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How to Make the Most of Your Engagement Photo Sesh

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If you recently got engaged, you've probably got engagement pictures on the brain. You've decided that you want to get some stunning photos of you and your partner to hang up around the house, but you're also probably wondering how you can make sure you look your best in every shot. While a good photographer can work some serious magic behind the lens, a lot of how your pictures turn out has to do with which outfit you decide to rock. We had a chat with California-based photographer,  Braedon Flynn to find out how you can make the most of your pre-wedding photo sesh...  [[square_card_image_id: 1809434]]
So, a couple just got engaged. How soon should they book a photographer and start planning their shoot?
I generally tell couples that when they take their engagement photos depends on how they plan to use them. Do you want to use the photos for a save-the-date? Or are you hoping to make an engagement album before the wedding? If neither of those things is up for consideration, then the timing doesn't really matter. But keep in mind that scheduling gets more challenging when wedding season is in full swing." 
What should a couple wear? 
"I like to encourage couples to do a little shopping or to hire a stylist to help them pick out THE outfit. I don't think couples need to be matchy-matchy, but I do always recommend they wear something they love themselves in. Don't wear something that isn't you and don't make your fiance wear something that isn't him/her. I also advise couples to coordinate their looks. You should either both be dressy or both have a casual outfit, and the colors, style, patterns you choose should definitely be coordinated." Is there any look you'd say is "off limits"? "Avoid wearing matching blue jeans and white polo shirts. Other than that, do whatever is you." 
How much is too much when it comes to hair and makeup? 
"Some brides use their engagement photos as an opportunity to do their trial run for their hair and makeup, which is smart. Regardless, you're still paying a decent amount of money for and taking the time to have these photos shot, so you might as well look your best. Don't go crazy and make sure you look like you in the end, but it never hurts to have a professional prep you for the shoot."
Do you have any advice on how couples should pick out a location for their shoot? 
"I love shooting couples in places that are meaningful to them. I generally ask them what sort of a feel they want and then I help them think through all the possible locations. The place should be a reflection of who they are as a couple." "It's also important to think through what kind of vibe you're looking for. Some couples who are having a rustic wedding want their engagement photos to have more of an urban feel, and vice versa. And sometimes, couples are looking for a look similar to what their wedding will be like. Either way, keep that in mind as you pick a location." 
What can couples do to make sure they don't look awkward while smiling, kissing, and posing? 
"95% of the couples I talk to will tell me they're not good in front of the camera or will say they're not photogenic. I even get that from people in the entertainment world. Part of what's great about the engagement session is that if you're nervous going into the shoot, just think of it as a chance to get to know your photographer and see how he/she shoots. By the end of the day, couples are usually saying, 'Wow! That was easier than I thought'." "And for me, I tell couples that the shoot is just a time for us to hang out for an afternoon, so on the wedding day, when I'm showing up, I'm giving hugs and high fives instead trying to get to know the couple." 
Second outfit: yes or no? 
"Sure, why not? But it's not necessary. I think couples see what everyone else is doing on the blogs and on Facebook, but it's not something you have to do. I think it makes the most sense to change your look if you're switching locations or want to get a different feel during the shoot." What are your thoughts on involving the family pet in the photo shoot? "Unless you have someone along that is going to take care of the animal, it will be a pain. You don't really want your dog in every photo and it ends up taking away from what you want. But if someone brings a pet, or comes along to manage the pet, then go for it." 
Any parting words of advice for couples as they prepare for their close up?
 "Don't stress about the shoot. It will be fine and it will be fun. The more you can relax and just be you, the better the photos will come out."  Braedon Flynn is a Los Angeles-based photographer with a focus on the editorial and lifestyle genres of photography. He has experience shooting for clothing companies and bands, and loves to make his photographs personal. He shoots weddings and engagement sessions to look natural, relaxed, and real. Check him out on FacebookTwitter, and Instagram.  
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