A lot of people don’t know what a pre-wedding or engagement shoot is. In simple terms, they are photo shoots that you have with your loved one before your big wedding day.

Wedding planning can be a stressful process. There are so many decisions to make and wedding suppliers to choose from, it’s no wonder that some couples feel overwhelmed. It can also be difficult to find an engagement shoot photographer in your area, which is probably why some couples haven’t thought of one!

The truth is, you are making a smart move by choosing to book an engagement shoot. Not only will it help you get comfortable in front of the camera, but it also provides a great way for your photographer or videographer to get used to working with both you and your fiancé before next summer arrives!

1. The engagement shoot will help you to get comfortable in front of the Camera

Most couples I meet tell me the same thing: “I’m not photogenic!” “He hates having his photo taken!”

I understand how these couples feel because I sometimes feel the same way about having my picture taken. To help you relax in front of the camera, it’s important that we establish trust, which eventually leads to comfort. As a photographer, I always keep in mind that my couples aren’t professional models – they’re real people who may not have been in front of a camera as much!

Get comfortable in front of the camera. An engagement shoot is a great way for you and your partner to get to know your photographer and how they work. Having engagement photos is a good time to get comfortable and natural in front of the camera. The truth is: The more time you spend with your photographer during this time, the more comfortable you will be on your wedding day.

The beauty of my documentary photography style is that couples become relaxed midway through a photo session, which allows them to share intimate moments as I remain in the background snapping away their romantic moments. Many times they don’t even notice I am there and I am taking photos.

2. You’ll get to know your photographer better—and vice versa.

Got some great news, though it might be tough to hear. You’ll probably spend more time with me than with anyone else on your wedding day. I’m the photographer, and I’ll be documenting the whole day from prep to after the first dance. An engagement shoot can help us get to know each other so that I am not some embarrassing stranger on your wedding day — you’ll at least know who I am!

I strongly believe that connecting with your photographer will result in more natural-feeling photographs. As a general principle in life, the more you connect with someone, the better you’ll feel about being yourself. As a photographer, I want you to let loose and be your weird, awesome self so your photos are as authentic as possible

3. You will receive lots of Great Images from your engagement shoot

Engagement photos or couple photos are not your average photo shoot. Your wedding day is a special occasion, so why stop at the photo? Why not make something even more special and gorgeous to cherish the memories?

Engagement photos are a great way to get lots of beautiful engagement photos that you can use for your Save the Dates (wedding invitation), announcements, decoration on your wedding day, or on social media.

You can use the photos to decorate your walls, whether they’re in the living room, kitchen or bedroom.

After I edit your engagement photos, I’ll probably send you around 50-100 images. That’s a lot of pictures.

4. Engagement photoshoot will help you to understand posing

I have my own foundation posing Framework. I give my couple lots of directions that let them look the best and the most natural.

Engagement photos are used as a tool to help me create the best possible wedding photography. The engagement session helps my couples prepare for the day of their wedding so they can focus on each other and not have to worry about posing. They can enjoy the day knowing that I’ve already been able to teach them how to pose and how to look the most natural in front of the camera, so when it comes time for their true wedding day photos, they will be able to relax and enjoy themselves without the worry of posing for hundreds of pictures.

Go to my Pinterest board and check out some of my favorite poses here.

5. It’s all About You

An engagement shoot is a chance to take the time just for the two of you, to get some beautiful, romantic shots. It’s a fantastic way to get images that show how much you two love each other, and it’s one of the best ways to relieve pre-wedding stress. During engagement photoshoots, we have much more time. There is no need to rush. What more engagement shoots are totally chilled out and fun. There’s no pressure and we can have some craic.

We have much more time to take photos. We can choose different locations.

6. The Opportunity For A Fun Adventure With Your Fiancé

One of my favorite things to do with couples is taking them somewhere they’ve never been for an adventure. Or maybe we visit a place that’s extra special to them. I’m partial to exploring the outdoors and finding a beautiful trail that leads to an amazing view. The options are endless.

Conclusion

If you are contemplating whether or not to have an engagement shoot, I hope I have at least provided some useful information for you to consider. An engagement shoot is a great way for you and your partner to get to know each other better. It will give you the opportunity to discuss your expectations with your photographer

Having an engagement shoot before your big day will help you to achieve stunning wedding images that fully capture the love between you and your partner – plus, it’s a fun way to get some practice in!

At the end of this short post, please remember.

When you book me as your wedding photographer you will receive a complimentary engagement  Shoot. Check my availability here.