Anyone who has planned a wedding will know just how overwhelming it can be. Between food tastings, cake designing, dress fittings, the to-do list can feel endless- not to mention your budget. While an engagement shoot may feel like something trivial to take a pass on when there are so many greater priorities for the wedding, I do believe that it is something that every couple should do and I’ll explain why.
Getting Comfy In Front Of The Camera
Unless you’re a Kardashian or have modelled for Vogue, having a lens pointed at your face can feel awkward. If ever you’ve been photographed, you may have looked back at the photos and thought ‘why was I smiling so stiffly’ or ‘god! I look so hunched’. We have all been there- yes, even me!
An engagement photoshoot is a great way to get comfortable in front of the camera. Think of it as a dress rehearsal for the big day. You’ll learn which angles work best, how to laugh on cue and how to smile without looking like you’ve seen a poltergeist. It’s also a great way for me to teach you how to pose in a slow and controlled environment so that when the big day rolls around, I just have to cue you and you know what to do (like learning dance moves).
It gives you a chance to go through the photos and work out which styles or poses you prefer, so I know what to capture more of on your wedding day.
Get To Know Your Photographer
Something that many couples may not consider before hiring a photographer is how much darn time they will be spending with this person on their wedding day. From the moment you get ready all the way to getting wasted on the dance floor- you could be spending over 12 hours with them. You’ll be going through some pretty emotional and stressful moments, so you need to make sure you get along. Being a photographer is not just about the art itself, but you almost become the bride and groom’s best friend for a day.
An engagement session is almost like a first date- but without the awkward small talk and split checks. It’s your chance to see how they work and whether they are compatible with them or not.
If you’ve been considering an engagement shoot a waste of money, then you could also consider the much greater amount of money you would be spending on this same photographer for your actual wedding, just to find out they were a dud. Consider it like a trial run- if you weren’t happy with the engagement photos, then you’ve got another chance to find a photographer for your wedding.
Experiment with Outfits and Location
This is where the fun really begins! Engagement photoshoots let you play around with different styles and locations in a way you can’t on your wedding day.
Whether it’s a floral maxi dress in a meadow or a sleek mini dress against an urban backdrop- there are so many creative choices that you can’t quite match on your wedding day. If you want to include your beloved pets in some photos but can’t bring them to the wedding day, this is also another great opportunity to capture those shots.
Capture Stress-Free Moments
Wedding day photos are magical but they can also be a tad chaotic. Engagement shoots on the other hand are very calm and relaxing. No timeline. No distractions. Just you and your partner sharing you love.
There is a certain intimacy that can be captured during engagement photos that is far greater than wedding photos. You have more time to relax and just enjoy the moment.
The Photos Can Be Useful
Engagement photos can actually be kind of useful. Many couples use them to announce their relationship status on Facebook. There’s something slightly more official about using professional photos to mark this milestone in your life than just gathering some iPhone selfies from a trip to Rome a few years ago.
The engagement photos can also be used for your invites, save the dates and website. In the age of social media, there’s no such thing as too much good content.
So, grab your partner, book in that session and let the magic happen! Your future you (and instagram feed) with thank you.
About Me
Vanessa Claire
Vanessa Claire is an engineer turned photographer. With 10 years of photography experience and a professionally trained background in landscape and travel, she has a unique skill for using natural light and composition to create remarkable images. Her vision is to create timeless imagery by utilising unique and creative compositions
Outside of photography, Vanessa loves travelling, surfing the coast and sipping on a good Nebbiolo.
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