A lot of couples ask about engagement photos. And no, they are not necessary for great wedding day pictures, but it doesn’t hurt :) We understand logistics and schedules can be an issue, but if you can swing it, let’s make something together!
Here are just 5 reasons to get an engagement session. And if you’re somehow still looking for a photographer, I can recommend a really good one ;)
Also, side note. Do you say engagement shoot or engagement session?
#1 We get to hang out!
You’ll be spending a lot of time with us at the wedding. This is a great way to not just break the ice (and become best friends!?), but lets us get an idea of what works. We’ll play around with different poses and interactions to find what makes you look/feel your best! To quote that Men’s Wearhouse guy “you’re going to love the way you look.”
It also takes a lot of the pressure off. It’s no secret that getting your picture taken can feel “awkward” at first (what do I do with my hands?) My favorite thing to hear at the end of each shoot is, “that was actually a lot of fun!” If it feels awkward, it’s probably going to look that way. My job is to break the stereotype of ho-hum engagement photos and create an experience that you’ll actually want to do again!
#2 You get to dress up.
Let’s be honest, who doesn’t love getting new clothes? And heck, if you don’t want to buy, you can rent! Sites like Rent The Runway have made it so much easier to get a high-end look without the huge investment.
You may even have some incredible outfits that you’ve been saving for just such an occasion! The idea is when you look your best, you feel your best. This is also a great time for a hair/makeup trial!
Honestly, dressing up can instantly give your images a high production look. It doesn’t have to be to the nines (again, we want you comfortable) but this is your excuse to get a new dress (or suit, guys) and wear something that makes them say wow! Feel free to reach out for recommendations, we are more than happy to help style the perfect shoot for you.
Heck, book a nice dinner after the session! You’re already dressed up and feeling the love, make it a date night ;)
#3 They tell a story.
Life changes! It’s certain. You may not always live in that downtown apartment (or wherever you live now.) You may not always love that restaurant/bar or all consuming hobby. Your hair style is going to change—fashion tastes certainly will!
These are slice-of-life images that tell your story. Your life right now—how you look, how you feel, and what you like! Feel free to express yourself.
I love when couples incorporate themselves and their story in the shoot. We could go to the proposal spot. Your favorite park or part of town. Have a pet or hobby? Feel free to get creative! I’m always game to mix things up.
#4 It’s fun!
Remember, these aren’t the bland, regular engagement photos you’ve seen on Facebook. Let’s go hiking or find some rooftops downtown! Let’s shoot at night or on a boat. Why not a hot air balloon? Have the shoot in your home and cook something together! Kennywood? Picnic? Museums?
Honestly, the hard part is narrowing down ideas! And we have plenty. There are hot photo spots in town or we can find something new. Either way, you’ll have a story to tell, and photos to go along with it.
#5 They’re really nice to have.
You’re going to use these images. From wedding websites to save-the-dates, pictures just tell a better story. And we’re talking creative images that show some personality! These are you in 100 words.
We live in a digital world, and at some point, you’re going to want nice professional photos of yourself. And yes, I make a point to get individual images of each person. Hello, LinkedIn—or any social media profile picture for that matter!
We are also making art! I want images that you can put on your wall. We obviously are going to get the looking at the camera smiling, but I always want to make something that you can feel proud to hang in your home.
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