Is engagement photography worth the investment?
The Knubble Beach Engagement Session | Westport MA
Real talk - weddings today are not cheap. From the purchase of an outfit to get married in, to the flowers to the food, there are so many line items in your wedding budget, each raising the wedding's ultimate cost. It is perfectly normal to look for places where you can cut back on a few things. One way I've seen as a wedding photographer is removing an engagement session from your photography package. At times couples think cutting out engagement photos is a great way to cut costs. Still, I will say that an engagement session is a worthwhile experience for any couple.
I know I'm a photographer, so I'm a little biased; however, celebrating your engagement with a professional portrait session is definitely worth the investment. Allow me to elaborate:
Get to know your photographer
In the past, I've contracted with agencies that provide wedding photography services for couples. These agencies have a stable of photographers that they farm weddings out to. As a photographer, I always experience a little anxiety walking into these weddings because I've never met the couple before. I don't know them; I don't even know what they look like. I just have to go in and hope that we mesh. I'm a personable person, so even if I did not take your engagement photos, chances are that I will find a way to connect with you. But I've heard of some horror stories that highlight the importance of establishing a relationship with your photographer before your wedding. It is key to getting the photos you want from your big day. Not only will you feel more comfortable with someone you know and that you have interacted with behind the camera, but your photographer will have a better understanding of your relationship and what makes you both click together. This knowledge helps your photographer capture details at your wedding that a photographer who doesn't know you may miss.
2. Learn to be comfortable in front of the camera
Chances are that you're not a professional model who's in front of the camera all day long. Ergo, you're not used to having your photo taken. Most of us aren't! Ask around. Even photographers will tell you that they're not comfortable getting in front of the camera. This is why having an engagement session is so important: It gives you a chance to practice being the subject of a camera before your wedding. You don't want to feel this strange discomfort on your big day. Trust me, it's a foreign feeling, and you want to get used to it. Especially when it comes to romantic poses, P.D.A. (public displays of affection), or even candid shots. Many of the photographs you see with couples laughing and being themselves do not occur until well into the session because they have to take the time to relax. Think of your engagement session as a practice run for you and your partner to get comfortable with being photographed. That way, you'll feel more relaxed and look at ease in your wedding photos.
3. Reconnect and remember what brought you here
There's always a moment in every engagement session that I photograph where the couple gets a little sentimental about the moment they met and where they are now. I get my best shots during this moment. Your engagement session can be a fantastic opportunity to reflect on your journey as a couple. Remembering that first date, the first time you felt that there was something more, the first kiss...Engagement sessions can be a lovely walk down memory lane. Consider taking photos at a location with some significance to the two of you, like the place where you had your first date or even just somewhere you like to spend time together. The more meaning you can add to your engagement session, the more unique your photos will feel because they will reflect the love you share. Plus, choosing a location you're familiar with can help put you more at ease during your session.
