Why You Need an Engagement Session Before Your Wedding

Planning your wedding is one of the most exciting adventures of your life, but it’s also packed with decisions. One decision you may not have considered yet? Booking an engagement photography session.

This isn’t just another checkbox on your wedding to-do list—it’s an incredible opportunity to connect with your photographer, capture authentic moments, and set the stage for stunning wedding day photos.

If you’ve been on the fence about scheduling an engagement session, read on. We’re breaking down four compelling reasons why this pre-wedding experience is a must-have.

Get Comfortable in Front of the Camera

For many couples, posing in front of a camera is not second nature. The idea of being “on display” can feel, well, awkward. And that’s totally normal—after all, you’re likely not used to being photographed professionally.

An engagement session is like a warm-up. It gives you and your partner a chance to ease into being photographed without the pressure of the big day. During this session, you’ll have time to figure out how to relax and connect naturally in front of the lens.

More importantly, your photographer will guide you along the way. Whether it’s helping you find flattering angles or coaching you into natural, candid moments, they’re there to make you look and feel like your best selves. By the end of the session, you’ll feel like camera pros—and ready to shine on your wedding day.

Pro Tip

Wear outfits that feel like “you.” Comfortable, authentic clothing will help you feel confident and at ease. Bookmark the outfits you love most so you already have ideas for future couple shoots!

Build a Relationship with Your Photographer

Your photographer will be by your side during some of the most intimate moments on your wedding day—from your vows to your first look and everything in between. That’s why building a strong relationship with them is essential.

An engagement session is the perfect icebreaker. It allows you and your photographer to connect on a personal level, fostering trust and comfort on both sides of the camera. You’ll have the chance to share what you love, what makes you laugh, or even what brings out a nervous giggle.

This connection goes both ways. Your photographer will also get an opportunity to get to know you as a couple. They’ll discover your personality, dynamics, and vision for your big day—the little details that turn great photos into breathtaking ones.

When your wedding day arrives, you’ll feel more like friends than clients. The result? Stress-free, natural photos that reflect your true love story.

Pro Tip

Use your engagement session to talk to your photographer about your wedding photography goals. Feeling extra creative? Share your Pinterest board or mood inspirations for their take!

Practice Posing

Spoiler alert: You don’t need to be a professional model to look amazing in your wedding photos. One of the best things about an engagement session is that it acts as a rehearsal for posing with your fiancé.

Figuring out the right poses doesn’t just happen by chance—it’s about discovering what works for you as a couple. Do you love playful, laughter-filled shots? Or are you more into romantic, heartfelt moments? During an engagement session, you’ll explore a variety of styles to see what makes you feel the most natural and confident.

Posing practice is also about learning to work with your photographer. Their subtle guidance will help unlock poses and expressions you weren’t even aware of. You might just surprise yourselves with how photogenic you truly are!

Pro Tip

Bring props or incorporate special items that make your photos feel uniquely yours. Whether it’s your favorite coffee mugs or a bouquet of flowers, these small details add personality to your shots.

Get to Know Your Photographer’s Style

Every photographer has a specific style and approach, and your engagement session is the perfect way to experience it firsthand. This session gives you insight into how they work—from their shooting techniques to how they capture light and emotion.

For example:

• Do they go for candid, documentary-style shots?
• Or do they create timeless, posed portraits?
• Perhaps a mix of both?

Understanding your photographer’s methods will not only give you peace of mind leading up to your wedding day, but it will also help ensure your vision aligns with theirs. If there’s anything you’d like adjusted—from specific angles to editing preferences—it’s much easier to discuss this before the wedding rush begins.

When done right, an engagement session sets the stage for seamless collaboration. Your photographer will arrive at your wedding ready to shoot in a way that reflects your personal story, leaving you with a gallery of photos you’ll treasure forever.

Pro Tip

If you fall in love with the images from your engagement session, consider using them for invites, save-the-dates, and even decor at your reception.

Start Your Wedding Journey with Confidence

From getting comfortable in front of the camera to building a relationship with your photographer, an engagement session sets you up for success on your wedding day. It’s more than just a photoshoot—it’s an experience that adds fun, confidence, and a personal touch to your pre-wedding journey.

Are you ready to book your engagement session? Whether you’re excited to try playful poses or simply want stunning photos to document this special time, I’m here to help.

Schedule Your Engagement Session Today

Don’t just plan a wedding—celebrate the moments leading up to it, too.