Top Tips for photographing Couples !

With Valentine's day feels still in the air I thought I'd leave you with a couple of tips to keep in mind when shooting with couples. 

1-Get comfortable: This goes for both couple and photographer. If you don't know them, and even if you do (some people can get camera shy), spend some time chatting to each other. Get to know their favorite things and tell them about YOU. Best thing is to be holding your camera so it's there whilst they get at ease with you (make it an extension of yourself, not a prop).

 2-Evoke emotion: Have them look at each other whilst thinking back to the time they met or even tell a joke (dirty ones are the best!) . The "in between" shots will turn out to be your best for sure. 

3-Add movement: This is great for when people just "don't know what to do with their hands". If you notice they're a little shy or stiff, just have them physically do something and catch them in that moment. Try a running shot in your direction or even away from you. Have them walk or even play with each other and props you may have at hand.

4-Encourage Intimacy: By having a couple focus on themselves you will soon notice they'll feel as though you're not even there. Bonus! Soon they'll forget about the camera too and your shots will be all the more authentic! 

5-Choose the right environment: Here it's about making sure you make it as comfortable as possible for you all. You can choose to do the shoot at their home or somewhere they both have a strong connection to. Always good to entice those long kept memories. Bear in mind how this will affect the gear you have. If outdoors for example, be mindful of the time of day and how that can affect the look and feel you are hoping for. 

So there you have it. A few tips to get you started. Now go out and find a couple!

Love,
Patty
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