WHAT IS AN ENGAGEMENT SHOOT?
"The engagement shoot really helped put us at ease about our wedding photos! We thought we would be quite nervous in front of the camera, but now that we've had a practice run and know how relaxed you keep things, we're not worried at all. On top of that, it was a really fun afternoon and we now have some really great photos as a couple to show for it!" John & Jas, May 2015
What is an engagement shoot?
other names: couple shoot / e-shoot / pre-wedding shoot
All of the above basically mean the same thing - having some photos taken with your photographer at any time ahead of the wedding day. I call my shoots 'Snaps & Chats' as engagement shoot sounds SO cringey... plus it does exactly what it says on the tin. You can read more about them here.
So why would you have an engagement shoot?
Although some people think they are totally unnecessary there's a whole host of reasons why they're a great, fun idea. One of the main reasons is about making you as comfortable as possible and feeling relaxed in front of the camera. Think of the pre-wedding shoot as a bit of a trial run that squashes any wedding photography nerves you may have.
Attingham Park Engagement Shoot in Shrewsbury
It also means that I get to see how you interact as a couple. The photos on my site are natural, unforced and un-staged images of people in love - and one of the ways I'm able to photograph that is by putting you at ease and letting you act genuinely and spontaneously - without being affected too much by my direction. That said I do give some pointers about great places to stand and starting positions to be in, to help you along the way!
On the other side of this, you get to know me as well. It's a pretty big commitment booking a photographer for your wedding and you can see how I act, how I interact with you, and what to expect in terms of direction and ideas. The more time we spend together the more relaxed you'll feel, meaning that when the big day rolls round it really is more like having a friend in the room than a professional photographer. Feeling confident about your photos gives you one less thing to worry about on the day and the happier you are, the lovelier your photos will be!
It's also really nice for the two of you to take time out of the stressful bits of planning a wedding (errr budgeting and table plans?!) to just spend some quality time. Our shoot will be a few hours which gives you a great excuse for a lunch out before or a few drinks after.
Engagement Shoot FAQ
Where should we have it?
I do the shoots around the Shropshire area and there is SO many beautiful places to shoot! I'm more than happy to do something simple like go for a walk or do the shoot at your home, or something more adventurous! Picking somewhere that means something to you can always be a good start too - where you went on your first date, where you got engaged, favourite childhood places...
What time should we have it?
Totally up to you, the sessions usually last about 1-1.5 hours
What do we do if it rains?
If it’s torrential and we’d planned an outdoor shoot, re-scheduling is always an option. However usually there are ways round it by changing the time of day, finding an indoor spot nearby or just braving the elements.
What should we wear?
This is totally up to you, but don’t feel the need to dress up! The point of the shoot is to make you feel comfortable and relaxed around me so don’t don a suit or dress if that’s not your usual style.
What if we’re awkward in front of the camera?
It’s my job to make sure you’re not by the end of the shoot, so even if you start off with being a bit lens shy I guarantee you will feel better by the end of it. I have a few little tips and tricks up my sleeve to help you relax and lose focus of the camera too…
What should we do with the photos after?
Whatever you like - Save the dates, invites, a guest book, or just some shots to show your friends and family. Wedding dresses and suits are all fancy and great, but it's also nice to have photographs of you looking day-to day normal. You'll get the High-Res files on a downloadable link within 2 weeks of the shoot.
Can we bring our dog?
I get asked this a lot, and yes! If you're feeling super awkward it’s a great way to get you to relax and feel comfortable. (see below!)
"Just wanted to say a huge thank you for today, you made us both feel really at ease and we're so glad that you 'get us' and what we want from our wedding day! We had a great afternoon and really enjoyed getting to know you!" Hannah & Arron, June 2015 (pictured below rocking their engagement shoot in Bath on their bikes!)
Why not take a look at my other blog posts!
2 - How to choose a wedding photographer
3 - Why should you hire a professional photographer?
4 - How to have a budget wedding
5 - Getting the most out of your wedding photography
6 - What is an unplugged wedding?
7 - How to plan the best wedding day timeline
8 - How to beat the wedding stress
9 - What's an engagement shoot?
10 - What's a second shooter & why should we have one?
12 - What can you do with your wedding photos?