7 reasons why you should have an Engagement Shoot

"Should we have an engagement shoot?"

This is my most frequently asked question by Brides and Grooms and my answer is always "YES!"

Engagement shoots are GREAT. Have a read and find out why I always recommend an engagement shoot before your big day!

1. We get to know each other...

As a wedding photographer, I'm probably the person you'll see the most of on your wedding day so it's important that we get to know each other ahead of the big day. On an engagement shoot I'll get to know you two as a couple and find out about your quirks and what makes the two of you unique but more importantly, you two get used to me as a photographer and will feel relaxed around me on your wedding day. 

2. It's a 'practice' run for your wedding photos...

I will give you guidance on poses for your wedding day so that photos don't take up too much time on your wedding day. If you choose to have your engagement shoot at your wedding venue it's a great time to explore the grounds together and find the best places to get the best photos on your wedding day!

The photos above were taken Study Royal, Ripon. The first in January for an engagement shoot and the second in April on the wedding day.

3. It can be casual and unobtrusive...

Yes, we will practice a few poses, but I will make you feel comfortable and at ease. There'll be lots of natural shots of the two of you talking, laughing and walking too! I try to book in engagement shoots early to mid-morning so that there aren't too many people about.

4. It's about having fun...

The thought of being in front of a camera scares lots of people and that's perfectly normal! But in my experience, even the most dubious of couples end up having fun on their engagement shoot with me.

5. It's a great excuse to get nice photos of the two of you...

It's the perfect excuse to wear your favourite outfit, go to your favourite spot and get a set of nice photos of just the two of you! If nothing else, it'll make the perfect Christmas present for mum whilst you're saving for a wedding!

6. Your photos make the perfect Signing Frame...

I offer Wedding Signing Frames for your wedding day. I provide a high quality photograph from your shoot and a framed mount so that your guests can write their congratulations around your photo! These are proving very popular at the moment and are a great alternative to the traditional guest book as it is something you can display in your house.

7. It's FREE...

I currently offer free engagement shoots with all three of my packages and there's nothing we love more in Yorkshire than a freebie!

I hope you've enjoyed reading and now have a better understanding of why having a pre-wedding photo shoot is a good idea!

Rachael