Many couples who are planning their wedding quickly find the process a bit overwhelming. The To Do List gets longer and more complicated, and stress levels can start rising long before the big event. As time ticks closer you will likely start to find yourself getting busier and busier. Early in the engagement is the perfect time for an e-shoot. The excitement of the proposal is still fresh and that emotion will be evident in your photos.
Scott and Tori’s destination engagement session in Vail, CO.
Unless you are a model or a public figure, you probably aren’t accustom to having a professional photographer taking your photo. The e-session is a great opportunity to build confidence and get comfortable in front of the camera. Being followed around by a camera can be scary, and getting that anxiety out of the way in advance helps tremendously. As a couple, you will stop focusing on the camera and more on each other. Frazzled nerves will be calmed and your interactions will become more natural.
Your photographer will be spending many hours with you on your wedding day, and the engagement shoot is the best way for them to get to know you. They are involved in the most intimate moments of your day and the time spent with you during the shoot is an invaluable opportunity to give you direction and get familiar with your personalities. Investing this quality time together before the wedding day will ensure that your photographer is able to capture you at your best.
Jake and Beth in Canal Park with the Aerial Lift Bride in the background. Duluth, MN
Plan on having your hair and makeup done for the shoot as well. Getting comfortable with your stylist is very important. It will make you feel even more confident and that will show through in the final images. The photographer and stylist will work together to establish the perfect look for the big day and this will help you feel at ease with both individuals. Plus, your engagement photos will be all the more fantastic!
Nathan and Priya at the “I Like You” wall in Minneapolis.
The engagement session is a trial run. Not only is it great practice for you, it also allows your photographer to see how the two of you interact as a couple. They will learn more about your love story, your wedding plans, and how much direction you may need. An excellent wedding photographer will shoot a variety of photos during your engagement session; from serious and romantic to playful and artistic. Your honest feedback helps ensure that your wedding day photos accurately reflect your love story. On your wedding day you will probably be seeing your photographer more than any one else, and the e-shoot is a perfect ice breaker to help transform them from a stranger to a friend.
Scott and Christie at the family cabin in central WI.
Chat with them about your wedding plans and get tips about planning out the schedule. Your photographer has seen it all, and will have invaluable advice on how to organize the day and minimize stress. They should also be the first one you ask for vendor referrals. Having a cohesive group of vendors will make the big day so much easier and carefree. Your photographer will have suggestions for hair and makeup, floral, catering, DJ’s and even venues. Think of it as building a wedding team, and your photographer is the captain. Being able to sit back and trust your team will make the big day more relaxed and all the more special.
Click Here to connect with Bryan and schedule your engagement session.
Happy Planning!
-Bryan