Why You Need an Engagement Shoot

Let’s face it. The idea of posing in front of the camera for a few hours with someone you barely know doesn’t exactly give you the warm and fuzzies, does it? Well, unless you’re a professional model …  in which case, yeah, you’ll be totally comfortable! (:

An engagement shoot is an opportunity to not only get used to being in front of the camera, but also, to become relaxed and comfortable around your potential wedding photographer as well!! Think of it like “photo rehearsal for the big day.” 

And I whole-heartedly recommend it. Having an engagement session with the same photographer you’ve booked for your wedding day gives you a chance to get to know each other better, and make sure you vibe well — after all, your photographer is basically your third wheel all wedding day!!

Your photographer is going to want to learn more about you and your significant other, and help you make the most of the session by inspiring your natural loving interactions to capture the real, authentic “in-between” moments effortlessly — and have lots of fun along the way!

Love Your Engagement Photos

Pick a location for your photos that means something to you.

Maybe there’s a special location that means something to you? Or a place that holds a very special memory? Your hometown … where you shared a first kiss … where the proposal happened … and if you can’t think of a specific “somewhere,” that’s totally okay! 

What really matters is that you pick a location that reflects you as a couple. Maybe you are all about the city, or you absolutely live for the outdoors and stand by the phrase, #LakeLife? Just keep it true to you and it’ll feel special!!

Plan your outfits.

The biggest question that usually comes to mind before the session is, “what should I wear for my engagement photos?!” My advice? Always wear clothes that are comfortable and reflect your personal style! And depending on the length of your session, you could opt for an outfit change (1 casual option and 1 dressy option is alway great). 

If you’re not comfortable in what you’re wearing, or you feel like what you have on isn’t you, it’ll show in your photos (so, don’t throw on that trendy dress just because — throw on that trendy dress if you would wear it anyway!). Help yourself feel totally relaxed, and totally you, in your photos. 

I really enjoy helping couples decide what colors and outfits complement one another, and how they can beautifully reflect your personalities (and blend into wedding day vibes). Quick tip? Neutral’s always photograph well. And, I have a style guide with more specifics to help you work through the details!! (:

Cody + Maritza chose neutrals! You can see how well those colors photograph, and they aren't too distracting... not to mention, do you see how well they complemented the cool beach sunrise scene?!?!

Layers are ALWAYS great, and can add beautiful movement to photos. We decided to use the fun shades as accessories to the diner scene because this was more of a hang out / date / fun vibe!

While we kept the colors very simple, we utilized Maritza’s snake skin shoes to add a pop and showcase her stylish personality!

Consider how you’ll use your engagement photos — so many choices!

Your engagement pictures can be used everywhere! From your wedding website to marriage announcements (in the local paper, on social media, etc.) to save-the-dates. And let’s not forget that you’ll want to pick your favorite(s) and frame them for your home (:

Sometimes brides-to-be will even trial their hair and makeup artists for the engagement session so that they can see how they look in photos, and know if there’s anything they’d want to change before their big day. 

So, to recap, why are engagement photos a great idea? 

You’ll get totally comfy in front of the camera lens, enjoy time with your significant other (it helps you slow down from the craziness of wedding planning, and just enjoy one another for a bit) get to know your photographer before your wedding day, and have memories and gorgeous photos to use pre-wedding!

I hope you completely enjoy your engagement session (and your photographer)!!
xo, B’

Betty is a wedding photographer based in Des Moines, Iowa, capturing real in-between moments to create authentic and timeless photographs.