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celebrating OU seniors and Bartlesville and Tulsa families through photography.

Hey, y’all! 

I’m Melanie, the girl behind the lens at Melanie Foster Photography. Whether you’re getting ready for your upcoming OU senior or your Bartlesville or Tulsa family photography experience, I hope you’ll stay a while, pick up a few tips, and be inspired for your own MFP photo session! 

4 Tips For Engagement Photos – Oklahoma Photographer

Engagement

I remember the first couple of times I had someone take headshots for me. It was a mix of awkward and hesitation and I was not sure I was having it. I was a photographer – how did I not know how to do this? I was so worried about whether or not I would even like the photos that my insecurity got in the way for probably the first half of the session. If I had to guess, I would say most of you all would probably feel the same way. I quickly learned that it takes a bit to warm up and get comfortable, but maybe even more so when you add your significant other into the mix. With a handful of upcoming engagements, I figured now is a pretty good time to share my top 4 things you need to know before you take engagement photos!

Pick a location or activity that is special to you or your relationship.

Have a favorite hobby you two do together on the weekends? Great! Let’s do it! Love to explore the city and find new restaurants? Awesome – let’s walk around town! Do you enjoy hiking or other adventurous activities? Let me know! I LOVE to capture people in their environment, doing things they love. Even if it’s the spot you two got engaged, or the place you first met, or the Mexican restaurant you frequent together every weekend, let’s go make more memories. (Note: since I am a natural light photographer, I do rely on outdoor venues during golden hour to shoot! If you need any ideas, I’m more than happen to share suggestions!)

Coordinate, but don’t match outfits

This is an AWESOME opportunity to get your hair and makeup done and grab a small bouquet or flower crown from a local florist! It adds a little something extra to the shoot and is SO fun!! In terms of outfits, I typically recommend two looks – one casual and one a bit dressier. It’s also a good idea to try on your outfits before hand – accessories included to make sure everything is comfortable and fits the way you want it to! We want the main focus of the images to be YOU and your beautiful smiles! It’s also best for you two to coordinate, but not match! Need ideas? Check my Pinterest board here! I generally recommend avoiding small prints (small stripes, polka dots, etc.), orange, or black! Pastels and neutrals (blush, blues, greens, whites, cream) typically result in a more light and airy look to your images.

mckinney texas engagement

Expect to have fun

Remember, this is a shoot with no pressure! It’s just a fun opportunity for you to get practice for your actual wedding photos! If you or your fiancé are anxious at all about the shoot, it might be a good idea to browse a few recent engagement sessions blogs on this page! These will give you a good idea of what to expect. I shoot as naturally as possible – giving initial direction and then allowing you to move into what’s comfortable for you. Without giving away any secrets, come prepared to love on each other, laugh, run, reflect, and more. I know that sounds so cheesy…but that’s what happens and IT IS FUN!!!

Relax

It’s 100% normal to feel uncomfortable when we first start shooting! In general, it typically takes about 15 or 20 minutes for us to settle in and get comfortable with each other. You’re not supposed to know what to do or how to position yourself – I will take care of that! Just focus on you and your fiancé and I promise you will be AWESOME! Trust me and know that I will lead you throughout our time together. You’re with the person you love, so try to take in the moment and get comfy 🙂

oklahoma engagement photography

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