You can’t turn around (or scroll through Facebook) without seeing some sort of creative engagement photo. Do you really need to add an engagement photo shoot to your list of things to do? Absolutely not! But is it a good idea? Definitely! An engagement photo often serves as the first official "couple" photo and has many uses. Check out our tips for an engagement photo shoot that captures your pre-wedding bliss! Also remember to print and download our free Wedding Planner Worksheets to prepare you for the big day.
Remember all that time you spent searching for a wedding photographer? Engagement photos are the perfect opportunity to test out your photographer and start building rapport, which will make your wedding photos even better. (Some photographers even include engagement photos in their packages, so be sure to ask!) It gives the photographer a chance to get to know you as a couple and observe how you interact with each other prior to the big day.
What are engagement photos used for? Your photos won't be collecting dust or forgotten about. Here are some ways you can put them to good use throughout your wedding planning process:
- Send one to your local newspaper along with your engagement announcement
- Post them on your wedding website
- Use them on save-the-dates
- Frame one (or a few) to use as wedding day décor
- Give them to parents and other family members as gifts
- Put them in a Sand Ceremony Shadow Box
If engagement photos just aren’t in your budget, try having an amateur photographer friend take them for you. In fact, you can even take your own using the self-timer on your camera or using a remote shutter release. Using a tripod is usually advised, and you can always tweak the photos a little using photo editing software. This Who Pays For Your Big Day article can give you some goods budgeting tips as well as this free printable budget planning worksheet.
Where do you take engagement photos? Depending on how formal or casual you want them, photographs can be taken:
- At home – perfect for a casual look and feel
- In a field or park – full of romantic vibes
- City streets – for the edgy and modern couple
- On the beach – a relaxed look with lots of natural beauty
- Any meaningful location – the site of your first date, where he proposed, your favorite restaurant, a local coffee shop you frequent
Take a mix of posed, playful, and candid shots. You want your engagement photos to be a snapshot of who you are as a couple, but stay open minded about photographer suggestions. It's also a good idea to organize a Pinterest board for photography session ideas you like. Of course, do feel free to add some personality and creativity with props like:
- Banners
- Signs (such as this Here Comes the Bride Rustic Sign or this Mini Chalkboard Sign)
- Sparklers
- Bubbles
- Confetti
- Balloons
- Pet – but don’t get a dog just for the cute photo factor! Include your furry friend if he’s already a big part of your life together.While engagement photos are not absolutely necessary, for many couples it may very well be your first professional photo as a couple, and it provides an opportunity for you and your photographer to get to know each other and better understand your styles and personalities before your wedding day.
- Letter Board - these are extremely popular and you can personalize it and put your names and the date of your big day.
Eight months until your big day - let's keep planning! You'll need to choose a ceremony officiant, send your save the dates. Last but not least, save some time to choose your wedding rings!
See more tips for every phase of your planning process in our Month-by-Month Wedding Planning Guide. Feeling crafty? We’ve included unique DIY wedding projects too!
Article written by: Heather Clark
