As a plus size girl, sometimes I dread having my photo taken by others, so going into our pre-wedding shoot I was worried that our photographers wouldn’t be able to capture my best angle.

Having now done our shoot and receiving our photos back, I can truly say that any fears and doubts I had were gone. Not only did our photographers, T- One Image, find my best angle but they were able to capture what I was feeling in that moment – pure love!

When I look at the photos, I’m instantly transported back to that moment of being nervous, excited and vulnerable –  but most of all completely smitten with my fiancé.

There’s so much to take in when you’re getting ready for the shoot – hair, make up, outfit – even the weather. Here are some of the things that I found useful to consider before I stepped in front of the camera.

1. Find an outfit that flatters all your best assets and coordinate with your fiancé to ensure the colours work well together. For girls who are self-conscious about their arms I would suggest either a soft blazer or a bolero wrap – and for girls who are heavier around the hips and thighs,  I recommend a dress that cuts under the bust and flares out as this gives the illusion of a small waist and a feminine flirty look.

2. You’re location is important. Choose a place that provides a lot of different options and set ups. We chose The Paddington Reservoir Gardens; it is a public place that offers a lot of different backdrops and elevations which led to some great shots. Other good venues around Sydney include Sydney University, Martin Place, Town Hall and Observatory Hill.

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3. Remember – relax, breathe and have a laugh. There were times during our shoot where I was shaking like a leaf; I don’t know how celebrities handle having lenses pointing at them everyday! It’s quite daunting and can leave you feeling quite vulnerable. During the shoot my fiancé and I would chat about what we did that week or wedding errands we had yet to do; we even people watched and shared a few jokes – doing this allowed me to relax and enabled the photographers to snap some  fun shots which showed off our personalities.

I would definitely insist that you book a time with your photographer to do a pre-wedding shoot, it was so much fun. Not only will it allow you to become comfortable in their presence, but they will teach you the best ways to pose to show your off your best angle. The end result are beautiful photos – as well as memories to last a lifetime.

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Ms Chinoiserie Says: What a beautifully relaxed and romantic engagement shoot – your forward planning definitely paid off!!!

About Lana1709: I  am 24 years of age and a bride to be! I have known my fiancé since I was six years of age; our mothers have been good friends since they were in their twenties. We have been together for seven and a half years and we own five Pomeranian dogs. I work in the public sector and he’s a rigger. Our wedding is six weeks away just after our eight year anniversary! I would say I am someone who loves to plan to make plans to plan – I am always throwing parties for friends, organizing parties or planning parties. Lots of fun!!