Your engagement is a special time in your life. It is a time when you and your significant other are madly in love and preparing to spend the rest of your lives together.

Sometimes the build up to your big day can overshadow this season in your relationship. However, an engagement shoot can help freeze this part of your journey together so you can cherish it for years to come.

But what exactly should you plan for on your engagement shoot?

If you’re thinking of starting to plan your session, please read ahead to what you can expect on a shoot with me. 

Why Should We Have an Engagement Shoot?

First, it will capture your love story. Life can start moving fast as your wedding draws closer. But your engagement shoot will give you some time to yourselves. It will capture you in love, looking great and excited for the future together.

Engagement photos allow you to share your love and happiness with friends and family. It will also give you a collection of photos you can look back on for years. Seeing these photos in the years to come will put a smile on your face thinking back on your engagement and life during wedding planning.

But there is another important reason. In adding to having a collection of photos you’ll cherish for the rest of your lives, it will help us get to know each other. You’ll get to see how I work, and we can build our relationship before the big day.

Where Should We Take Our Engagement Photos?

This is another big choice you’ll have to make. Many couples will choose a special spot from their relationship. This can include a first-date location, a favorite cafe or any location that holds a cherished memory from your past together.

Choosing a location where you’re comfortable can have an added benefit. No matter if we’re taking photos in your home, a favorite bar or a park you went to on an early date, being in a comfortable environment can help put you at ease.

Or, if you’re totally stumped, I can offer some suggestions. If you’re having a hard time choosing a spot, don’t be afraid to ask for help! I’ve photographed hundreds of engagement shoots as photographer, and I am always scouting spots that could be magic!

Looking to take your engagement photos to the next level? Let’s hit the road. Learn more about destination engagement sessions with some of my favorite photos from past couples!

What Should We Wear for the Engagement Shoot?

First, it is important to wear clothes that highlight who you are. If you wear clothes outside of your comfort level, it can make you feel awkward and lead to a less than enjoyable shoot. Your engagement photos are about capturing who you are as a couple. You want to dress the part.

Consider having a wardrobe change. This can be a good way to capture photos that look a little more fancy along with some photos that are more casual. It’s the best of both worlds! At most, two outfits should do it. This amount makes sure you’re not rushing through your entire engagement session.

Finally, make sure to consider the time of year and location for your shoot. A scarf in the summer or a lack of a jacket in the winter will look unnatural and make you feel uncomfortable. 

How Do We Overcome Any Awkwardness?

Being in front of the camera can feel weird for a lot of people. I know the feeling. But I will do my best to make you feel more comfortable. Read more about what I do to embrace the awkward.

Also, this will get you ready for your big day. Being in front of the camera for a couple of hours prepares you for the barrage of photos you face on your wedding day. You’ll know what to expect and how I work. 

What Time of Day Should We Have Our Session?

The golden hour is the most in-demand time to do an engagement session. The golden hour is the time of day just before the sun sets. This time of day allows for warm, golden light in your photos.

Are you an early riser? Morning light can also make your photos look magical. Consider a sun-rise session. Afternoons can be tough as the light is the most harsh with the sun overhead

What Should We Do With Our Engagement Photos?

Your engagement session is over, and I’ve sent over your gallery. What do you do with the photos? Obviously, you can print them out and frame them for your home or send them to family. 

But there is so much more you can do with these keepsakes. You have several options of what to do with them. Here are a few ideas:

• Save-the-date-card
• Wedding favors
• Engagement party or bridal shower decor
• Custom photo book for guests to sign
• Blow up photos for the reception
• Slideshow to project during ceremony or reception

An engagement shoot is an important step in the build up to your wedding, and I am excited to be part of it! If you have any questions or want me to be part of your special day, please reach out!