Our Guide To Great Engagement Photos, Part 1

Why Take Engagement Photos?

Every one says you have to take engagement photos, and we feel strongly that you should. The biggest reason I can give you is that this is a sort of dress rehearsal for working with your photographer. It makes fantastic sense to take as much practice as you can get with the person/people that are going to photography you on one of the most important days of your life. You want to know how they work, and if their style fits with how you and your partner want to be photographed. And you also want to know if they are a good fit for you. Because nothing sucks like finding out you may have made a poor choice on your wedding day. You just want to see if they can make you feel comfortable.

This is a perfect chance to see what their vision nd experience really brings to the table. Plus you get some great pictures to include in you save the date that are specific to the intent of your union so bonus points!

Finding the Right Photographer

The fact of the matter is that not every picture is for every couple. I mean sure you can mimic the pictures you see in the world already but I think for what you pay a wedding photographer you should end up with pictures that communicate the unique "youness: of union. Are you fun and energetic, do you have a wry sense of humor, do you have really interesting hobbies and gifts? Use this session to communicate that. No matter if you are planning a straight laced traditional wedding or going all in on a Star Trek theme get some pictures in the mix that communicate what you are about.

Finding the Right Photographer

The fact of the matter is that not every picture is for every couple. I mean sure you can mimic the pictures you see in the world already but I think for what you pay a wedding photographer you should end up with pictures that communicate the unique "youness: of your union. Are you fun and energetic, do you have a wry sense of humor, do you have really interesting hobbies and gifts? Use this session to communicate that. No matter if you are planning a straight laced traditional wedding or going all in on a Star Trek theme get some pictures in the mix that communicate what you are about.

When you first meet with photographers there are some simple questions you can ask that get right to the root of what they can do for you. You can ask these questions while you view their portfolio:

• How did you choose these locations?

• What do these say specifically about the couple or their union?

• Why did you take this picture?

• How many different locations do you allow us to shoot at and how open are you for some brainstorming before we go out and start shooting?

• How do you normally find your clients? Are they referred? 

Do your initial conversation with them as a conversation, email doesn't give you as good a feel for who this person is, what they are about and what quirks they might have that can drive you bonkers. After all you'll be with this guy or girl for the entirety of your wedding day and you want to pick someone who feels like they belong at your special day.

Getting Great Shots

So after you find the lucky person to capture your moment how do you decide what to do during your engagement session? Well first look at their portfolio. See what they know how to do. And cross that with shots of other couples that may look good for you. Things you want to do or try are great. Nothing excites a photographer that loves their work more than you requesting a shot they don't have.