So many people tell us some version of this: "we're awkward, I'm not photogenic, I hate having my photo taken, etc." Probably 75% of the faces you see across our website said something along these lines when we first met. Feeling uncomfortable in front of the camera is normal. But it's our job to make it fun, and we love that job! We're committed to helping you relax and get comfortable. And that's when we'll make the incredible images you see. 

So act like yourselves, and let us know how you're feeling. We're here to work with you! If you're a super-duper lovey-dovey couple, then we'll get those photos, and if you're more reserved, then we'll get those photos. Easy as that.

We're not good at taking pictures - How do we Act?

Whatever makes you feel confident and comfortable. Seriously! We can offer more suggestions beyond that, but we want your photos to represent you. If that means a t-shirt and jeans, then do that. If that means a suit and tie, then do that.

That said, I would suggest taking your location decisions into consideration when picking out your outfits, and I also recommend trying to coordinate with one another. 

Two small notes: busy patterns can be distracting (that doesn't mean you can't wear them, just something to be aware of), and certain colors might cast light onto your skin (so if you're wearing a bright red shirt, it might reflect some red light back onto your face). 

What Should We Wear?

Our engagement photo sessions usually last about 90 minutes to 2 hours each. And it can vary based on whether we're doing 1 or 2 locations, whether you want to incorporate an outfit change, etc.

How Long Do Engagement Photos Take?

For time of year, you may want to consider if you want to use the engagement photos for your save the dates or wedding invitations or the like. If you do, factor in how long those take to design and order, and plan to have your engagement photo session at least a month before that order deadline.

For time of day, your engagement session can really be any time of day, but the most sought after light will be in the hour or 2 before sunset or after sunrise. We also really like blue hour (right after sunset) for dramatic images. If you have any favorite inspiration images, let us know, and we'll discuss the best time of day to get images like those.

When Should we Do our Engagement
Photos?

Definitely! For a couple of reasons.

First, how many professional pictures do you have of the two of you? Yes, you'll have wedding photos, but it's also nice to have some portraits that are in other settings and outfits.

Second, and pretty importantly, engagement photos are a great opportunity to get comfortable working with us before your wedding day. You'll learn posing techniques, realize that you aren't as awkward as you might think you are, and get a feel for how we operate. We've been told by a number of couples that having the engagement session ahead of time made the wedding day less stressful since portraits at the wedding were totally fun and easy. 

Should We get Engagement Photos?

Raleigh Engagement Photos:
Frequently Asked Questions

FAQs

You'll get a few previews that same week! Then within 2-3 weeks after the session, you'll get a link to your online gallery with your final edited images. Through this gallery you can order prints and other products {including Save The Dates!), and also download the images to your own computer for printing and sharing. 

When (& How) do We get Our Photos?

If that's your style, then sure! Some couples like to bring a picnic blanket, an activity they enjoy together (books, baseball, coffee...), a sign with their wedding date, or a special part of their love story. And I know pets aren't props, but if you want to include a furry member of the family, that would make us so happy!

I do recommend limiting the number of prop-type things you bring to 1 or 2 just for time's sake.

Should We bring Props?

Engagement sessions are a lot of fun and we want you to think of it like a fantastic date night. And you just so happen to have a fantastic photographer following you around capturing the wonderful moments of that fantastic date night. 

Other questions? We're here to help! Shoot us a note at info@kivusandcamera.com.

Anything Else?