How to Photograph an Engagement Session (BEHIND THE SCENES)

[@Scott_Alexander]

Breaking the ice during group shots and couple shots, my go-to is "A little happier, a little happier, ok, that's too happy, bring it back down a little..." This usually gets the ACTUAL happy face out of the couple or even a whole family group

[@mjolnirbull3779]

That’s a really good tip lol

[@chain.driven]

That’s great. Got any more?

[@AS-rp7qd]

I’ve never heard a photographer describe with such genuine words about removing yourself from the story and focusing it all about them, bringing their story into focus, their life, their relationship. You’re an amazing photographer and an even more amazing human.

[@EricFloberg]

😭❤️

[@AS-rp7qd]

I teared when you talked about playing the other couple’s first dance song and how much it must’ve meant for them. Your video about posing/photography made me reflect heavily on my own relationship. Please keep doing what you do, you have a gift.

[@chrisjaime4453]

Best tip, Whisper favorite vegetable in a sexy voice. Definitely going to use that one on my next engagement shoot! Thanks KZbin Dad!

[@EricFloberg]

lol I shouldn't have made that seem like it was my own - definitely learned that from my friends over at Mango Street 🤘

[@rileychaney2003]

This was literally the most genuine thing I have heard out of a photographer's mouth. You're real man. Appreciate you!

[@EricFloberg]

Wow. So kind. Thank you!!

[@leathenjin]

Riley Chaney, I agree with you. This was quite refreshing to hear a photographer genuinely focusing on taking the people's precious moments/ relationship instead of hearing "1 hour of session time of however many digital prints for X amount of $$"

[@radomirpesek8720]

Bro not only during the video I was like, damn this guy deserves a like for sure, but even afterwards at the end of the video, when you spoke about the engagement session about not just a job, but about bringing a memory to the couple and that it's mostly about them, it just resonated in my ears and put a great direction into my future photography! Thank you for that! First video I've seen from you btw. definitely not last!

[@artistandcamera3245]

can't express how important music actually is for getting the vibe going!

[@jbivphotography]

YEEEEEEEESSSSSSSS Thank you for putting the tip about not doing 1-hour session. My first year I did the 1-hour session thing and it just didn't feel right. Moved on to 2-3 hour engagement sessions and that is EVERYTHING. More time for the couple to warm up, more time for us all to warm up to each other, to get to know the couple and maybe even do multiple locations. Great video thanks for sharing!

[@EricFloberg]

My dude! Right? Same thing here. 1 hour always felt way too panicked. I love just chilling for the first 15 minutes talking and hanging out haha! Thanks for watching, John!

[@sandydessalines9574]

What do you charge for 2-3 hours??

[@anirbanbose9974]

I'm a simple man, i see Eric's vid, I click.

[@EricFloberg]

What a guy. 🙏🏼

[@GerryLaytin]

Eric! I photographed my first wedding in 1985 and had my studio in NYC for years. The last wedding I shot was in May 2020 and it was a mask on/mask off day. Tomorrow I have my first engagement session in years. I sat at the couple's kitchen table and talked about what's important to them (they happen to be my next-door neighbor here in Florida) and I wanted to see what the new generation of photographers is doing. It felt good to see that much of what I have done over the years is still a staple of what you do. But, I have to tell you that I learned quite a bit. I am a lifelong learner and I'm grateful to have found you. Cheers!

[@AmendMD]

"They aren't technically engaged anymore" 😫 "They got married this past summer" 😅

[@EricFloberg]

😂😂😂 I thought the same thing when I listened back while editing hahahaha

[@5thElementDFW]

Lmao same.... I was like “oh no!!” Then I caught on

[@xOctavioSx]

I had the exact same reaction

[@MabelVelazquezP]

I cried when you talked about the photos in the room and he said that was one of the best moments of his life.

[@insaugram]

i see your comedy talent is overshadowing your photography talent

[@EricFloberg]

Aw, how sweet

[@insaugram]

@@EricFloberg i just subscribed you when i found your channel few hours ago. sorry for not being there since the very beginning *dramatic piano

[@jptriguy]

This is insanely helpful to me - and also, I live a mile from that location. I have my first engagement shoot coming up tomorrow, and I feel so much more confident just watching this video. Amazing stuff, and beautiful finished product. Keep on clickin'!

[@richardthompson7671]

im serious when I say this is fantastic and I wish every photographer would watch this...over and over

[@Dinosnore7]

“These photographs are about what they mean and not how I can get Instagram famous.” This is EVERYTHING! Thanks for having an amazing approach to portraits. This is exactly why I love portrait sessions. 🥳

[@Roseinda_Ghirawoo]

I can tell you’re so genuine and I feel so inspired by you and thank you for sharing your tips and tricks. ❤

[@deewonda1952]

This was VERY helpful for me! I mainly shoot headshots and branding photography, and I haven't done an engagement/couples session in over 3-years and two state-to-state moves ago. A networking friend connected me to a couple who want an engagement shoot and I needed a "refresher" course. Your video was exactly what I needed. I even remembered where I had filed those old engagement session images. I feel sooo relieved! Blessings!

[@xSam_u_el]

This video has me pumped for whenever I have my next couples shoot! I really want to work on slowing down a bit for my shoots and not being so stressed about time, so thank you for pointing that out!

[@jpmissmo]

WE NEED MORE VIDEOS LIKE THIS. SO GENUINE AND EMOTIONAL. It’s not just another “tutorial” on how to do an engagement session but rather a true and great lesson on keeping it real at every shoot. And also, great tip for bringing a speaker. 👍🏽

[@reveillem0name]

This is really the loveliest video I’ve found. So often posing couples can become a purely practical process. This has really gone back to why I got into shooting and helped me to think about my approach to shooting couples again.

[@oliviadawn9002]

Wowowow. I loved what you said about it being more about them than about us.

[@breathemovebliss]

Thank you for this fantastic video! It was helpful and inspiring, the images are gorgeous, and I love your thoughtful, client-centered approach and that you put your heart into it. You almost made me cry. You are definitely the photographer I would want to do my photoshoot if I were near Chicago.

[@jacobsherf6572]

Romantic jams playlist is the best. Get on it people!! Thanks, Eric for the great compilation!

[@9xixix9]

Love your authenticity, honesty and genuine love for the craft and your clients. This is truly inspiring and I didn't expected to be touched by a video I only just came across to get some pose tips :P Keep up the wonderful work and I know you'll touch a lot of people's lives for the better!

[@-muk1lty343]

Just wanna let you know. Tomorrow, the 2nd on december 2022 is my first engagment photoshoot. You basically tought me what to do and you made me so calm for that day. THANK YOU VERY MUCH❤️

[@jasminewatson4013]

wow your amazing. This was the best break down I have ever seen! You can tell you really love what you do and it is so inspiring.

[@mdotbrown71]

One of the better videos I've seen on this subject

[@KLPPhoto]

Aside from your clients, being a photographer without coworkers can be a little lonely sometimes. BTS videos like this help me feel a part of a genuine community that’s documenting love and positive moments in people’s lives. Love all these tips my friend!

[@mhoctober]

Love the Bluetooth speaker idea! That's awesome and I'm goner buy one soon!

[@alannaperez6084]

Thank you. You’re so inspirational with the way you explain and breakdown your processes and how you build relationships with your clients. I can’t tell you how many videos I’ve seen recently bringing up “batch shooting” “how to charge” etc, and I get it I’m sure those work in certain situations. However the mentality that you bring and express on your channel is truly a game changer, and really resonates with me. So thank you for being real and sharing your knowledge on here! 🙌🏽

[@lelaniepotgieter8316]

You are so good!!! Thank you for the tips! love your photography style

[@BenjaminColeSander]

I always struggle to throw together a relevant playlist before sessions - thanks for the Spotify helps!

[@EricFloberg]

least I could do in return for your gift 😂

[@christianharsa1446]

There are so many fun applications for this video. Love it!!

[@EricFloberg]

So good to hear! Thanks, Christian!

[@Lindsay48481]

Even for someone who has been doing this a few years, it’s a great refresher! Thanks for all the great content!

[@EricFloberg]

yes! So good to hear! :) Thanks for watching!

[@erickA-Nfilms]

I took screenshots of your poses and downloaded the app before a shoot. It helped me tons! Thank you for the advice!

[@210caulfield]

Thank you. I really enjoyed your low key but genuine approach in this video. I’m doing an engagement shoot in two days and your advice and tips are much appreciated.

[@hurleygreen927]

Love your video on couples photography and especially the backgrounds, because I'm also a Chicago photographer! :)

[@nelson5871]

i've watched it 2 times already ! First time alone, second one with my wife :) We loved it !

[@liouhdz]

Amazing!! Thanks for sharing your best practices and experience!!

[@coloradoweddingphotographer]

This is everything I wanted for Christmas. Thanks dad!

[@EricFloberg]

Yes! You're welcome!!

[@reyndelosreyes4583]

AHH!! This video makes my heart beats! ❤️❤️

[@kirstenfenn9843]

Omg absolutely LOVED this video + the shoot you captured - your style and approach to your shoots really resonates with me. Feeling inspired. Thanks for this!

[@nishanthas3050]

Thank you for this wonderful video. Got to know a lot of tricks and tips.

[@AsianGargamel]

Love this video and overall approach😍

[@ahohey]

Oh the last guy ❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥

[@SageCypher]

I loved the double exposure shots! as a new budding photographer I find those to be superdope

[@BoojeeKnights]

The bluetooth speaker is a really good idea. Also good call on Unscripted. That's something that I could definitely use in the future.

[@misssusyramos]

You are so talented. Beyond inspired.

[@chrisandjenelle]

Doing my first engagement photo tomorrow and this helps a lot! Thank you!

[@TheZachMendez]

Hi, Eric! - I've been following you for several years now & just signed up for your Patreon. Wow. Thank you for your work. I am so impressed by the amount of value you have packed into that platform. It's basically like finding a photo mentor who we have access to 24/7 for just a few bucks a month. My mind is blown. Should have done it sooner! Best wishes to you & your family for the New Year. Cheers!

[@EricFloberg]

Thank you so much for signing up, Zach!! So happy you’re finding value in it. Can’t wait to keep making much more this year!! 🤘🏼🤘🏼🤘🏼

[@vindeshe3564]

You Earned my sub😊. Great video and even better shots❤ respect from Milan, Italy

[@samplesphotocinema9406]

Eric, killer shots man. Your stuff is phenomenal as always.

[@EricFloberg]

Thank you so much!!

[@TheKevinUtz]

This video is super cool!! I really needed it. Thanks for the playlist and the app recommendation as well. Loved it!

[@EricFloberg]

Thanks, Kevin! Absolutely, my man. Happy to help!

[@sulaymen]

I don't know how you do it, but everytime when I see your video, I got so emotional!

[@photoandlifeconnections7455]

Thanks man. . All tips that you mentioned are great. And i emotionally and happy bout the no. 7 and the bonus tips. . Its not about you, its about them. .

[@dharuacharya]

Hell of a video. I love your work. Thanks for sharing.

[@ConsoleAuthority]

I am done with bhatsssap!! (As said bySean tucker) .... I actually learned a lot..... Thank you man.... I have worked 11hrs non stop coding .... This made my day

[@KylerSteele]

Been meaning to make a playlist for my shoots. Def going to check out yours

[@makaelaskinner1932]

I just discovered you! this video reminded me why I do photography and why I want to do it full-time someday

[@mk-xq6vk]

thank you for the great tips! I appreciate it a lot

[@emotiongraphersfilms3625]

The video is really on point. Thanks for sharing this with the community Eric, its very much helpful when such videos are there to guide you and help you plan with how and what we can shoot with our future clients. PS - Its a great blend of your BTS and on cam talk to guide it through… Loads of love.

[@bensstudios288]

U just soo real eric.....thanks for de tips bro

[@abhishekjain6442]

I'm an amateur photographer i shot a engagement last week and i was nervous. This Video filled me with confidence!❤️

[@anaruchurch3691]

My gosh, what a great video 😌 you're great

[@danaalmario]

This is so cool! I just started photography recently and have been trying to learn as much as I can. So awesome to see someone from Chicago here on KZbin.

[@Bb4r]

Thank you very much Eric. This video is going in my save bin.

[@joshuakim802]

This video is exactly what I was looking for, presentation was fantastic, enjoyed the editing and composition. Explained so well, that even a dummy like me can understand. I even downloaded the app, because it actually is helpful. Thank you :)

[@chanelle.n]

You’re absolutely skilled! Thanks for sharing your talent with all of us. I’m definitely inspired. 🙌🏽

[@ivan0bebe]

Love this kind of videos. So much that yo can learn. Thank you very much!!

[@tyronrossphotography]

I don't know how you do it, but each and every video is infinitely better than the video before, which in and of itself, was amazing anyway! You literally are #goals

[@markledingham4942]

Thank you, Eric, I can’t tell you how helpful this video has been!

[@Kadehr]

Man, I'm so glad I found your channel Thank you, just thank you

[@bo0gab0o13]

I thought this was just another casual walk-in-the-park tutorial kinda deal. Then by mid video, I had to full rewind and bust out my notes. Thanks Mr. Dad! Keep more coming please! 🙏😁

[@sandiegoengagementphotos9495]

These are so good, very nice!

[@JWilson82]

Thanks Eric! Always try to refresh myself before a shoot. This was a lot of help! Especially liked the "Sexy Vegetable" idea!

[@ckritzelt]

Just recognized that I always watch all your videos till the end. I think thats a good thing (at least for you hopefully) :D

[@monikarichansampert5836]

Really great. Humor and info., my kind of style where you focus on the story and not the fame/money. Aweseome stuff, will be following you for sure! and thanks!

[@Clumsy83]

Thanks a lot for this video. I learned a lot watching this.

[@5thElementDFW]

Dad!! Great video. Hope you had a great Christmas and have a wicked New Year!!

[@EricFloberg]

Thanks so much!!!

[@chrisrandlephoto]

Best on da youtoobs. Ace stuff man!

[@EricFloberg]

Too kind! Thanks so much, Chris!

[@storiesbyad]

Each and every tip is gold... ❤️

[@209lapko]

Brilliantly done!

[@jerrym8140]

Good stuff. For my sessions I always tell my clients to plan on an extra half hour as I want them to just relax and have fun and not worry about the time too. Worst case scenario we still end on time.

[@Musiqfan23]

Really good tips to use. Thanks

[@nichz82]

As inspiring as usual, I’ve been a fan since years ago and thank you for the directions especially when i’m lost after 8 years in wedding photography where everything seems to be stagnant. Thank you my youtubedad

[@gengphoto]

Great video. Really impactful points. Thanks so much for sharing your insights Eric!

[@Kr4y0nS]

this was a great video Eric, thanks for this! real tips.

[@joshfrisbie3989]

Thanks man. This video was very informative. I thinking about getting in the game of photography. Thanks again.

[@JOERUFFINO]

Definitely saving this

[@jamesogara2219]

Fantastic guide thx.

[@JohnLFilm]

this is great! thanks for the advice man!

[@thephotographerdiaries]

Killing It Dude! Loved This Video

[@a.jol.sr_photography]

This was an absolute great video. Laid out everything perfectly. Thanks for sharing

[@qayumhibatullah]

This video is so helpful. Thank you so much Eric!

[@EricFloberg]

So good to hear! Glad I could help!!

[@graceshlonsky7066]

This was amazing! Thank you so much for putting this video together. Gorgeous images and I love how the entire session was a story. I never thought about playing romantic music for my couples, as I usually just have baby shark going for all the kids! Definitely adding that to my wheelhouse.

[@annayang9756]

What a stunning shoot! This was so helpful tysm!

[@EricFloberg]

Thank YOU so much, Anna!

[@markbehrens5828]

Good stuff, followed the link and ordered the speaker!

[@kodiak4777]

Doing my first photography shoot tomorrow for two friends. I am absolutely terrified since I have only been doing photography for a few months. This video really helped. Thank you Eric.

[@joaquinespinosa6613]

Hey how’d it go?! I’m in the same position actually and it’s my first time having people approach me for photos!

[@kodiak4777]

@@joaquinespinosa6613 It went okay. I’m not super used to doing portraits so it was very new. But it was a good time 🙂

[@memereview5836]

Yoo my dad is KZbin famous

[@laurencebernabe1829]

Dude! Awesome tips. Been doing weddings since 2012 and I feel like there’s a lot more to learn. Your color grade is perfect too! Subscribed.