Engagement Photos

That sparkling ring on your finger shouldn't be the only thing announcing your engagement! (expert advice)

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photo by: Union Photography

That sparkling ring on your finger shouldn't be the only thing announcing your engagement! Now that you've set a date and started planning your wedding, it's a good idea to take a couple of engagement photos. Engagement photos are generally more casual than your wedding pictures and will be ideal for local newspapers, unique invitations and save the date cards, and much more.

The Casual Snapshot

Perfect engagement photos can be captured with nothing more than a high quality camera and a friend or relative with a knack for photography. If you already have a favorite snapshot of you and your fiancé, there's nothing wrong with using it as your engagement photo. As long as the picture is of good quality and captures the love between the two of you, it will be more than acceptable.

Professional Engagement Photos

Choosing to have your engagement photos shot by a professional is a convenient way to begin the search for a good wedding photographer. Ask family, friends and coworkers for their personal recommendations and scan your local phone directory for photographers specializing in weddings, then schedule appointments with 3 or 4 of your favorites. When you're choosing a photographer, remember:

Both you and your fiancé should feel comfortable and relaxed with the person shooting your photos.
Ask to see previous work the photographer has done, especially engagement and wedding pictures.
The right photographer should offer a selection of backgrounds, as well as the option of an outdoor setting.

Many wedding photographers will give special rates if you use them for your engagement and wedding photos.

The Right Pose

Of course, your engagement photos should include you and your fiancé, but how you sit or stand is completely up to you and your photographer. You could sit beside each other and hold hands; you could stand facing each other with your hands on one another's shoulders; your fiancé could stand behind you and put his arms around you. There are all sorts of traditional poses that will make beautiful engagement photos - just be sure you're both smiling and happy!

If you want something a little more unique for your pictures, consider snapping the shot while your beloved slips the ring onto your finger or with your fiancé on his knee as if he is proposing. A tasteful, yet intimate kiss can also make a touching photo.

Whether you're using a professional photographer or having a friend take your engagement photos, take several different shots using a few different poses so you and your fiancé can choose the pictures that best reflect your personalities and love for one another - and don't forget to include your favorite photo with your engagement announcement!