As a photographer, I have had the pleasure of capturing some of the most stunning moments between couples. Whether it’s an engagement or simply a couple in love, there’s something magical about photographing them during sunset.
Sunset is a time of day when the light is warm and soft creating a romantic backdrop
for couples photography. The golden hour, as it’s known, occurs just before
sunset, and is the perfect time to capture breathtaking photos of couples.
Another advantage of photographing couples at sunset is that the environment is typically more relaxed and intimate. During this time, the hustle and bustle of the day has passed, and the couple can simply focus on each other, making it the perfect time to capture those intimate moments of connection and affection. The calm and tranquil ambiance also helps couples to feel more at ease, resulting in more natural and authentic expressions.
Above is a photo I took just after a couple got engaged. I love the backdrop of the ocean and the warm colors and how it brings a sense of joy for the new beginnings to come. Add a ring, a bottle of champagne and the promise of a new future and you won’t be disappointed with the sunset photos we take.
If you’re planning a couples photography session, consider scheduling it during sunset to take advantage of this beautiful time of day. Contact me to schedule a time to shoot.
Whether you are doing your hair and makeup yourself, or you are hiring a professional. Here are some hair and makeup ideas:
For Females:
Use natural makeup for a simple, natural look which can enhance your features without being too overpowering. Choose neutral shades for your eyes and lips and a light foundation that matches your skin tone.
Make sure your hair is clean and styled neatly. This includes removing any stray hairs, ensuring that your hair is free of frizz and flyaways, and making sure your hair is evenly styled.
Keep it simple and opt for a classic, timeless style that’s clean and polished. Avoid elaborate updos or hairstyles that are overly trendy.
Choose a hairstyle that flatters your face shape: You want a style that complements your features and creates a balanced, flattering look.
For Males:
A clean shave can make you look well-groomed and fresh. Make sure to use a good quality razor to avoid irritation and razor burn.
If you prefer a more rugged look, you can trim your facial hair to create a well-groomed beard or mustache.
Natural hairstyles can complements your face shape and can be a great choice for your portrait. Use a good quality shampoo and conditioner to keep your hair healthy and shiny.
A side part can create a clean, polished look for your portrait. Use a comb to create a defined part and keep your hair in place.
Tips I use to take stunning portrait photos
I mostly use natural light: I take advantage of natural light sources such as windows or outdoor locations for the most flattering portraits.I pay attention to the background: Since I mostly shoot outside, I choose walls, windows and other natural environments (including the beach) around Santa Monica and Culver City to ensure that the background does not distract from the subject.I get close (not too close of course): I move in close to my subject to fill the frame and make sure the focus is on themI use a shallow depth of field: This will blur the background and draw attention to the subject’s face.We try different poses: I give direction to the subject to ensure we get the best shotI pay attention to facial expressions: Capturing a genuine smile or a more serious gaze can make a portrait more compelling.Edit selectively: I use editing tools including Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Lightroom to enhance the light and color in your headshots, but am careful not to over-edit and detract from the natural beauty of my subject.
