HOW TO STYLE YOUR AT HOME ENGAGEMENT
Did you ever see gorgeous at-home engagement photos over on the 'gram and wonder just how someone got two real, authentic, and completely in love humans to look so natural and carefree? You might even roll your eyes a little, ’cause you and your beau couldn’t possibly pull that off, right? We totally get it, but photographer Anya Kernes Photography and Weddings by Susan Dunne would respectfully disagree. In fact, they’re here showing you just how to style an intimate engagement shoot that isn’t one bit staged or posed, and looks like the coziest Sunday morning spent at home, just a little more polished and elevated. Read on for some important tips to remember...
KEEP IT APPROPRIATE
No I don't mean naughty stuff so get your mind out of the gutter... I mean the fact that often there are props and 'things' added for the sake of adding and 99% of the time there doesn't need to be such distractions. Props can date your session so keep it appropriate for the situation your in. Having one in the bedroom? Try newspapers, coffee, crisp bed linens and attire that you would actually wear to bed (no denims on your fiance!). Taking some images in your newly refurbished kitchen? Make some breakfast together, cuddle your pup, whatever you would normally do in your kitchen. Just avoid the ultra posed set ups and anything that doesn't seem appropriate to the location.
KEEP IT CASUAL
The best way to get images where you both look relaxed and authentic? Just do what comes naturally. Play out a 'scene' such as making coffee together, then grabbing a quick kiss and cuddle so your photographer has a good chance of capturing great details and emotion for you. Missed a shot? Just replay the scene.
KEEP TALKING
Try not to let nerves get the better of you by chatting throughout to your loved one. Remind him of your first date, your first vacation, the first impressions of each other! Talking like this throughout the session will enable the photographer to capture genuine emotions from you about real feelings you both have.
From Anya Kernes Photography: "Holidays proposals are everywhere this time of year. Winter and early spring is also the time that couples start planning their wedding day, which is often when the question about doing an engagement session pops up. A lot of couples who are drawn to simplicity and intimacy in photos find themselves wanting to do an at home lifestyle session, which have been getting more popular in the last year. For Victoria and James’ session, we wanted to show what a morning during their staycation might look like.
We chose the beautiful Ritz in Marina Del Rey for its bright and large rooms that would bounce the light off beautifully. It was intimate look into the beginning of their day - a bright morning drinking coffee and enjoying the SoCal sunshine on the balcony. No frills of fancy wardrobe or “picturesque” location - just the comfort and joy of being next to your loved one."
vendor details
Photographer: Anya Kernes Photography | Film Lab: Goodman Film Lab | Stylist / Planner: Weddings by Susan Dunne | Floral Designer: Mulberry & Moss | Accessories: Trumpet & Horn | Venue: Ritz-Carlton, Marina Del Rey | Hair & Make-up Artist: Makeup by Emerald D
