This is so exciting! These are the first steps into your wedding planning, and getting your engagement session done is super important to start telling your story. Hey, I’m Gaby, your DFW wedding photographer. I’ve been collecting love stories since 2016, so I know exactly all the tips and tricks you need to design your session. So, let’s dive in!
First of all, let’s think about the feel you want for this session. This will help us choose the perfect location and outfits. Do you want an editorial, romantic, elegant, chic, or casual style for your engagement? Before you answer, it’s crucial to check with your partner to make sure they’re on the same page.
Once you’ve settled on the style, you and your photographer can decide on a location that matches it. In the Dallas/Fort Worth area, there are tons of great places to do your session. Bonus tip: try to describe in three words how you want your session to make you feel. This will help a lot in creating your story.
Now, let’s start thinking about the outfits. Usually, engagement sessions have two outfit changes—one more formal and the other more casual. But it’s your session, so you can plan it however you want. Based on the style and location, we can start brainstorming outfit ideas. I always tell couples to think about neutral colors, avoid logos on shirts, and most importantly, choose outfits that make you feel like a model. If you don’t feel great in what you’re wearing, it will show in your photos! Trust me, it’s 100% true. Your confidence will boost when you feel comfortable in what you’re wearing.
Choosing the Right Location
Dallas offers a variety of stunning locations for engagement photos. From urban settings to beautiful parks, there’s something for everyone. Here are a few popular spots:
- The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden: Perfect for a lush, floral backdrop.
- Klyde Warren Park: Great for a mix of urban and green spaces.
- Deep Ellum: Ideal if you want a more edgy, artistic vibe with its vibrant murals and street art.
- White Rock Lake: Offers beautiful natural scenery, especially during sunset.
- Arbor Hills Nature Preserve: Located in Plano, this spot is perfect for a natural, rustic feel.
- Winspear Opera House: For a touch of elegance and architectural beauty.
- Adriatica Village: A charming village in McKinney that looks like a European town.
- Southlake Town Square: Offers a mix of urban and green spaces with a small-town feel.
- Fort Worth Stockyards: Great for a Western, vintage vibe with its historic buildings and cobblestone streets.
- Nasher Sculpture Center: A beautiful garden with modern art sculptures, ideal for a more sophisticated look.
- Trinity Groves: Offers stunning views of the Dallas skyline, especially at sunset.
When choosing a location, consider the time of year and the best times for lighting. Early morning or late afternoon (the “golden hour”) typically provides the most flattering light.
Planning Your Outfits
Outfits are a big part of your engagement photos. Here are a few tips:
- Coordinate but Don’t Match: Choose colors that complement each other without being too matchy-matchy.
- Comfort is Key: You’ll be moving around a lot, so wear something that’s comfortable and easy to move in.
- Professional Hair and Makeup: Consider getting your hair and makeup professionally done. It can make a big difference in how you feel and look in your photos.
Remember, your engagement session is about celebrating your love story. Have fun with it and let your personalities shine through. Whether you choose a chic urban setting or a romantic garden, the most important thing is that your photos reflect who you are as a couple. Take the time to plan and prepare, but also be open to spontaneity. Some of the best moments are the ones you didn’t plan for.
I can’t wait to capture this special moment for you. Happy planning, and let’s create some beautiful memories together!
