1. WHEN: Contact your photographer to book your date for Engagement photos months in advance. Especially if you're wanting popular weddings months like May-June and September-October. Also be willing to book a weekday if needed! If you're getting married in the fall, consider Spring engagement photos to capture a different season.

2. INSPIRATION: Have a vision of the general style/look you're going for. Is there a certain aesthetic that you're drawn to? Try not to look on Pinterest for ideas to duplicate, but share your vision and trust your photographer! Examples from his/her portfolio are welcomed! I would also recommend to keep it somewhat cohesive with the style of the wedding you're having. For example, if you're having an outdoor wedding, a Save the Date photo out in nature would help set the scene for the type of event. For really well-designed invitations and save the dates, check out paperless post!

3. LOCATION: Choosing a location that's meaningful to you will make your photos even more special and personal to your story. For example; the place you met, your favorite date spot, the campus where you went to school together, the place he proposed, or somewhere with family history. If you're shy when it comes to PDA, somewhere more secluded like a family friend's private property might make you feel more comfortable being yourself.

4. TIMING: Golden hour is the best time of day for outdoor portraits to get that nice warm glow. Keep that in mind when planning. If sunset is 8pm, I would suggest planning on around 6:00pm-7:30pm. Overcast on the day you have planned to shoot? No worries! Overcast skies can be great for photos because it provides soft, even lighting.

5. WARDROBE: Think something classic and timeless (verses trendy that will eventually go out of style.) Wear something that you feel great in, that feels like you. For colors, I'm personally partial to neutrals/earth tones (like grey, navy, denim, white, caramel, olive green, etc) that will compliment the environment we shoot in. I would avoid neon/colors that are too bright/bold that will compete instead of compliment. I want your emotions and expressions to be the main focus. Feel free to bring a second outfit to change into to mix it up.

5. PRIMP: Treat yourself! Consider getting your hair and makeup professionally done as well as your nails to be ready for those close ups! If you have a color palette preference, make sure to let your h/m artist know and show them an inspiration pic. Tip: It's good to have chapstick for him on hand/touch up lip stick for you on hand, water, face powder, etc! Hair/Makeup artist in Nashville I recommend: Stephanie Harrison harrisonstephanie@hotmail.com

6. PROPS: Don't worry about bringing any props! I want the two of you to be the main focus of the photos. Props like "save the date" signs or banners with your wedding date are cute, but are a bit trendy and can be awkward to photograph. Leave the design and date announcement to an awesome save the date card template.

7. RELAX: You'll be in an amazing location with the love of your life, you both will look your best, and your only job is to love on each other! Don't feel pressured to always look at the camera and smile. Actually, it's best if you can interact with each other: talk, laugh, hug, etc. Your images will look much more natural and effortless if you're relaxed and just enjoying each other!

BONUS TIP: Show it off!

Rachel Moore Photography, Nashville Photographers, Photographers in Nashville, TN, Nashville Photography, Nashville Wedding Photographers

7 Tips for Beautiful + Meaningful Engagement Photos