Want engagement photos but camera shy? It's OK! Our Arizona-inspired engagement photo guide is here to help bring the fun!!
David Orr Photography Engagement Sessions at Papago Park, Desert Botanical Garden, Tempe Town Lake, McDowell Sonoran Preserve Scottsdale, Valley Garden Center Phoenix, and Lower Salt River in Mesa, Arizona!
Overcome Camera Shyness to Have an Awesome Engagement Photo Experience
Real Clients, Real Moments
by David Orr Photography
You may know about our Arizona surprise proposal photography, but we also specialize in Engagement Photo Sessions, where we collaborate with couples who want to participate together in creating loving, romantic images to accompany their announcements, invitations, and guest gifts prior to the wedding day.
Planning your engagement photo shoot can be both exhilarating and nerve-wracking, especially if your partner isn't exactly jumping for joy at the thought of posing in front of a camera. If you've ever wondered why your significant other is less than enthusiastic about getting in front of the lens, you are not alone. Many people feel uncomfortable or self-conscious when it comes to being photographed.
But fear not! Understanding the reasons behind your partner’s reluctance can help you navigate the situation with empathy and finesse. With the right approach, mindset, and a dash of creativity, you can turn your engagement session into a memorable experience that you’ll both enjoy.
Let’s find out why your loved one might be camera shy …
David Orr Photography outdoor engagement session at sunset along the Lower Salt River in Mesa, Arizona.
Here is a list of common reasons why your partner might not be so thrilled about having their photo taken.
Feeling Self-Conscious:
Your partner may feel insecure about their appearance and awkward in front of the camera.
Lack of Control:
Your partner might dislike the feeling of being directed, preferring natural interactions to being overly posed or staged.
Past Negative Experience:
Your partner may have had an undesirable experience during a past photoshoot that makes them nervous about getting back in front of the camera.
Feeling Vulnerable:
Your partner might feel vulnerable in front of the camera, fearing that they will be judged or scrutinized, either during the photo session or in the photos that are shared afterward.
Misconceptions:
Your partner might have a preconceived notion about a photoshoot being boring, awkward or too staged.
Hey Partner, we hear you!
And we are here to help.
David Orr Photography lavender haze sunset engagement photo session near a bank of the Salt River in Mesa, Arizona.
So, how do you begin to get a better understanding of where your partner is coming from?
Let’s dive into our top 10 tips to help you better understand your partner & come together to have an awesome engagement session experience …
David Orr Photography engagement proposal session at Boyce Thompson Arboretum in Superior, Arizona.
Before Hiring a Photographer: Communicate Openly.
Start by having a caring and honest conversation with your partner about their concerns regarding a photoshoot. Carefully listen to them, and acknowledge their feelings or concerns.
David Orr Photography loves introducing couples to get an outdoor garden proposal and engagement photo session at Boyce Thompson Arboretum.
Once you get a better understanding, you can begin to share your goals and what you hope to accomplish with the photo session. Encourage your partner to share their goals as well.
David Orr Photography golden-hour desert engagement session within the Superstition Mountains of Mesa, Arizona.
Together, you can make a plan, and be on the same page when you communicate your photo session wishes with your photographer!
David Orr Photography rustic engagement photo session in the desert of East Mesa, Arizona near the Superstition Mountains.
Choose the Right Photographer.
Look for a caring photographer who is a good listener, and wants to understand your personality, vision and photo goals you have as a couple. Intentionally aim to make a positive and meaningful connection with your photographer! Two great ways to meet a potential photographer are via online video like Zoom, or in person. During the meeting, the photographer will share many things with you, including the relevant services they can provide, a photo portfolio of example images, their approach to art direction, and their typical workflow, including realistic expectations of image editing and delivery.
David Orr Photography afternoon gold hour engagement session with a pet at Papago Park in Tempe, Arizona.
Here are some things to consider when you decide on a meeting method:
Zoom Call Benefits
A video chat or Zoom is a convenient way to initially meet any vendor, from the comfort of wherever you want to be. All you need is a device with internet access!
Meeting via online chat is also a major time saver.
If you are already outgoing and a confident speaker who enjoys connecting with others, you may find a Zoom call is an ideal way to initially meet a photographer.
Video Chat Challenges
Viewing a photographer’s portfolio may be difficult if you have a small screen.
Possible glitches, such as audio and connectivity issues, can slow down a meeting.
If you are on the shy side, you may find speaking on screen isn’t the most comfortable method for meeting.
David Orr Photography desert engagement photo session at sunset with Camelback Mountain in the distance at Papago Park, Tempe, Arizona.
In-Person Meeting Perks
Connecting in person and face-to-face is ideal if you enjoy getting to know your photographer’s personality and learning about their craft.
Speaking freely tends to come more naturally during an in-person meeting, and if you have specific questions, it may feel easier to bring them up in conversation.
Meeting in person can help you determine if the photographer is a good fit with you and your partner’s energy.
In-Person Meeting Obstacles
Scheduling, committing to, and driving to a meeting place will take more time.
Finding a quiet place to meet in person is not always possible.
There may be additional costs to meet in person, such as mileage, food or drink, parking, etc.
David Orr Photography Tempe Town Lake engagement session afternoon.
Before the Photo Session: Dress to Impress.
Choose outfits that reflect your personal style and make you feel confident. Your clothes don’t need to match perfectly, but rather complement each other with a shared color scheme or style. Avoid casual clothes that you lounge around the house or apartment in.
David Orr Photography romantic engagement moments near Tempe Town Lake walkway near Arizona State University campus!
Focus on the Experience.
Tell your partner that the photo shoot is an opportunity to spend quality time together and create lasting memories. Think of it as a date night; keep the mood light and playful to help ease any tension. Remember to forget about the camera and just enjoy being in the moment together.
David Orr Photography twilight engagement session in the scenic paths of Desert Botanical Garden in Tempe, Arizona.
During the Photo Session: Embrace Imperfection.
Remind your partner that perfection is not the goal; it’s about capturing genuine emotions and candid expressions. It’s a time to enjoy each other’s company in a sincere and authentic way.
David Orr Photography engagement session in Desert Botanical Garden, with background yellow and purple glass sculptures by renowned artist Chihuly.
Be Supportive.
Offer your partner positive encouragement and reassurance throughout the session.
David Orr Photography afternoon surprise proposal engagement session at Desert Botanical Garden, Tempe, Arizona.
Trust Your Photographer.
Remember that your photographer is a professional, skilled at capturing flattering angles and genuine expressions. They want amazing photos, too! Trust them to work their magic!
David Orr Photography provides couples a beautiful tour during a visit to Desert Botanical Garden for engagement or proposal sessions.
Take Breaks.
Schedule breaks during the session to relax and recharge. Take a drink, rest those smile muscles, and maybe even try an outfit change.
David Orr Photography specializes in engagement and wedding photo sessions, featuring this Hindu engagement ceremony with friends and family at the Valley Garden Center in Phoenix, Arizona.
After the Photo Shoot: Celebrate Together.
After the photo shoot, celebrate with a night on the town. Explore a new restaurant. Relax with a cocktail. The experience is what you make it! Reflect on the fun you had together and your excitement to see the finished photo results.
David Orr Photography at Valley Garden Center engagement celebration in Phoenix, Arizona, featuring couple portraits and family and friend photo coverage!
Embrace the fun with engagement photos!
Capturing you both, together in love, is a magical thing!
When you approach an engagement photo shoot together with understanding, patience, and a receptive attitude, you and your partner will be able to enjoy and embrace the experience wholeheartedly. With the right mindset and intentional participation, you will not only help create beautiful and timeless images, but you will also share in strengthening your bond as a couple.
- Amanda and David Orr
Connect with us!
Learn about our photo sessions in the Phoenix, Arizona area:
VIEW DAVID ORR PHOTOGRAPHY SESSION PRICING:
Engagement Sessions in the Phoenix area and Arizona Outdoor Adventure Sessions
Wedding Sessions in the Phoenix area and throughout Arizona state
We pride ourselves in putting our hearts and souls into creating beautiful photography for you.
David Orr is the main photographer behind the camera, and Amanda Orr is the photo editor and album designer.
Together, we strive to make heartfelt, artistic imagery that not only sparks joy for you, but for all of your loved ones – today and for years to come!