Engagement photos are important because they capture the excitement of this special time in your relationship. Booking an engagement session helps you get comfortable in front of the camera, in turn making your wedding day photos feel more natural. They also allow you to build a connection with your photographer, ensuring they understand your style and personality. Before your engagement session be sure to discuss with your photographer your desire for candid or posed shots.

Documentary photos are candid. They show spontaneity and authenticity while capturing genuine emotions and interactions. Documentary photos create a relaxed and fun atmosphere, making you feel at ease. If documentary photos are your jam, your photographer will encourage you to be yourself. Enjoy each other and the moment.

Posed shots allow for creative and artistic compositions. These photos allow for couples to present a polished and refined look. Posed photos allow your photographer to experiment with different angles and poses to find what looks best.

As a photographer I love to include both the candid documentary and posed photos during engagement sessions. A diverse gallery tells more about you as a couple. The best way to achieve this balance is by creating a shot list that includes both styles. Here's an example of the shot list I used during this engagement session at The Estate at River Run:

Example:

• Hold hands and lead up and down the steps.

• Stand against the wall with the chandelier in the foreground/background

• Play with shadows

• Hold hands across a doorway and look at each other

• Dance in the ballroom in front of the window

• Hands on railing to focus on the rings

• Snuggle on the couch and share your favorite memory

• Capture the couple through the window embracing

• Play billiards

• Birds Eye views

• Looking out over wall towards the river

• Play the piano and enjoy a romantic lesson

• Walk holding hands looking at each other

• Gently hip check while swinging hands pulling each other back and forth

Be sure to communicate your preferences and ideas with your photographer in advance. Consider your personalities and book a photographer skilled in both styles. Engagement photos are the perfect keepsake you can use for save-the-dates, wedding websites, or just to cherish forever.