Are engagement photos necessary before your wedding day? While they aren’t a must, I definitely recommend them.

As a wedding photographer, I’ve worked with many couples, and they’re always so grateful they did an engagement session.

An engagement session is a photo shoot for you and your partner that’s usually scheduled a few months before the wedding. The session helps you connect with your photographer before the wedding and get comfortable in front of the camera. It’s also a fun opportunity to take a pause from wedding planning and have fun together.

In this article, I’ll share why engagement photos are totally worth it. I’ll also cover what you can do with the photos, aside from swooning over them!

Why Engagement Photos Are Necessary

Not only are engagement sessions fun, but they’re also the perfect chance to prep for the wedding and enjoy a new experience with your love.

Get to Know Your Photographer

One of the biggest benefits of an engagement session is getting to know your wedding photographer. Building that connection is so important — and honestly, it’s so much fun!

Any nerves you have about being photographed start to melt away once you’ve connected with your photographer. You already know she’ll document every moment beautifully.

I love when couples feel like I’m their bestie hanging out with them on their wedding day, not just the person behind the camera. Connecting during your engagement session helps us build that rapport early, so it’s already there when your wedding day arrives.

Practice Being in Front of the Camera

Maybe you love being in front of the camera — but let’s be honest, some people don’t. That’s exactly why an engagement session is so helpful.

Getting comfortable posing with your partner is part of that. You’ll get a feel for how your photographer directs you both. You can also tell them exactly what you love or want to skip, so they already know your preferences when the wedding day comes.

An engagement session also lets you practice being photographed as a couple. You won’t have your wedding day itinerary rushing you along, so you have time to find what poses and moments feel natural to you.

Celebrate This Special Season

Your wedding day will bring gorgeous photos, but your engagement is a special season too. It deserves its own celebration.

For many couples, the engagement season lasts many months or even years. This time is often packed with wedding planning rather than quality time together. An engagement session gives you a perfect excuse to slow down and enjoy each other.

Plus, you’ll walk away with beautiful images that celebrate this exciting time in your life. You’ll never regret having the photos!

What To Do With Engagement Photos

Once you have your gallery, it’s time to have fun with your photos. Here are some of the best ways to use them:

• Save the dates – Give friends and family a sneak peek of your wedding style 
• Wedding website – Showcase your love and add personality to your site
• Day-of decor – Display prints at your guest book table and reception
• Wedding shower invitations – Share your favorite pictures and build anticipation for the wedding
• Social media posts – Share your engagement photos with friends and family online
• Home decor – Frame your favorite prints as a sweet reminder of this season

Are engagement photos necessary? FAQs

Are engagement photos important?

Yes, engagement photos are definitely important. They help you connect with your photographer and get comfortable posing in front of the camera. This makes for an easier, more relaxed experience on your wedding day.

What are engagement photos used for?

Most couples use their engagement photos for save-the-dates, wedding websites, day-of décor, and social media posts. But honestly, you can use them however you’d like. They’re the perfect way to celebrate and showcase your love.

When should I take engagement photos? 

Plan your session at least two to three months before your wedding. If you want to use the photos for save-the-dates, you might consider booking earlier. A session eight to ten months before the wedding is often ideal so that the photos are ready for anything you might use them for.

How long do engagement photos take?

Engagement sessions typically take an hour for one location. If there’s an outfit change, we’ll change outfits half way through the session for variety. 

What should we wear for engagement photos?

Choose two outfits, one dressy and one more casual, for your engagement photos. Stick to a style that feels authentically you, and opt for coordinating colors instead of perfect matches. Lastly, be sure to dress for the season and location of your shoot.

Let’s Plan Your Engagement Photos

Engagement photos aren’t required, but they’re the perfect opportunity to celebrate this special chapter with your love. They also help you connect with your photographer and get comfortable in front of the camera before your wedding day. 

Every wedding collection I offer includes an engagement shoot, and we always have so much fun during the session.

Ready to start planning your wedding photography in Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Northern Virginia, Richmond, or the DC area? I’d love to help!