ARE YOU ENGAGED?

He's proposed...you accepted, and you've hired a wedding photographer.  However, many couples will not interact with their wedding photographer until the day of their wedding.  This could be because some couples aren't excited about having their photograph taken.  In my experience, I've come across a few reasons why some couples are not excited to have an Engagement Session, i.e., one or both don't feel comfortable in front of the camera; one or both may have not had a pleasant experience with a previous photographer, one or both may simply be self-conscious, or time may be a factor. 


Some couples feel it's unnecessary, since they've had friends or family take snapshots of them over time, or they've taken snapshots of one another during the relationship.  However, snapshots don't count when it comes to spending one of the most important days of your life with a professional photographer...so why not feel confident in their abilities?


A professional photographer is experienced, and poised, to capture the best images of you on your special day, and photography is an area of your wedding budget that should not be skimped on.  For this reason, I encourage my clients to have an Engagement Session to overcome any anxiety and nervousness they may have.  Additionally, I encourage this Session so the couple can become familiar with my photography style, and to put the couple at ease, and show them that having a professional session can be a fun experience.  Furthermore, as their photographer, I am no longer a "stranger", showing up on their wedding day, but rather someone with whom they've established a rapport, and the couple can then feel confident that I will capture the best images of their love story.

For the couple, the Engagement Session serves a multi purpose.  Besides receiving worthwhile camera practice, you will understand how your photographer shoots, and your photographer will learn more about your personalities, what makes you comfortable, and your likes/dislikes. In addition, your photographer gains valuable insight about preferences for your wedding day.  I always inform my clients that their faces are part of the canvas; therefore, any emotions will come through in the picture.  Because of this, the more comfortable you are, the better your photographs will be.

Once the Engagement Session is set, it's time to think about the location.  I encourage outdoor locations, since couples tend to feel less restricted, and their personalities can evolve naturally, moreso than in an enclosed indoor space.  I also suggest that the location be a venue that holds special meaning, which will also put the couple at ease, since it's familiar, thus evoking natural interactions.  Typical locations are:  where the proposal took place; the first date; favorite park, hiking trail, beach, etc.  Some couples ask for my suggestions, and I am happy to provide them with various locations where I've photographed previously, based on what the couple is looking for, such as landscape or city setting. 

When it comes to attire, I inform my clients that your photographs should be timeless and classy.  Therefore, it is not recommended that you wear bold prints or shirts with logos.  For outdoor locations, typically khaki, white, or monochromatic tones are best, and will not distract from the couple, or the beauty of the location.


After your Session is completed, what do you do with your photos?  There are multiple uses, such as Save The Dates; portrait for your home; gifts to family/friends for upcoming holidays, or birthdays; photo montage, and a large matted Signature Board, which can be displayed at the reception for your guests to sign, rather than the typical guest book. 


On your wedding day, you want to look your best, so shouldn't you feel your best about having your photographs taken?  An Engagement Session can be enlightening, liberating and fun!


Do you have a creative suggestion for an Engagement Session?  Please leave a comment and let me know!


Ciao, until next time...