So I've been taking portraits and event photos strictly for family, close friends, and myself and it's been great because there's really no pressure. I've also told them they can tell friends that I'd take pictures for them, but I didn't really expect anyone would. Well, apparently a few of them are and I have to go meet with a girl and her fiance tomorrow to set up an engagement photo shoot...

I'm pretty excited about it, and the girl knows I'm not a pro, so it's not really a major obligation or pressure. But of course I don't want to waste their time or mine. This is kind of the first thing I've done for someone I don't know personally. And it's a good chance for me to get some practice.

I'm posting this thread to get some ideas of things I should or shouldn't do or think about. There are some amazing photographers on here, and I'd love to pick your brains. There are tons of perfect locations around DC, but it sounds like she doesn't really have a concrete idea of what she wants. I'm confident I'll be able to take pictures that I like, but I'm very green at taking photos for someone.

Here are a few of the shots I've done for family and friends, I'd love some critique and genuine feedback, as well as maybe some thoughts on doing this kind of thing. Thanks in advance.

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4. (for Chris from Cali)

 

Ur
Pix r awesome u have nothing to worry about

 

Thanks Bo. Those are all close friends or family, and they're not allowed to complain! (except my brother in #2 thinks he looks like a homeless guy...)

But my biggest worry is that the bride-to-be really doesn't have a great idea of what she even wants. I'm scouring the internet for ideas, but I figured some of the great artists on here have some experience with this type of thing.

 

Have you asked here to browse flickr to maybe show you something towards what she likes? or browse your photos to see if she likes what you already do? Like Bo said, you do great work and have nothing to worry about if you stick with that. If the client doesn't tell you what to do, do what you do best.

 

I asked her to look around online a bit. Then we can see the general looks she likes and start from there, but still make it highly personal to them. I want to avoid cheesy at all costs, but I know there are certain shots that are musts. Like the hands with the rings, etc.

My motto will be "fake it 'til you make it"!

I know this is kind of a waste thread, but I wanted to talk it out with my online pals!

 

Thanks Steve. We love the pics you took - I need to get a DVD of all them at some point!

 

I always enjoy your photos, I think you have a great eye. Just tell them not to take it too seriously and have fun with it. Casual and relaxed better than posed, imo.

 

Casual is always better in my opinion.

But girls tend to be so picky with these things. I would make sure the typical moments are portrayed from every angle.

 

You're right, your not a pro.

 

Oh yeah? Then how do you explain my user title???!?!