An engagement shoot isn’t a requirement, it’s a nice additional. If you’re able to do one, it’s worth considering. Especially if you have the opportunity to do one with the same photographer who will be capturing your wedding day.

Think of it as a test trial. It gives you and your partner a chance to get comfortable in front of the camera. It’s a chance to ease into posing and being professionally photographed.

For many couples, this might be the first time they’ve been professionally photographed together or even at all. An engagement shoot helps you understand how the photographer works. Couples can get comfortable posing in front of the camera. They also can get comfortable with displaying affection. There will PDA on your wedding day. The shoot give couples a chance to see what would feel like having that affection captured. At the same time, your photographer gets to know the couple and how you guys interact. Learning how you guys interact helps bring out the best angles.

It’s also a great opportunity to try out as close to the full look as possible. If you’re planning to try something different with your wedding day shoes, hair and makeup, the shoot can be a test trial. That way you can see how comfortable you feel in the look. You’ll walk away with insight on what feels natural and photographs well and what you may want to change.

One last added bonus is the photos from your engagement session can be used for wedding essentials. They can be used on the wedding website, save-the-dates, and even guest books.

Overall, an engagement session builds connection, comfort, and confidence before the big day!