If you are thinking about whether or not you should do an engagement session, think no longer. An engagement session with your wedding day photographer is an absolute must and here is why:
1. Get to know your photographer.
You're going to be spending a lot of time with your photographer on your wedding day. Like a lot of time. You'll be spending more time with him/her than you spend with your (new) spouse since they'll be there from morning through the evening. So you better get along well! It's like a dress rehearsal for the big day and a great way to get to know each other to make sure you are a great fit. And yes, I've seen couples not mesh well with their photographer during the engagement session, so have moved on to book someone else.
2. Capturing YOU.
Without knowing who you are as a couple, your photographer cannot capture the real you, your love story. During your engagement session, your photographer will "get to know you. And it's your time to get to know your photographer and their style of photography and communication" (Bolt Photography) so you know exactly what it's going to be like on the wedding day. Let those personalities shine so your photographer knows who you are and what you stand for. And if you do, your photos will show that.
3. Get comfortable in front of the camera.
I've been in front of the camera A LOT and I still don't like being in front of the camera. And to be honest, I'm super awkward when it comes to photoshoots. But surely, I am far more comfortable now than I was at my engagement session. "The engagement session is a great way to "practice" some of the same poses you'll do on your wedding day and will make you feel much more comfortable in front of the camera!" (From Britt's Eye View Photography) Real, raw photos make the best photos and if you are nervous, it willl definitely show through. Practice makes perfect!
4. Because who can't use some more photos?
You can use your engagement photos for your guest book, your save the dates, your wedding invitations, home decor for your new home together, next week's #tbt or #mcm or just for a much-needed social media profile pic update. No matter where or when you use them, these photos will surely get plenty of use! When was the last time you and your love had professional photos taken together? Probably never! And let's be real, who doesn't love showing off their handsome or gorgeous future spouse for the world to see?
Your wedding day isn't the time for a trial run or your dress rehearsal. The engagement session is. Make sure you feel comfortable in front of the camera and comfortable with your photographer. If you don't mesh well, move on. You'll want to figure this out beforehand rather than regretting the decision when it's far too late.
