I'm going to let you in on a little secret. I don't love having my photo taken, either. It feels weird having a stalker with a camera follow you around in the forest, right? That's exactly why I won't make you do anything that makes you feel awky or uncomfortable. It's my job to do everything I can to make you look great in your photos, so I just focus on your natural chemistry.All my wedding photography packages include an engagement shoot, so that on your wedding day you'll feel completely at ease and know what to expect. Here's a little hint: lots of relaxed fun, cheeky whispers and a few little gentle prompts to let your true connection unfold naturally.In the lead up to these fun Sunshine Coast engagement shoots, most couples have lots of questions, so I thought I'd start by giving you 6 of my best tips on how you can nail your engagement shoot.

1. What To Wear To Your Engagement Shoot

We're not aiming for you to be the next Mr & Mrs Griswold here, so no need to come all matchy matchy (I heard you breathe a deep sigh of relief then)!Wear something you feel comfortable in. Something that makes you feel like a million dollars every time you put it on! If that's a dress, great. If it's jeans and top, that's absolutely fine, too. The last thing you want to be doing is having to constantly pull up sleeves that keep falling down or tugging at an uncomfortable, tight pair of jeans. You won't be relaxed in uncomfortable clothing and it will show in your photos.I'll likely throw in a few piggy back requests, too, so make sure whatever you wear, that you're comfortable.I super-love it when couples show up in classic outfits, because this means that in 20 years time your kids won't be looking back on your photos and laughing about the fashion circa 2020.

2. Book In Your Hair and Makeup Trial On The Same Day

If you really want to give your hair and makeup a good test drive, time your hair and makeup trial to occur before your engagement session. There's nothing better than seeing how it looks in your photos before your wedding day.And ladies, trust me. Professional makeup and hair makes the world of difference to your photos. Just the fact that you'll be feeling like the most beautiful version of yourself will help with any pre-shoot nerves, too.

3. Choose A Different Location

We're spoilt for choice here on the Sunshine Coast with the hinterland and the coast to choose from for your wedding day. If you found this decision a difficult one, and let's say you chose the coast for your wedding, then have your engagement shoot up in the hinterland.That way you end up with photos from the best of both places!I can absolutely suggest lots of locations, too, but just make sure you're choosing a location that means something to you. If you enjoy being in the great outdoors and taking romantic bush walks on the weekends, let's head to this place where I took Millie and Brad. It's one of my fave secret locations and the sunset is magic.

4. Flirt Baby, Flirt!

The guys are usually the ones that are more nervous when they arrive to the shoot, but believe it or not, they're usually the best at flirting. Flirting = fun! I'm still not sure what you fellas whisper into your fiance's ear, but they always smile the best natural smiles when this happens. So, flirt away. The more the better!And when you're done flirting, just kiss. Kissing is always a winner.

5. Golden Hour Is The Best Time Of Day

There is no need to take the entire day off work to schedule in your engagement shoot. The best lighting to shoot your photos is in the lead up to and during sunset when the sun's natural light isn't as harsh.

6. Make It A Date Night

You're already looking and feeling mighty fine, so pre-book a table at your favourite restaurant and head out for date night after your shoot. If you're not a local, I have plenty of nearby suggestions. Spoiler alert: Don't leave without dining at the Spirit House.And above all, remember that it's completely normal to feel a little nervous before your engagement shoot, but I guarantee within the first 10 minutes, you'll be loving every minute.

6 Tips For Your Sunshine Coast Engagement Shoot