What to Expect From Your Engagement Shoot

Booking an engagement shoot can feel like a big step, especially if it’s your first time in front of a professional camera. Most couples tell me they’re a little nervous or feel awkward at the start, but by the end, it feels more like a fun date than a photo session. The whole point is simple: slowing down, celebrating the two of you, and capturing photos that feel natural and true to your relationship.

Before the Shoot

We always start with a chat… think of it like grabbing a coffee with a new friend (in person or virtually). We’ll ask about the vibe you want your photos to have or what you’re drawn to. Maybe there are photos you’ve saved on Pinterest or Instagram that just feel right, or maybe you simply know you’d prefer something relaxed over anything too formal or posed. That gives us a sense of what you love, and from there we can suggest locations that fit — whether that’s a quiet field nearby, your favourite weekend walk, or a spot with an amazing sunset view.

We’ll also touch on practical things like your outfits - what makes you feel comfortable and confident. As well as how far you’re happy to travel, and when in the year might work best.

Most importantly, we’ll get a feel for you. Do you love to laugh and mess around together? Are you happiest curled up close? Knowing those little things helps us create a session that feels natural and easy, rather than like you’re “posing” for photos.

During the Shoot

This is where the magic happens. Engagement shoots aren’t about stiff smiles or standing still for the camera. They’re about creating moments that let your connection shine through.

Sometimes that means giving you a playful prompt, like whispering something ridiculous in each other’s ear, and waiting for the laughter. Other times, it’s stepping back and letting you simply walk, talk, and forget we’re even there.

If you’ve shared inspiration shots with us, we’ll recreate them in a way that feels natural, while also leaving room for spontaneous, in-between moments. Think of it as a mix: some guided direction, some free-flowing candid magic.

The length of the shoot depends on what you want — it could be a short, sweet session in one location or a longer adventure with outfit changes and different backdrops. Either way, we’ll pace it so you never feel rushed.

After the Shoot

When the session wraps up, you’ll probably be surprised at how quickly the nerves faded away. Couples often tell me it felt more like a fun date than a photo shoot.

From there, we’ll carefully go through all the images, handpicking and editing the ones that best tell your story. The end result? A gallery full of photos that feel like little time capsules of this season in your life… full of joy, love, and a little bit of magic.

Why It Matters

Engagement shoots aren’t just about photos for save-the-dates or wall frames (though you’ll love having those too). They’re about carving out space in the middle of wedding planning to slow down, laugh, and just be with each other.

They also give you something that your wedding day might not: complete freedom. Freedom to choose any location, at any time of year, in any outfit you like — without the pressure of a timeline or a schedule. Want to run barefoot along the beach at sunset? Let’s do it. Fancy a cozy shoot in your favourite café? Perfect. This is your chance to be yourselves, in whatever way feels most “you.”

And when your wedding day comes, you’ll already know what it feels like to be in front of our cameras — which means your photos will flow effortlessly. No stiff poses, no nerves, just a continuation of the connection we’ve already built.

If you’ve booked one of our wedding photography packages, your engagement shoot is often already included. It’s not just a bonus — it’s a really valuable part of the process. We’ll use it as a chance to get comfortable together, so by the big day, you feel completely at ease. Plus, you’ll already have a beautiful set of photos to use throughout your wedding journey — from invitations and websites to decor on the day itself.

Think of it as the first chapter of your wedding story, with the big celebration still to come.