So you’ve booked your engagement, maternity or anniversary photo shoot, and now you’re staring into your closet trying to figure out what you’re going to wear. Dressing for a beach romantic session can be a challenge in and of itself, but throw in the sand, waves and wind of a beach, and you’ve got yourself a real challenge.
Never fear! I’ve got you covered. Here are ten tips from my experience in romantic beach photography that will help you to feel beautiful, comfortable and, most of all, help you to enjoy the experience!
- Splurge a little bit, and get your nails done, especially if you are taking engagement pictures. Nobody wants chipped nail polish in ring shots. I recommend getting shellac polish, especially if you are taking your photos while on vacation. No chips and no peeling for weeks!
- While barefoot is best, and we will spend most of our time that way on the beach, bring pretty sandals, flats or thick heels (thin heels sink into the sand, so they are a no-no), just in case.
- Style your hair pulled away from your face. I recommend a braid, because it allows us to switch sides and still keep your hair in the shot. It may sound romantic to have your hair whipped around you in the wind during a photo shoot, but in my experience, it makes for a lot of pictures with hair all over faces.
- Men can wear shorts rather than pants, or plan for an outfit change. We will probably be spending some time right next to, or in, the water, so the ends of your pants will get wet.
- If you are planning a mid-photo shoot outfit change, start with a formal look, and then change into a more casual one.
- Avoid wearing bold, funky patterns. We want eyes to be drawn to your faces, not your t-shirts.
- For the ladies, flowy and airy dresses are best. This is where the ocean breeze is your friend. A wind-blown dress by the ocean can’t be beat.
- Don’t go too matchy-matchy. Go for the mix-and-match instead with your outfits. Wear different shades of the same color or colors in a matching palette, such as blush and light blue or navy and mint green.
- If you decide to go with white, choose an accessory that will give you a pop of color like a necklace or scarf.
- Many of the couples I work with are on vacation, but showing up to a photo shoot with alcohol breath or sunglasses tan lines isn’t a good look for anyone, and can ruin the experience. Plan ahead and be presentable for your pictures!
Taking photos should be a fun, exciting experience that you come away from with beautiful photos. Follow these ten simple rules and you will be on your way to having the romantic photo shoot of your dreams.
