France is a country well known for love and all things romantic – this is why cities such as Paris are considered to be one of the most popular parts of the world in which to ask for a person’s hand in marriage.

When couples get engaged, a great way to celebrate this marvellously romantic time is by holding a photoshoot in a beautiful part of France to mark the engagement and the start of the plans that will lead up to the big wedding day.

They’re photographs that are likely to be cherished for some time, so it pays to be prepared beforehand to make it the most perfect occasion that it can be. Here are some great ways to prepare for a French engagement shoot:

Find the perfect location

Now, chances are, you’ve already got the location spot on, because it’s there that you popped the question.

And of course, in the same way that there are so many amazing venues in which to hold a French wedding, there are also some stunning locations in France to hold an engagement photoshoot.

But, make sure to choose carefully between stylish cities, glittering coastlines, alpine villages, endless vineyards, lush woodland and rustic beauty – and get it spot on for you both as a newly engaged couple.

Secure the perfect photographer

In the same way that the location has to be completely right, so does the photographer who you choose to take the photographs.

Many have very different styles of photography, so make sure that it’s the kind that you want. Someone who will portray the story of your romance and love for each other in a way like no other and in the way that you want them to.

Be honest about your likes and dislikes

Ensure you talk to the photographer before the shoot and let them know about any of your photographic pet hates, such as a certain angle that you dislike, or facial expression, or part of your body – the list goes on, but, chances are they’ll have plenty of ways around it.

Choose your perfect outfits and have your hair done professionally

If you’re choosing to hold your engagement photoshoot in France, then it’s vital that you look as stylish and a la mode or classically chic as possible. It’s practically illegal to not be stylish in France (pretty much), so choose your outfits and hairstyles wisely!

(And to be honest, it’s important you love your outfits and the way you look too, because the secret to having photos that you’ll cherish forever is to ensure you like yourselves in them).

Practise your poses (including that long lingering kiss…)

Engagement photo shoots are slightly different from other, more general ones, but they make great practise for the photos on your wedding day. So, ensure there’s plenty of romance in the air during the shoot, practise the shots where your engagement ring will be proudly on display and also that long, lingering kiss.

As awful as it might sound in front of a virtual stranger, learn to pretend that the photographer isn’t there and be as natural as you can. They might ask you to hold the pose for a good few seconds in order to get the best shot, so be prepared to keep looking natural.

And finally – remember to relax and enjoy what there’s every chance you’ll look back on as one of the most wonderful times of your life!