Couples photography is a distinct and distinctive type of photography. Capturing the bond of two individuals is not something that can be easily accomplished, but when it's done correctly and properly, the results are often amazing. As photographer for a Dubai couples photographer, Alona Koenig has learned a few secrets about how to create amazing couple photos. In this post, we'll give you her top tips to take stunning photos of couples.
Get to know your subjects
The first step to taking amazing photos of couples is to get to know your subject. This means spending some time with them before the photo shoot, and getting to know their background and what makes them tick. Make sure you spend an hour or two with them, so you get a feel for their relationship. This will allow you capture their passion in a more natural and authentic way.
Strategies for how to get to know your subject
Find out how they got to know each other and what their first impressions of one another were.
Find out what their top things to do together are.
Ask about any special spots that have significance for the couple.
Plan the shoot around their love story
Once you have gotten to know the subjects you will need to begin planning your shooting about their story of love. This will allow you create a sequence of photos that captures what is the core of their love story. Try to choose places that are meaningful to them, or that hold a special significance for them. You could also consider doing an event with a theme for example, an outdoor shoot or shooting at a picnic.
Pro tip: If you are shooting in a location that is very special for the two of you, be sure to capture some pictures of them standing in front of the venue. This could range from their favourite restaurant to the place where they got married.
Utilize props to increase the interest
Another great method to spice up the photos of your loved ones is to make use of props. This could range from an arrangement of flowers to a piece of jewelry that has special meaning to the couple. The use of props can provide a new dimension to photos and make them unique.
A few ideas for props to use
Flowers in a bouquet
An item of jewellery
A love letter
A sign bearing the couple's name or initials
A scarf or blanket
Create a connection
A key aspects to keep in mind when taking couples photos is to create an emotional connection between the two subjects. This means that you should ensure that they are looking at each other and not directly at the camera. One method to accomplish this is to have them hold hands or put their arms around one other. You can also ask them to look into each other's eyes and engage in a moment of affection.
Some shot ideas for creating a connection
The couple with hands
The couple looking into each other's eyes.
The couple kisses
The couple are hugging
Make use of you environment
Another excellent tip for taking photographs of couples is to make use of the natural surroundings for your benefit. This means finding a location with great lighting and intriguing backgrounds. You could also try using various angles to enhance the photos. For example, you could take photos from above or below the couple.
A tip to follow: read more If you are shooting in a busy area, try to find a place that the couple can stand out from the crowd. It could be anything from an empty alleyway to the most private location in a park.
A few website tips to use environmental factors to gain
Find a location with great lighting
Seek out interesting backgrounds
Try different angles
Take advantage of natural props
Make use of natural props
One final suggestion for taking amazing couple photos is to take the advantage of props that are natural. This could be anything from a stunning sunset to stunning scenery. If you can figure out an opportunity to incorporate the natural world into the photos this will add an additional layer of interest and make them stand out.
A few ideas for natural props
Shooting at sunset
Photography in a stunning landscape
Incorporating flowers into the photos
10 great location ideas for your next couples shoot
1. The beach - The beach is a wonderful location for couples photos because it offers a variety of backgrounds and locations to pick from. Additionally, the natural light is generally perfect for photography.
2. A park A park is a great option for couples photos because it offers a variety of backgrounds and locations to pick from.
3. An urban setting If you're looking to add a bit of edge to your couples photos the urban setting is the perfect choice. There are endless options for intriguing backgrounds and locations.
4. A rustic location A rustic location, such as a barn or an old farmhouse can be a perfect backdrop for photographs of couples.
5. A mountain setting if you're looking for a breathtaking scene, a mountain setting is the ideal option.
6. A forest setting - If you want the most tranquil and natural environment one can choose a forest as the best option. The natural settings of nature are stunning and provide a wide range of places to pick from.
7. A lake or river Water settings are always incredibly romantic and create gorgeous photos of couples.
8. An architecturally interesting location - If you want your couple's photographs to be distinctive consider including an interesting architectural setting into the shoot.
9. Your backyard is often the most straightforward place to shoot is the best. Your backyard could be an ideal location to take photos of couples, particularly when you have a gorgeous landscaping or garden.
10. Anyplace that holds meaning for the two of you as a couple. The most important thing is to choose a location that is meaningful to you as couples. It could be where you first went on your date, or a place you've always dreamed of going. The sky's the limit.
Conclusion
Taking great couple's photos is about getting to understand your subjects and using the surroundings in your favor. As you will see, there are many things to take into consideration when selecting a location for your couples photographs. The most important thing is to choose a location that has meaning for you as a couple and that will create beautiful, unique photos.
Alona Koenig is a Dubai couple's photographer specializing in intimate and emotional photographs. She captures the bond and love between couples in a natural and authentic way. Visit her website to see some of her other work.