal is to capture not just beautiful pictures, but the love, joy, and excitement that define your relationship. With us, you can be confident that your engagement photos will reflect the uniqueness of your love story. Let’s make this moment unforgettable!
8. Weekdays vs. Weekends
Choosing the right day for your engagement shoot is another important decision. While weekends might seem like the obvious choice, consider the crowds and the availability of your photographer.
- Weekdays: Weekday sessions are often the best option for couples who want a more relaxed atmosphere. There will be fewer people at popular locations, allowing you to get shots without the distractions of large crowds. Plus, weekday rates with some photographers can be lower, which can save you money.
- Weekends: While weekend sessions are easier for many people to schedule, they can be busier at popular locations. If you’re set on a weekend shoot, consider a morning or evening time slot to avoid the midday rush.
What to Avoid
While it’s fun to plan for your engagement shoot, there are also some things you’ll want to avoid to ensure a smooth process:
- Avoid Last-Minute Scheduling: Don’t wait until the last minute to book your shoot. Photographers often have busy schedules, especially during peak wedding seasons, so plan ahead to secure your spot.
- Avoid Overcomplicating the Shoot: While it’s great to have a vision, don’t overthink it. The most important thing is that you and your partner enjoy the moment. Keep it simple and authentic.
- Avoid Stressing Over Perfection: No photo shoot is perfect, and that’s okay! The beauty of engagement photos is in capturing real, raw moments between you and your partner. Don’t focus too much on making everything “perfect.”
- Avoid Major Holidays or Busy Periods: While holidays and long weekends can seem like the perfect time to schedule your engagement session, they can actually be quite hectic. You don’t want your photos to feel rushed or stressful. If you’re planning on taking your photos during a busy period, such as around Christmas, Thanksgiving, or New Year's, make sure to book your photographer in advance and give yourself some buffer time.
When to take engagement pictures depends on your style, schedule, and story. Whether you’re capturing the first days of your engagement, planning around your wedding, or celebrating a special moment, the right timing will make your photos feel magical.
These photos are more than images - they’re memories frozen in time. So, choose a time that reflects your love, and enjoy the journey of creating them!
