Boston2017bigbadengagement

photography The Big Bad Book of Tips for Killer Engagement Photos

“Help me, I’m awkward.”

I know, I know. You’re awkward. No, but you’re realllllllly awkward. My couples tell this to me all the time. And guess what? So am I. Being in front of a camera is not a natural feeling to so many of us, but my job is to make you feel comfortable with me and in front of my lens…or at least make it look as though you feel comfortable. Wiiink wink.

The secret to getting relaxed and documentary style photos like the ones I tend to shoot, is to work my couples in and out of “poses” before they even have time to think about how they feel doing them. I’ll keep the energy and excitement of the shoot high while giving lots of “actions” and then try to capture those moments in between when you and your fiancé are being, well, you know, YOU!. I will typically run through anywhere from 10-15 different poses or actions every time I photograph a couple to help them feel relaxed and at ease. You’ll get constant direction from me along with tons of feedback, so your brain won’t even have a chance to slow down and wonder about how you look, and that is when the real magic happens.

So if you’re self-conscious about your camera-awkwardness, welcome to the club, my friend; you’re in good company.

And this is your lucky day, because I’m going to give you a little sneak peek at some tricks I use during shoots to relax my couples and help them look completely natural. They probably sounds nuts on paper, but I promise you, these are 100% effective and can actually be kind of fun. Ready? Let’s dive in: • Mindreading: Stand facing your partner with your arms around each other. Close your eyes and think (to yourself) of a number of color. Then, open your eyes and take turns trying to guess what your partner thought of. This one gets my couples smiling every. single. time.

• Whispering: Speaking softly into your partner’s ear: “If you were a food/animal/drink you would be…”

• Dance: You can slow dance or fast dance or break dance or whatever makes you happiest. Twirl your partner, dosi-do…just make eye contact and Laugh. Show me your best moves.

That’s just a small sampling, but I can’t reveal all my secrets. Just get ready to have fun.

Threads: The next thing people tend to ask me about is what to wear for engagement photos. I cannot stress enough that THE most important thing is that you are comfortable. If you want to dress it up and feel glamorous, go for it, but if you feel most you in skinny jeans and some converse, we can totally pull off a casual look too.

Here are a few things to consider while you shop: • I like to tell people to outfits that “go” (same tone or look) but don’t completely “match”.

• Long flowy dresses and skirts that have a good bounce are really fun to photograph. They can give pretty movement and allow for some awesome light to peek through.

• Do people tell you a color that looks good on you? WEAR IT. Sometimes we perceive ourselves differently than others. Ask your friends/family to chime in. They may suggest something you wouldn’t have thought of yourself.

• Basic tees can be dressed up with a fun necklace or statement earrings. Check the JCrew outlet for some inspiration.

• Stay away from ponchos or anything too baggy that will add extra pounds. * Feel free to send me outfit choices and I’m happy to help you pick!

I have had my photographs taken a number of times and I can tell you that I feel most confident in front of the camera when I’ve had my hair and makeup done. It gives me one less thing to worry about if I know I won’t have to worry about having a good hair day or if my foundation will look streaky.

Where Should We Shoot?: Shoots can be wherever you’d like. I like my couples to try to think of places that have special meaning to them, be it a bar, or a beach, or even an outdoor market where they’ve shared special time together. If you don’t have any ideas, I love to help my clients come up with fun and unique spots. My bucket list includes: • A carnival or a fair • A boat • An ice cream stand • Harvard Square • Davis Square movie theater • SOWA market • Fenway Park • Camping • On a canoe • …any destination spot you have in mind (especially Arizona!)

Sometimes, finding beautiful light makes the perfect backdrop, and that can be in a parking garage, dog park, or random fields.

Odds n’ Ends • Engagement shoots are shot Monday-Thursday and there is no travel fee for sessions that take place within 15 miles of Boston, MA or 30 miles of Canandaigua, NY for my New York weddings. Additional fees may apply.

• You will receive your photos through a program called Pixiset 1-3 weeks after our session together.

• We can collaborate to create gorgeous guest books or albums for your wedding.

Other questions? Ask away: janellecarmela@gmail.com

XOXO, janelle