Whether you are getting married here in Hawaii or just coming here for a destination engagement session, there are so many ways to style it and make it your own! Many of my couples come to Hawaii for our incredible beauty and nature. But they also want to create an engagement session that shows them off as a couple.
This is a BIG moment for you two! You may use these photos for your Save The Dates or even your wedding invitations. And you are definitely going to share them all over social media. And like many of my couples, you will frame some as keepsakes to remember for years to come.
So as your photographer, I want to make sure that it is perfectly YOU. I work with all of my couples to find the best location and help you style it to perfection. Make sure to check out more couples galleries for more inspiration!
To get your creative wheels turning, I wanted to share three ways you can style your engagement session! From picking a theme, or choosing your own adventure, let’s dive in!
Plan A Theme
Engagement sessions don’t just have to be the two of you in front of the camera. Get creative with your engagement session, and do a theme!
For example, Magnus and Molly wanted a vintage-inspired shoot, so we worked together to create this editorial-styled session! We focused on minimalist background and clothing, so the focus was on the couple.
Another idea is to do a timeless and classic shoot, with editorial fashion, and sophisticated makeup.
For Camille and Thomas, they wanted it to feel cinematic and straight from a movie. So we kept their outfits simple and shot with lighting as the top priority for a dreamy glow. We shot both on an inlet, with incredible views of the mountains, and right on the ocean shore.
Looking for the perfect spot? Check out my guide for How To Pick Your Adventure Engagement Session Location!
Add Props + Accessories
Props and accessories are a great way to style your engagement session. Camille wore a wide brim hat from one of my favorite shops Lack of Color, and a vintage 1950’s set for her and Thomas’s session, adding some fun poses. We were able to have Camille play around with her hat, and have her wear it for part of the session, and have it hanging for the other half.
While cute shoes can be a fun accessory, a lot of my clients opt to just go barefoot and feel the sand between their toes.
Another fun item is to bring some snacks. Bring a vintage camera, guitar, or have a picnic on the beach! The meals you share with your loved ones are often some of the most deeply connected memories you have together. Maybe you had pizza on your first date or went out for acai bowls. Embrace these connections and have fun! Of course, we will make sure to clean up after ourselves and leave no trace behind.
I know that outfits can be hard to pick, so I created a guide for you! Check out my post on what to wear to your engagement session.
Decide How Much Of An Adventure You Want
While I love a great adventure (10-mile hike? Sign me up!). I also want you to pick the adventure that is right for you. So as you plan your session, think of what type of adventure you are looking for.
Do you want to splash in the ocean? I can help you pick the perfect beach for your portraits. Or if you are looking for a jungle experience, I can guide you to Oahu’s best parks and mountain scenery.
Or maybe you have dreamed of chasing a waterfall! I have you, friend! No matter what you decide, I’ll be there to embrace the outdoors with you and enjoy every minute.
How To Style Your Oahu Engagement Session
I believe that just like your elopement, your engagement session is a great time to come together, connect, and have the best day ever! All you have to do is relax, enjoy and trust the process. When you hire me, we will work together to come up with a unique style that reflects the two of you. I will also help you pick the best location and all of the timing details, to make the planning completely effortless for you! Reach out, and let’s create and celebrate together! I can’t wait to hear your vision.
