Engagement shoots or pre-wedding shoots have been around for quite some time now and seem to be a feature of wedding photography that is here to stay. They are quite hard to fit in to an already busy schedule for both you and me but over the last few years I have realised their real strength. Some couples are mainly looking for a picture for a signing board or simply a set of great portrait images to celebrate their engagement but if you see your engagement shoot as an experiment rather than a finished product you have made a start in understanding why they can be so important. Pre wedding shoots are where I push myself in a no risk environment, try things out for the sake of it, stop and think ‘that’s not working as well as it could’ – it’s photo playtime! For my couples the same applies. I tend to tell you what is looking fantastic and what we could do better (which usually ends up in some hilarious moments) but most of all this is a learning exercise for both of us. Pre wedding shoots are absolutely where I do my learning just as much as you. When it comes to the wedding day and beyond you know what to expect, you know what looks good and you can relax and enjoy the party!
