Amanda Lougee
When it comes to engagement photos, finding a balance between natural, candid moments and feeling comfortable in front of the camera can be challenging. Amanda Lougee—a professional model, vintage fashion enthusiast, and soon-to-be bride—shares her best insights on making engagement photos shine. In a recent “Wine and Dine Me” podcast, Amanda offers tips for brides and grooms that transform what could be an awkward photoshoot into a joyful, genuine experience.
With her background in modeling, Amanda knows how to bring out authentic beauty in front of the camera. From setting a relaxed mood to practical styling advice, here’s a look at her top tips to make your engagement photos truly memorable.
Listen to the full episode via Apple Podcast and Spotify.
The Power of Natural Posing and Comfort
For Amanda, engagement photos are about capturing a genuine connection, not creating forced poses. She emphasizes comfort, particularly for grooms who may feel less at ease in front of the camera.
Let the Bride Lead: Amanda suggests that grooms keep their focus on their bride rather than the camera, helping them feel less pressured to “pose.” “When in doubt, gaze at her,” Amanda says. This approach creates more natural, effortless photos without forcing expressions.
Hand Placement Makes a Difference: Sometimes, small adjustments can have a big impact. Amanda advises grooms to keep hand movements relaxed and gentle, avoiding overly tight grips and, when possible, letting the bride place her hand over the groom’s. Whether holding hands or embracing, a softer touch creates a more natural look.
Posture for Both Partners: Good posture enhances photos, especially for taller grooms. Amanda’s advice? Keep shoulders relaxed and down, with a comfortable stance, which helps both partners look genuine in every shot.
Creating Looks That Feel Like You
Styling plays a big role in how comfortable and true-to-yourself you feel during a photoshoot. Amanda’s approach is to create engagement looks that not only suit the location but also reflect the couple’s personality and style. Here’s her best advice:
Match Outfits to the Setting: For her engagement shoot, Amanda chose a casual sundress for a field setting and a more formal dress for a city backdrop, while her fiancé kept things simple by changing only his jacket. This technique allows the outfits to work with the surroundings and keeps the focus on the couple rather than the clothes.
Layering and Accessories: Amanda believes that props and layers add depth to photos. Adding a layer, like a jacket or shawl, creates options to play with the layers as props, which can make for great variations in your photos.
Incorporate Vintage or Sentimental Pieces: Known for her love of vintage, Amanda recommends adding items with personal meaning. “It could be a vintage accessory, an heirloom piece, or something borrowed from a loved one,” she shares, adding that these elements not only are special but they make each look more memorable and unique.
Keeping It Fresh with Wedding Fashion Trends
As a model with connections in the fashion industry, Amanda attended New York Bridal Fashion Week to gather inspiration. Here are some trends she loved that brides-to-be might want to explore:
Fresh Silhouettes and Details: Amanda noted popular trends like structured bodices and large floral appliqués that add elegance and flair.
Shorter Dresses for Second Looks: Perfect for after-parties or intimate pre-wedding events, Amanda loved the idea of a second, shorter dress as a fun, modern option.
Honoring Your Personal Style: Amanda suggests staying true to your preferences, even if that means bypassing trends.
For her, incorporating vintage pieces feels right and allows her wedding look to feel like a true reflection of herself.
Amanda’s Top Tips for Relaxed Wedding Photos
On the big day, Amanda’s goal is to enjoy each moment naturally. She believes in minimizing pressure and making time for both posed and candid shots, ensuring the wedding day feels less like a photo session and more like a celebration. Here’s how she plans to keep things relaxed:
Focus on Moments, Not Perfection: Amanda’s best photos, she says, are often taken when she’s not overly focused on getting the perfect shot. “The best photos happen when you’re having fun,” she explains.
Plan for Outfit Changes: With multiple wardrobe changes planned for her wedding day, Amanda aims to capture varied looks. Brides can have a “going-away” outfit or a second gown for the reception to create elegant and diverse memories from each part of the day.
Amanda Lougee’s modeling experience and love for authentic, vintage-inspired style bring fresh ideas to engagement and wedding photography. Her tips empower couples to embrace who they are, making engagement photos a joyful and unique experience. For more of Amanda’s advice and to hear her full conversation with Reagan and Alyson, check out the latest episode of “Wine and Dine Me.”
Each couple’s journey is special, and with Amanda’s tips, you can make the most out of your engagement session and walk away with unforgettable photos.
Join our newsletter for weekly inspiration, updates, and expert advice.
Follow us on Instagram and TikTok for behind-the-scenes moments, trending ideas, and more.