What are engagement pictures?

The idea behind engagement pictures is to document that special time of preparation leading up to your wedding. And a lot of photographers now take engagement photos as part of their wedding photography package.

Professional photos also make a unique and personal engagement gift for your fiancé.

Here's how it all works...

• The photo shoot takes place around three months before your wedding.
• It may happen in your photographer's studio, or more commonly at the moment, out on location.
• You may meet for a drink somewhere first, then spend about 45 minutes to an hour taking photos.
• Later on in the day you may return to the photographer's premises to view the photos, or you might go home and view them on an online gallery.
• There will probably be some kind of finished product included in your photography package. i.e. a 10"x8" print.
• You should be able to purchase additional products if you want to.

Three Benefits of Engagement Photos

1. To get over any inhibitions of being photographed - so you'll have more confidence on your wedding day and the photos will be more natural.


2. To practise some poses - so the posed photos on your wedding day won't take as long and you'll have more time with your guests.


3. To establish a good rapport with your photographer - because you're going to spend a lot of time with him on the day!

Plus, you should get a set of good photos!

That's how you benefit from engagement photography. But remember that it was created by photographers as an extra sales opportunity. Regardless of that, I think engagement photos are generally a good idea.

What You Could Do With Your Engagement Pictures

• Purchase an engagement album to compliment your wedding album
• Framed prints as gifts for your parents
• Framed prints for yourself
• Use your favourite image for your wedding invitations

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