Image by Kent Marcus via Winsome and Ben’s The Notebook Inspired Engagement Shoot
One of my favourite photos of my parents is from their ‘engagement shoot’. I remember being surprised when Mum told me the photo of her and Dad looking madly in love was from a professional portrait session and not from their actual engagement party. Fast forward 40+ years and engagement shoots have made a comeback. Here’s why:
You get to know your photographer
Keep in mind you’ll be spending most of your wedding day with your photographer so you want to make sure you are comfortable in their presence and confident with their work. Ideally, you want your photographer to feel more like a friend than a total stranger, to ensure your wedding photos look like the real you and not the staged/posing you. An engagement shoot also means you get to know more about your photographer’s shooting style and your photographer gets a better insight into the two of you as a couple. And once you see the finished product, if there are some shots or angles you’re not so keen on, you can let your photographer know well ahead of your wedding day.
Image by We Are Origami Photography via Donna & Sergio’s Formal Engagement Photos
You may just lose your dislike of being photographed!
It can be a daunting prospect to spend your day in front of a lens. Perhaps a photo shoot ‘rehearsal’ before your big day might be enough to convince you it’s not so bad after all. At the very least, it might help you to stop focusing on the camera and better focus on each other – something that should then (hopefully!) come naturally on your wedding day.
Image by Tealily Photography via Ana and Luke’s Travelling Hearts Engagement Shoot
Your photos will come in handy
Engagement photos are perfect for save the date cards, wedding invitations or even as gifts for both sets of parents. But they’re also something you’re bound to treasure – frame them or create an album. After all, it’s rare to have professional photos of you both, apart from those taken on your wedding day.
Image by Neiyo Photography via Sarah and Jacob’s Rustic Winter Engagement Shoot
Relax and have some fun with it!
Wedding planning can be stressful and sometimes the best thing to do amid the stress is take some time out together, relax, forget the checklists, smile, laugh, and have some fun. The beauty of a test run is it’s completely stress free – there are no wedding day nerves, no rushing, no reception to get to, no timelines – it’s just the two of you and your photographer – enjoy it!
Image by Mary-Jane Photography & Design via Cristina and Jared’s Urban Engagement Shoot
Ms Chinoiserie Says: Such great advice – take some time out from your wedding planning to have some fun; have a hair and make- up trial too and really enjoy the time together!
About Melissa Cornwall Marriage Celebrant: I love weddings and I love what I do. As a celebrant, my job is getting to know couples and crafting memorable marriage ceremonies – and that’s always such a pleasure and privilege.
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