Okay! So you’re engagement photos are booked! You may think you’re camera shy but there’s a top model in all of us. Right?! We feel the same sometimes, so we chatted with Ronnie Lee Hill, a wedding photographer in Vancouver who’s photography style is on point! Her photos tell a story and she makes her clients look natural and beautiful as she catches every candid moment.
If you’re nervous about getting your photo taken because you think you’ll look awkward, I hope these tips will help.
Ronnie, let’s start with outfits! In your experience, what would you recommend a couple wear?
I always recommend that couples wear something they are comfortable in, and that makes them feel great. Wearing something that allows for lots of movement is always helpful, since you never know if I’ll have you snuggling in a cafe or climbing to the top of a cool looking rock. For the ladies, I love flowing skirts that moves while you walk, paired with anything from a cozy sweater to that killer leather jacket you just can’t stop wearing. And for the gentlemen, wear something that compliments what your partner is wearing. If she’s decked out in fancy heels and a formal dress, match her efforts. If we’re going adventuring in the forest, wear something cozy and layered, and don’t forget to bring a jacket to wrap around her shoulders incase that dress of hers isn’t warm enough 😉
On camera make up? Do you have any do not do’s?
I always suggest getting hair and makeup done professionally before a shoot. This doesn’t have to mean big fake eyelashes and a big blowout, but getting hair and makeup (at least makeup) done professionally for the camera can mean that your features will pop, your eyes will have a magical sparkle, and that pesky zit on your cheek that appeared overnight will never be seen again!
If a couple is nervous about getting their photo taken, what kind of advice do you give them?
My best advice, is just let yourself be nervous…and work with a photographer that you trust! A great photographer isn’t just about the shots, they’re about making the whole experience great. When you look at those photos years from now you don’t want to think “Ew, I looked so nervous!”, you want to think “We’re so cute! That was so fun!”. And, if you ever want to see someone who’s nervous in front of the camera, try taking a photo of me some time! Talk about nervous face!!
What can a couple do to look “normal” or natural at the photo shoot?
This goes back to working with the right photographer. Work with someone you feel comfortable with, someone that makes you laugh, and who shares your vision for the images that are going to be created. Talk about what you’ll be doing ahead of time, and then let the professional do their job! You might feel silly smooching your lover over and over again on a log at the beach while someone with a camera flutters around you, but go with it, enjoy it, and trust that you’re working with the right person. I bet that in the end you’ll end up with some epic shots!
Any other advice for people about to get their pics taken?
Don’t underestimate the power of bringing snacks! Hanger and hangovers are real fun-killers on shoot day, so show up well rested, well hydrated, and with treats (I like dark chocolate, thanks, haha).
Ronnie Lee Hill is a Vancouver based photographer. She does Engagements, Weddings, Maternity, Family and more. RonnieLeeHill.com
Amanda is a writer, photographer, videographer and a content creator with a passion for sharing stories. With her family of 5, they share experiences, tips and ideas that empower Moms to make memories with their families right here in British Columbia.
