Rules of Engagement (Shoots)
Whether you’re going for wedding cake tastings, googling ‘wedding venues near me’ daily, or picking out wedding bands, it’s never too early or too late to look at your wedding photography options to capture the day you’ve been thinking about for so long. While we have plenty of different packages and a la carte options to add on we often get asked which ones are the best bang for your buck, and the answer is always the same: the engagement sessions.
As a wedding photographer, this is always our #1 choice! Not only are engagement sessions a fun way to capture your love story before the big day, but they also offer invaluable benefits that can make your wedding photography experience even better.
One of the biggest reasons to have an engagement session is to get comfortable being in front of the camera. Let’s face it—most of us aren’t used to having a lens focused on us for hours at a time, and that’s perfectly normal. During an engagement session, you’ll have the chance to ease into the process. You’ll discover how to pose naturally, find your best angles, and shake off any nervousness about being photographed. By the time your wedding day arrives, being in front of the camera will feel much more natural and enjoyable Click here to check out our tips for posing and share it with your party!
Another fantastic benefit is the opportunity to get to know your photographer. Wedding photography is about trust and connection—it’s our job to make you feel at ease and to capture your true personalities. An engagement session lets us build that rapport. We’ll learn how you interact as a couple, what makes you laugh, and how to bring out your best moments. In turn, you’ll get to see how we work, giving you even more confidence that your wedding photos are in good hands.
And let’s not forget the photos themselves! Engagement sessions give you a beautiful collection of images that celebrate this special time in your lives. Whether you use them for save-the-date cards, wedding décor, or just to share with friends and family, these photos are a wonderful way to showcase your love story.
Where To?
Choosing the perfect location for your engagement shoot is an exciting opportunity to showcase your unique love story and personalities. The setting you choose should resonate with you as a couple, reflecting not only your shared interests but also the essence of your relationship. Think about places that hold special meaning—where you had your first date, shared a memorable moment, or simply love spending time together. A location with personal significance can add a layer of intimacy and authenticity to your photos, making them all the more meaningful to look back on.
Your engagement shoot location can also be a reflection of your style and vibe as a couple. Are you drawn to the energy of the city, with its modern architecture and bustling streets? Or do you find peace in natural settings, surrounded by greenery or along a serene waterfront? Perhaps you’re an adventurous pair who loves unique and unexpected backdrops like graffiti-covered alleys or industrial spaces. Choosing a location that feels like “you” helps tell your story and ensures your engagement photos feel authentic. When you look at your images, you’ll see not only your love but also the little details that make your relationship one-of-a-kind.
Ultimately, the best location is one where you feel comfortable and connected. Whether it’s a cozy café, a sunlit park, or a grand historic venue, it should be a place that brings out your joy and lets your personality shine. Working closely with your photographer can also help you refine your choice, as they can offer insights on lighting, angles, and how to make your vision come to life.
Luckily for you, we’ve done part of your homework for you! Check out a list of our recommended locations!
Posing for your engagement photoshoot is all about letting your connection and natural chemistry shine. As wedding photographers, our job is to put you in poses where your unique personality can shine though – no one wants to look stiff as a board, or just plain bored, in their pictures, and we’ll make sure you don’t!
What can you do to help? Try not to focus on rigid, formal poses, and aim for a relaxed, more casual vibe. Hold hands, recall funny stories, or get close and cuddly for an intimate moment.
Movement often creates the most authentic shots, so we’ll likely ask you to walk, jump, or spin during the session.
Think of us as guides who will help you with prompts and suggestions to help you look your best, while keeping the atmosphere fun and easy going. The key is to trust the process, stay present, and focus on your partner—when you feel comfortable and connected, your love will naturally come through in the photos.
What About Your Furry Friends?
Including your pets in your engagement photoshoot is a wonderful way to celebrate your love story as a complete family. Pets bring personality, joy, and an extra dose of cuteness to your photos, making the session even more memorable. Whether it’s a playful dog, a curious cat, or even a more exotic companion, your furry (or feathered) friend can add an irreplaceable element of fun and authenticity to your images. After all, they’re part of your journey and deserve a place in these special memories.
To ensure a smooth experience, preparation is key. Start by choosing a location where your pet will feel comfortable. A park, backyard, or familiar outdoor space can help reduce stress, especially for animals who might feel nervous in new environments. If your pet isn’t used to being around other people, consider scheduling the shoot during quieter hours or picking a location with fewer distractions. It’s also helpful to bring along a friend or family member who can assist in keeping your pet entertained, cared for, or held when they’re not actively part of the photos.
Bring along essentials to keep your pet happy throughout the session. Pack water, treats, toys, and any items they find comforting. If your pet is wearing a special accessory like a bowtie, flower crown, or bandana, make sure they’ve had time to get used to it beforehand. Grooming your pet before the session can also help them look their best, but don’t stress over perfection—your pet’s personality is what will make the photos truly shine.
Lastly, trust us to capture these precious moments. We have experience working with all kinds of furry companions (though we’ll admit, we’re dog people), and can help create natural, candid shots while ensuring your pet feels at ease. Relax and embrace the unpredictability that comes with including a pet—some of the most delightful photos come from spontaneous moments when your silly, furry friend does something unexpected. With a little preparation and a lot of love, your engagement photos with your pet will be full of warmth, laughter, and memories that last a lifetime.
Booking an engagement shoot is more than just a way to capture beautiful photos—it’s an opportunity to celebrate your relationship and create lasting memories before the big day. It allows you to get comfortable in front of the camera, build a connection with us, and have fun with your partner in a relaxed environment. They’re also a chance to have fun and express yourselves—whether you want to revisit your favorite date spot, include your pets, or create something uniquely you.
An engagement session is more than a photoshoot; it’s a step toward creating unforgettable memories and stunning images for your wedding day and beyond. By the time we get to your big day, you’ll feel confident, comfortable, and ready to shine—and that makes all the difference.
