Wedding season is right around the corner! If you or someone you know is deep in the wedding planning process, I’m sure the idea of having engagement photos has come up. First, let us clarify that an engagement session is a casual photo session with your fiancé that highlights you as a couple. Some couples may feel it is a waste of time and money but we strongly feel this is a valuable opportunity. Apart from documenting this amazing time in your lives, there are several important reasons to get engagement photos, especially if you are looking for a professional wedding photographer.

First of all, this is a great opportunity to test out your wedding photographer. Engagement sessions usually last more than an hour. So, it allows you time to develop a relationship with that photographer. It also gives you a chance to reaffirm whether the photographer you picked for your wedding is the right one for you. In case you clash with the photographer, get engagement photos done as early as possible. Second, as wedding photographers, it helps us give you better wedding photos. Once we get to know your personalities, we can work on getting you unique wedding photos that mean more to you. You will learn our style of shooting before your wedding day and you will be more comfortable being photographed on your special day.

Finally, engagement photos can be used in so many ways while planning your wedding. They are great for personalized save the dates or wedding invitations. You can make a fun guestbook using the photos. We’ve also seen them creatively used in centerpieces, reception slideshows, and wedding websites. Finally, some parents use a photo when making an announcement in the hometown newspaper.

Convinced yet? Well, before we go, here are some engagement photo tips…

Get your photos done as soon as you set the wedding date. Normally you need atleast 8 to 12 months to plan a wedding. This gives you time to test out your wedding photographer and use the photos in your wedding planning. It also gives you time to just enjoy the photos during this moment in your life. Find out from your photographer exactly what products they offer. For instance, if you are wanting a custom photo guestbook, save-the-dates or if you will need the files to make a reception slideshow.

Engagement photos should be unique and special to you as a couple. Get your photos done in a place that has meaning to you or around an activity that you love to do. Also be conscious of the season. As natural light photographers, we encourage outdoor photos and fall photos look very different from spring photos. Engagement photos should be fun, creative, and unique to you. Have fun wedding planning!

A huge Thank You to Stillwater’s Community Connection for the feature earlier this month and The O’Colly {Page 2B} for the reference today! Happy Hump Day!