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Most guys I’ve met don’t really enjoy having their picture taken (ahem, Jacob), let alone, having someone photograph them for an hour or more!

Jacob, Annie, and I took some family photos this past summer and while on our way home, Jacob said, “Wow, that wasn’t as bad as I thought it was going to be!” I didn’t expect him to say this, but I think, along with selecting the photographer that was right for us, there are a few things you can do to prepare your guy for your engagement or any portrait session!

 

Tell him what these photos mean to you, how excited you are, and why you chose that photographer

Typically, the girl is the one to select the wedding and engagement photographer, leaving the guy knowing little to nothing about the photographer, their style, or how they work. This can be scary for the guys, so to give yourselves the best experience, it is best to prepare him for the session.

Tell him what these photos mean to you. They’re important, because these images will be the face of your “save the date” you send out to family and friends, they’ll be images you hang on your walls, and they’ll be gifts to family during the holidays! They are images that you’ll show your children and grandchildren one day.

Showing your guy your favorite images from your photographer’s website or social media page is great too, because they can see the photographer’s work and it gives an insight of what to expect!

 

Be an encourager

Sometimes guys can become a little embarrassed taking pictures and being the center of attention. Before your engagement session begins, tell him how great he looks in his outfit. But honestly, compliment him the entire time. Simple comments like “You look really nice,” “I love your hair like that,” and “You should wear that shirt more often.” can do wonders for a person’s confidence!

The more comfortable he feels during your engagement session will calm his nerves and allow him to be more relaxed. The more relax he will be, the more natural your images will turn out. He will walk away telling you he really enjoyed himself!

 

Do something fun afterwards

Go out for dinner! See a movie! Meet up with friends! Go out for a drink or an ice cream cone!

You are both dolled up and looking really nice, so do something fun! Something to look forward to after your engagement session can be be great motivation.

Trust me, I know, you might leave with sore cheeks from smiling and laughing the entire time, but it’ll be worth it when you receive your online gallery!