This week I had the privilege of photographing one of my very favorite couples in one of my very favorite places- Rocky Mountain National Park. The weather was freezing and windy, but the photos turned out beautiful! I have been thinking a lot about what distinguishes good engagement photos from amazing engagement photos and came up with five good rules for couples to follow to capture those perfect moments:

• Coordinate your outfits to flow with the scenery. This is a big one. For large, sweeping landscapes, keep outfits simple and neutral. Bright colors and a lot of patterns will only compete with the background and you. On the other hand, if your location is more simplistic, bold colors might be the perfect way to stand out and make a statement.

• Be adventurous. This is your day! Take advantage of it! If you have a dream vision, go for it! Drive the extra hour to that perfect spot, wake up a little earlier to catch that perfect light. The photos will be worth it.

• Get to know your photographer a little ahead of time. The better I click with a couple, the better the photos turn out. I love getting to know my couples a little ahead of time so that we are all on the same page and the session feels more like a couple of friends hanging out and taking photos. I’m always happy to grab coffee or a drink before the session so that everyone is comfortable and relaxed

• Be flexible. Sometimes your perfect vision just won’t come to be and that’s ok! Maybe the weather isn’t perfect or a shot you really wanted just isn’t possible. Some of my very favorite shots have been taken completely spur of the moment and unplanned. Have a vision and a plan, but be prepared to make changes if needed.

• Be true to yourselves. If you aren’t an outdoorsy, nature-loving couple, it doesn’t make a lot of sense to trudge through the wilderness for engagement photos. They may look beautiful, but they won’t be authentic. Try to think of a spot that speaks to you as a couple. Not only will the photos be more genuine, but you will cherish them so much more for years to come.