![\"Miami-Engagement-Photographers-045\"](\"https:\/\/thp.goodgallery.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/10\/21-4984-page\/Miami-Engagement-Photographers-045.jpg\")
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[dropcap]A[\/dropcap]s a Miami Wedding Photographer<\/a> a large part of my business involves working with couples on the engagement session<\/a>.\u00a0 Because every photographer has their own style, workflow, and thoughts on how they approach their work and interactions with clients there is simply no \u201cone way\u201d or \u201cbest way\u201d to go about it, so everything I am communicating here is very much relative to me, my brand, and how \u201cI\u201d get the type of results that I show.\u00a0 If you really want to get the most from what I can do, and have the best experience possible… then the following tips are for you when planning your Miami Engagement Photos!<\/p>\n 1. Choose clothing you LOVE (not like)<\/strong> – For women, it should be clothing that you really love wearing, that flatters you, and more to the point love how you feel when wearing it. \u00a0Even if you have to take a trip to Nordstrom’s<\/a>\u00a0and \u201cborrow\u201d an outfit for the afternoon (wink, wink<\/em>).\u00a0 The point is you must love<\/em> what your wearing, and feel confident<\/span> apart from anything to do with pictures.\u00a0 If you don\u2019t own what you really want, see if you can find a way to get it.\u00a0 If you don\u2019t love your own look, the camera won\u2019t either and you will be stuck feeling forever like \u201cI wish I had of worn\u2026.\u201d.\u00a0 For guys, keep it simple, sharp, and confident.\u00a0 You should also match (not by color per se), but in terms of \u201cclass\u201d. \u00a0For example.. if she is wearing sexy high heels, you can\u2019t wear flip flops.. it just does not look right.\u00a0 In all cases, it\u2019s important to dress for the locations.\u00a0 If we are shooting at a fancy hotel, then you should be dressed accordingly.\u00a0 The beach, should be something more relaxed etc.\u00a0 People often ask about \u201ccolors\u201d to wear, or not wear.. while there is no official rule on this.. I would try and stay with the darker tones in general.\u00a0 You are welcome to ask me for wardrobe advice based on our shooting plans, and I will help guide you the best way I know how.<\/p>\n 2. Weekday, not a weekend<\/strong>\u00a0– Understandably you more then likely work a traditional \u201c9 to 5\u201d, and getting time off during the week can be very hard to do.\u00a0 You maybe thinking\u2026 \u201cwe can just pick a weekend to do the session\u201d.\u00a0 While that may make sense to you..\u00a0 here is the reality around shooting on the weekends\u2026.\u00a0 First, ALL<\/em><\/span> public locations (parks, beaches, hotels, Vizcaya, venues, everywhere, and anywhere) will be packed with people.\u00a0 You can count on it.\u00a0 This means, that right off the bat we have to \u201cdeal\u201d with that.. and this can compromise my ability to get nice, clean shots.\u00a0 If things are too crazy, it can be a real hassle to try and setup any lighting, or get the type of compositions I would normally be able to do.\u00a0 This can (and will) have some kind of negative impact on the session in most cases, relative to what it could have been on a less busy day. [perfectpullquote align=”left” cite=”” link=”” color=”” class=”” size=””]Shooting during the week, on an \u201coff day\u201d is by far the best idea if you want to have a nice, relaxing, content rich session in any of the \u201cpublic\u201d locations.<\/em>[\/perfectpullquote]<\/p>\n Second, I may not be available on a weekend.\u00a0 As it only makes sense, I am generally at a wedding on a weekend day \ud83d\ude42\u00a0 This means, that if I am shooting a wedding on a Saturday, I am not going to be too excited for a session the very next day if my wedding ran very late the night before..and is not fair for you. \u00a0If my wedding is on a Sunday, then I would not want to do anything major like a session the day just before a wedding as this can be a liability to me for many reasons and I tend to \u201clay low\u201d before any wedding so that I am completely prepared.\u00a0 The bottom line, is if you truly want the best results.. weekday is best!<\/p>\n 3. Get a quality person to do your hair and makeup!<\/strong>\u00a0 – DON\u2019T hire an amateur!\u00a0 Going back to my first point that you must love what your wearing, and feel confident\u2026 you also need to feel great with how your hair and makeup has been styled.\u00a0 Don\u2019t take a chance and hire someone that may mess it up.\u00a0 I would encourage you to check out my \u201cVendors I Trust<\/a>\u201d page and contact one of them. \u00a0Another great idea, is to have the trial done for the wedding.\u00a0 So, whomever your thinking about hiring for the wedding day.. have them do your hair and makeup for the session.\u00a0 This will give you a very good idea on how they work, if they are on time, how long it takes etc..\u00a0 It\u2019s always best to have a working relationship with your wedding vendors whenever possible.<\/p>\n 4. Don\u2019t plan much else the same day as the session<\/strong> \u00a0– Unlike many photographers, I don\u2019t offer little \u201cmini\u201d sessions, or these little 2 hour outings.\u00a0 Personally, I think that is a joke.. and I simply would not have the portfolio, nor the personal connection with my clients that I have today if I ran my business that way.\u00a0 Granted, many photographers will argue this fact and that is fine because it is a very subjective opinion. \u00a0In the end, I feel people should do whatever makes them happy. \u00a0For me however, the session becomes a true collaboration on locations, ideas, and what you want the results to be. What I provide is based on locations, and not \u201ctime\u201d. [perfectpullquote align=”full” cite=”” link=”” color=”” class=”” size=””]I have learned from my own experience that If I am watching the clock, \u00a0I am not being creative, and I have enough time related \u201crestrictions\u201d on the wedding day to worry about, so the last thing I want is to introduce more restrictions when I am shooting a session for my clients.<\/em>[\/perfectpullquote]<\/p>\n This is how I choose<\/em> to run my business, and have since day one. \u00a0I would never have it any other way \ud83d\ude09 \u00a0 As an example… I love nothing more when clients invite us out for a burger and beer after a session to celebrate. \u00a0It’s great to sit, and talk about the shoot, and more importantly all about the final details for the wedding. \u00a0This is part of the experience<\/em> that I look forward too with many of my clients, as we get to honestly bond and become friends apart from “photography”. \u00a0I can’t help but think that this leads to a much better dynamic on the wedding day, when we walk in on the big day and that relationship has already\u00a0been established. \u00a0This is what I mean on the front page of my website when I say “Working with me is an experience, that results in the imagery I show”.<\/em><\/p>\n Perhaps\u00a0the best way to understand some of what goes on during a session, is to actually watch me in action \ud83d\ude42\u00a0 Please check out my Behind The Scenes page for videos<\/a> that show how everything unfolds!<\/p>\n 5. Sending me \u201cmust have shots\u201d<\/strong> – I love Pintrest, and I use it all the time\u2026 for cooking. \u00a0That’s about it. LOL. \u00a0Seriously though, I totally understand that you may have been looking around for \u201cideas\u201d, or places to go and shoot, outfits, whatever.\u00a0 You may have seen an image of something that caught your eye and you got all excited and wanted to know \u201cif we can do it\u201d.\u00a0 The answer is not easy, and it\u2019s not something that I can blindly say \u201cyes, or no\u201d too.\u00a0 It really, truly all depends on many, many things. \u00a0So, let me say this as a general \u201cblanket statement\u201d…\u00a0 if your sending along images to show IDEAS<\/span><\/em>… meaning, just that.. an example of a time of day<\/em>, \u00a0a location<\/em>, or a theme<\/em>… then yes, thats totally fine and this can help point me in the direction you want to go. \u00a0Then, from there we can further collaborate on the details, set a time table for the shoot based on logistics and go rock it out! \u00a0However… [perfectpullquote align=”full” cite=”” link=”” color=”” class=”” size=””]what I ask my clients to\u00a0avoid doing is sending along image examples from other photographers, saying “this is what I want”<\/em>[\/perfectpullquote]<\/p>\n By doing this, (and I will go ahead and speak for all other experienced photographers out there<\/em>), you risk taking away all of the creative energy that I, or any other photographer would have had while working with you. \u00a0The session, wedding, shoot etc.. starts to feel too “mechanical” and to a point becomes a “check list” of “must have images” that honestly will never look the same as the examples you have found, and this can lead to disappointment on both ends. \u00a0The images you see on my site, and on other peoples site etc.. are all results from a very specific moment, that was captured with a specific lighting condition, a specific mood \/ feeling, a specific time of day and with people who are not… you<\/em>. \u00a0 I ask that you trust me, my brand and abilities to make the best from any situation I am faced with. \u00a0I think fast, and come up with some of my best work on the fly, and “in the moment”. \u00a0This is a vital part of the creative process that you have invested in. \u00a0If you look through my site, and read all about some of the images I have taken, you will start to see what I mean \ud83d\ude42 \u00a0 \u00a0So, quickly to summarize.. \u00a0it’s best not to send any images at all, unless I need more clarification. \u00a0This keeps my head clear, open, and ready to create my own. \u00a0The locations, mood, time of day, etc.. is all a part\u00a0of the pre planning process and no images are needed for that. \u00a0If there is something specific that you really want me to do, it’s best to verbally<\/span> tell me while on location.. and then I can make it happen that way, based on the dynamics we have going on at that time. \u00a0If you feel that your ideas are very complex, and are worried.. then lets setup a time to chat on the phone and I would be more then happy to dialog out anything you would like so we can determine whats best, and to ensure that your expectations are inline with what I am able to provide.<\/p>\n 6. Not having any ideas “We trust your judgment\u201d<\/strong> – On the flip side from the point above.. this can be just as important. \u00a0From my own working experience whenever someone says “we trust your judgment”<\/em>, this is generally just slang for “we need some help with ideas”. \u00a0Totally fine! \u00a0The best place to start is to think about locations<\/em>. \u00a0What are some locations that you really like the looks of? \u00a0Often people start thinking about places that have to do with what they are “in to”, or activities that they enjoy. \u00a0To be honest, this can be tricky to bring into a session as some of the common places you may goto or activities that you enjoy may or may not translate into a “beautiful image”, as it relates to photography. \u00a0So, another approach is rather then foccusing on the background locations.. perhaps we can shoot a session based on a “story”, a day in your life, your first date, something like that. \u00a0This could be even more powerful, and meaningful depending on the logistics and I am more then willing to explore different ideas with you. \u00a0But, if you truly have no ideas, or don’t care on what the details are and just want me to put the plane in “auto pilot” then, I can plan the shoot.. and goto random locations\u00a0that I normally would never think to go, and “experiment”. \u00a0Something for me to write about in the future, and perhaps even inspire others. \u00a0However, I take no responsibility on how things turn out.. you asked for it \ud83d\ude09<\/p>\n 7. Hydrate \/ bring a snack<\/strong> – You should consider bringing some bottled waters, and even a small snack, energy bar etc.. until the session is over. \u00a0Nothing worse then trying to work with people that are actually hungry, or dehydrated. \u00a0If you become hungry, or need some water please tell me! \u00a0LOL. \u00a0It’s fine, we can take a break anytime. \u00a0Sometimes (well, all the time it seems lately) it is hot, and humid in South Florida. \u00a0So, its best to come prepared! \u00a0If your feeling uncomfortable in the least bit, it will show in the images one way or another. \u00a0Make no mistake, every<\/em> client comments on how it’s more involved then what they thought, and sleep very sound that night I am sure.<\/p>\n 8. Bring a friend \/ helper<\/strong> – This is a great idea. \u00a0It’s nice to have a “helping hand” come along on the session. \u00a0Perhaps the Maid Of Honor, or another “girl friend” is a great idea. \u00a0This is for many reasons.. \u00a0they can help carry items you may need (extra shoes, dresses, water, etc..), but most importantly, by having them tag along it offers a little extra “ice breaker” during the session. [perfectpullquote align=”left” cite=”” link=”” color=”” class=”” size=””]Having a close friend come, makes the session that much more enjoyable for you, and at times I can even use that to my advantage to get even better shots.<\/em>[\/perfectpullquote]<\/p>\n This is especially important if your the type of person that “is afraid of the camera”, or is perhaps over thinking this entire process. \u00a0Take my word for it, it makes the time even more enjoyable, and somehow you will end up with better shots because of it.<\/p>\n 9. Bring flats –<\/strong> High Heels are no doubt a great choice for any session where you want to look sexy, and your best. \u00a0The benefits can not be overlooked, including shaping the legs, toning the calfs, and just giving a high polished “look”. \u00a0They also offer some unique posing options that otherwise would not make sense, so yes always recommended… \u00a0However<\/span>… you should always bring some other shoes that are —actually<\/em>— comfortable to wear! \u00a0This is especially true if we are going to be shooting in several different locations, or perhaps when\u00a0some real walking is involved from one point to another. \u00a0This way, your not going to ruin your nice shoes and most of all your going to be comfortable for a longer period of time.<\/p>\n 10. Props \/ themed shoots<\/strong> – Once in a while I get asked about “props” or “vintage” themed sessions. \u00a0Admittedly, if you look hard enough in my blog you will find some sessions like this that I have done with clients. \u00a0However, I can’t really take full credit for all of that. \u00a0This was them, their ideas and what they wanted. \u00a0I simply showed up, and provided all the technical aspects of the photography so that it would all make sense etc. \u00a0If you want images like that, you will need to make it a project to plan out all the details, props, etc.. and then yes, I am more then willing to come and take what you have provided to the next level and make it really pop! \u00a0I think sessions like this are fun, and exciting\u00a0for me as it becomes different and not “everyday”. \u00a0So, I am more then willing to hear about your ideas! \u00a0Just keep in mind, I do think it takes a specific personality type to truly “pull it off” in front of the camera.. and the trick is in all the details, and the level of planning. \u00a0The best shoots are the ones where a tremendous amount of planning went into them (client \/ wedding planner), and this maybe more then what you want to take on. \u00a0I guess, my advice here is if your going to do something like that.. REALLY do it, and do it well. \u00a0Otherwise, your better off thinking about something else that requires less planning, and pre work.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n So, thats about it.. or at least the common things that come up that I wanted to communicate in regards to planning for the engagement session. \u00a0At the end of the day, the engagement sessions that I provide are truly top notch and are of a production grade. \u00a0It’s also the time where I learn all about my clients, and I get to push the limits within photography. \u00a0I enjoy working with very little direction, and feel that you will always get the best results when I have creative freedom. \ud83d\ude42<\/p>\n I hope you enjoyed reading all my thoughts, and if you have any specific questions, or comments please let me know! \u00a0You may also want to read my other articles on “5 getting ready tips for the wedding day<\/a>” Also,\u00a0a long but beneficial read is “Timeline + Expectations<\/a>”<\/p>\n Enjoy!<\/p>\n TH<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Here are 10 tips to help you prepare, plan and understand what to expect for your engagement session with me!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":5801,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[35,11],"tags":[57,58,15,59],"class_list":["post-5779","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-business","category-engagement-sessions","tag-miami-engagement-photos","tag-miami-engagement-planning","tag-miami-wedding-photographers","tag-tips"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/travisharris.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5779","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/travisharris.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/travisharris.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/travisharris.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/travisharris.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=5779"}],"version-history":[{"count":21,"href":"https:\/\/travisharris.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5779\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":8299,"href":"https:\/\/travisharris.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5779\/revisions\/8299"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/travisharris.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/5801"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/travisharris.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=5779"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/travisharris.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=5779"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/travisharris.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=5779"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}