"Do I really need engagement photos?" It's a common question these days, and an important one at that! I have some pretty strong feelings about it, and my answer to that question is a resounding....YES. Even if you don't plan on using your engagement photos for invites or save the dates, there's more reasoning to taking engagement photos with your wedding photographer than just invites. So, here are 4 reasons why you need an engagement session.
Form a Friendship
Your photographer is going to be there with you for every moment of your big day. They will capture your special moments, advocate for you, and do their best to make your photography dreams come true. You don't want a stranger in that position. Taking the time to shoot engagement photos allows you to see their personality, create memories and for some people, even make a new friend out of their photographer. Just about every wedding that made my favorites list were ones that I took engagement pictures for as well. You really are hiring more than just a photographer, you're forming a friendship.
Check The Vibe
As cringe as it may sound, you may not vibe with your wedding 'tog. Having the chance to work with them and capture some photos gives you the opportunity to see if you actually like their business personality. I can't tell you how many people I've heard claim they didn't like their last photographer because their personality was cold or they were rude. You want to vibe with your photographer, not dread the thought of having them by your side all day. Be open and honest with the feedback you give your vendors. And if in the end you don't think it's a good fit, maybe it's time to find a different photographer. *Psssst this goes for you too, wedding 'togs. It's okay to cancel contracts and refund if it's a bad fit. Some red flags are best listened to.
Free. Photos.
As of 11.16.23 all wedding bookings will come with a free engagement session. I used to upsell and charge for the addition of engagement photos, but it just didn't sit right. As a photographer, I see the importance of getting to know my clients and taking the time to really form a bond ahead of the wedding date. It's because of this (Also cost of living, yikes.) that I've decided to add engagement sessions as a part of my regular wedding packages. I want to get to know you. I want to be more than a stranger taking pictures on your wedding day.
MORE Photos.
"Yeah, but we already took engagement photos." Congrats, you get more! Every photographer has different style than the next. My engagement photos won't look the same as the last. Now you get more photos, different poses, different editing style. And this way, you get to know your wedding photographer.
So you can see why it's important to meet your photographer and work together before your big day! I hope this helps you on your wedding journey! And if you're still looking for a wedding photographer for your 2025 wedding or 2026 wedding, you can inquire here.
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