Engagement photoshoot

Engagement photoshoots have been a topic of discussion for many years. Wedding planners often recommend them, but couples don’t always embrace the idea. The most common reasons are concerns about being photographed or a lack of time.

What is an engagement photoshoot about?

An engagement photoshoot is meant to capture you as a couple and your shared journey through life. The biggest difference compared to a wedding day photoshoot is that the latter documents a specific moment full of emotions and events, whereas the engagement shoot captures your life before the wedding.

What do you enjoy doing together? It could be something grand like traveling, or something small like walking the dog. Simply choose a date, arrange a photographer, and embark on this adventure.

"We're not good at posing…"

If you feel like you're not photogenic or lack experience with posing, there's no need to worry. An engagement photoshoot helps you prepare for your wedding day. You'll get used to the photographer's presence and their instructions, making you less nervous about how to stand or where to look during the wedding. As a result, the wedding photoshoot will go more smoothly and feel more natural.

Another benefit is that couple photos are always useful. Many couples don’t have enough photos together, and this photoshoot is a great opportunity to get some. These memories will last a lifetime.

When to plan the photoshoot?

You can schedule the photoshoot at any time before the wedding, but ideally, about two months in advance. At this point, you might start feeling some wedding stress, and this activity can help you relax. It’s a good idea to arrange for the photographer who will be shooting your wedding to accompany you during this session. If that’s not possible, consider another professional or even a friend with basic photography skills.

However, your wedding photographer is the best choice. It gives you a chance to get familiar with their working style, and they will get to know you better as a couple, ensuring a smoother process on the big day.

What to wear?

Leave your wedding dress for the big day itself. For the engagement shoot, agree on a theme and dress accordingly. The style can be casual or formal, and you can coordinate outfits with your partner.

One couple, for example, decided to recreate significant events from their relationship—wearing the same outfits they had on their first date, prom attire, and other memorable outfits. The result was a series of beautiful and personal photos full of memories.

What if there's no time? Consider the "first look"

If you like the idea of an engagement photoshoot but couldn’t find the time for it, you might want to consider the "first look" on your wedding day. This is the moment when the bride and groom see each other for the first time before the ceremony, often when the guests are just arriving. This special moment is captured on camera, followed by the wedding photoshoot.

The advantage of this is that you will look your best in the photos, having just finished your makeup and gotten dressed in your wedding attire.

The "first look" has become popular even in the Czech Republic, particularly because the couple’s photos are taken before the ceremony, eliminating concerns about smeared makeup, sweat, or dirty wedding clothes. It can also help you relax and get ready for the ceremony.

This tradition is sometimes seen as controversial, as it breaks the custom of the bride and groom seeing each other for the first time at the altar. However, if you decide to go for the "first look," you will get stunning photos and a moment to prepare for the wedding day together.