Why Bother with an Engagement Session?

If you are reading this post, I’m guessing that you are newly engaged- SO CONGRATS! This is such an exciting time…you can’t stop looking at your hand (yep, the ring is still there ;) ) and now you get to start the hunt for all things wedding. While you are searching for wedding photographers, the thought may occur to you- why bother with an engagement session?

I know, I know..one of the biggest reasons might be that either you or your fiancé are just not super comfy in front of the camera, and you can think of a million things you’d rather do with your time.

Or maybe you figure, (especially if you are a destination couple), you could just have a friend or someone in the family take a few quick snaps?

If any of these reasons resinated with you, here are some thoughts to consider-

1- Your engagement session is the perfect “excuse” to meet your photographer before the big day.

While I am totally willing to just show up on the day of and work the crowd, there is something so special about locking eyes with the bride when I walk into her getting ready and the comfort and excitement that comes with that, rather than walking in and having to ask who/where the bride is and then quickly getting introduced before the busy day begins. I actually had a past bride (who I did an engagement session for) send me an email with these words-

“I instantly felt comfortable when you walked in - I could tell you anything (like how badly I wanted to get out of the hair & make-up chair or when people were driving me crazy) without judgement. I don't know if you realize how much it meant to me to have you around during those few stressful moments - your presence was just so comforting and bright and positive.”

Now, I can’t say that meeting your photographer on your wedding day won’t work, but I do think that peace of mind of connecting before really does make a difference!

2- If you are are a destination couple, plan your e-session around the time you will be in town anyways (to see your venue, meet with your planner, do food/cake tastings, etc.)

Most photographers will totally get accommodating to your travel schedule- and even if you can only fit in a mini session, at least you’ve connected.

3- You’ll have a huge gallery of photos to chose from for save the dates, invites, and your wedding website! There is nothing wrong with a selfie (we all have a million of ‘em), but sometimes it’s nice to have more of a polished look for these special times.

And now, a little bonus for reading this far- some insider tips for you!

1- Not a huge fan of dressing up (so you don’t have a huge collection of clothes to chose from in your closet) but you want to look a little extra special for your session? Check out Rent The Runway! You can “borrow” a super cute outfit, wear it, and then send it back! Saves you hours of shopping, and having a dress you might not see wearing again sitting in your closet for years after.

2- Schedule your hair and makeup trial for the same afternoon as your engagement session! You’re gunna get all dolled up, might as well utilize it (and then get your money’s worth and head to dinner afterwards!)

3- Since most engagement sessions are done during the week (weekends get booked up quick with weddings), pick a day of the week that you know you won’t be as busy, or that you can take off a bit early from work. You don’t want to feel stressed rushing from the office to make it to your hair and makeup trial and your session on time. Remember, this is supposed to be a fun experience, not something you just need to check off your list. Stress never looks good in photos ;)

And if you’re curious to see an engagement session, check out this blog!

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