An engagement session (or pre-wedding session) is a photoshoot for you and your honey to celebrate your engagement! It takes place before the wedding in a location that is meaningful to you or a location of the photographers choosing.
I personally offer engagement sessions as part of my full day wedding photography packages, but I think it's also great to be able to book an engagement session without the commitment of booking a wedding photographer, especially for those who would like to experience how it feels to be in front of the camera.
However, are engagement sessions necessary? Here are my top 5 reasons to help you decide!
Feeling comfortable in front of the camera
As photographers we hear "I hate having my photos taken" or "I'm really unphotogenic!" all the time! And trust me I get it! It can feel a little awkward at first but it is my job to put your mind at ease and believe me, it really isn't as scary as it may seem. We will become good friends in no time and this will be just another fun day out. We will have you laughing and being playful without the stiff posing. It's in these natural moments we capture the best images, where we really see your connection as a couple and with a little direction from me and a whole lot of love between you, we will create stunning portraits that will have you saying "awww"
This is a chance to see what it will be like to work with your photographer, and if they are the right fit for you, which brings me to my next reason...
2. Getting to know your photographer
In my opinion this is the most important reason to book an engagement session. Your photographer will be with you the entire day of your wedding, you'll want to feel comfortable and relaxed in their presence and trust in their ability. An engagement session can help you decide whether they are the best fit for you. As your photographer it is equally as important for us to get to know you and your fiancé, to see how you interact with each other, what your interests are and how you envision your special day. All these things will help us better capture your unique relationship on the wedding day. I love to get to know my clients and build real friendships with them, I want you to be able to view me as another friend as this will allow me to capture the real emotions and tell your story.
3. Seeing how you look in professional photos before your wedding
This is an opportunity to see yourself in professional photos and discuss with your photographer if there are certain angles or shots you don't particularly like so they can be avoided on the day. It is also an opportunity to see how your hair and makeup will look in photos on the day. Some clients like to book their hair and makeup trials the same day as their engagement session which gives them and their providers a chance to make any alterations.
4. Romantic, creative, fun?- It's up to you!
You have control over the style, location, season and theme of your engagement session. You may want a relaxed woodland walk, or a more adventurous city scape as your backdrop, even a beach visit- because let's be honest, we can make a 2 hour drive to the seaside happen! I like to discuss with my clients first if they'd like to keep things casual or do something grand and fancy. It really is all up to you, however, if you don't have much of an idea then leave it with me, I'll put some ideas and locations your way and we can decide together.
5. Having professional photos to share before, or on your wedding day
You may want to use the images from your pre-wedding session to announce your engagement or to create more personalised save the date cards. Many couples include a photo board to display at the wedding of all their favourite moments together, places travelled etc. and find it's nice to have some professional shots too. You may want to use your images for your guest signing book or other wedding day keepsakes, to include in your wedding album! Or simply frame and display around your home.
So, Is an engagement session for you? If so, Let's chat more! :)