The Importance of an Engagement Shoot

Many brides ask us why we insist on an engagement shoot for all our wedding couples.  Think of the engagement shoot as an audition for the photographer and a dress rehearsal for you.  This time allows us to get to know each other.  As the photographer I get to see what makes you comfortable in front of the camera, what makes you laugh, what relaxes you.  As the subject you get to know the photographers work style and personality.  On your wedding day you will spend more time with your photographer then any other vendor.  My goal is always to make you so comfortable with me that by your wedding day I am a trusted friend.   This makes a HUGE difference in the final photos.   If you are relaxed and comfortable your photos will be more natural.

Going through your engagement photos with your photographer is another really important step in getting the best possible photos on your wedding day.  Viewing and discussing your engagement pictures allows you to tell the photographer what you like and don't like about your photos.  Perhaps you don't like profile shots because it highlights the shape of your nose, or you prefer close up head & shoulder shots over full length shots.  Whatever your personal preference, your photographer will have a better understanding when you can go through a photo session together.

Finally, one of the best reasons for doing an engagement shoot is the opportunity to do something fun and relaxed for just the two of you in the busy months leading up to your wedding.   I always recommend to my clients that they choose a location or activity that reflects them as a couple.  I've done photo shoots at the beach, strolling the streets of downtown, visiting wineries, riding a merry go round, bike riding, and just hanging out in a park.   Make your engagement shoot fun and meaningful.   One of the best shoots we've done recently was for a couple who met at Western University in London.  They now live in Toronto and haven't been back to campus in a few years.   We took a Sunday afternoon and met them in London.  We wandered around the campus as they told us stories of where they met, where they hung out, what they did together when they were first dating.  The afternoon was filled with laughter, a few tears, and absolutely wonderful photos that will bring back memories of those early times for years to come.