Even though it’s not always voiced, I know it can often be a thought of engaged couples- do I really need an engagement session? And my answer is always YES! I love engagement sessions for a handful of reasons. More often than not, couples have been together for quite some time and they are SO excited for the big day they can’t wait for it to come! And rightfully so, it’s more than likely the biggest day of your live to up to this point.

The engagement session is more than pretty pictures for your Save the Dates…. here are a handful of reasons why I LOVE them… and a few pointers as well….

• Even though it feels like such a hectic period, your engagement is really pretty quick in the big scheme of things. It marks the transition from being a couple, to being saying ‘I do.’ I love being able to capture this small piece of time.

• I always encourage couples to choose a location or activity, or bring props! to showcase who they are as a couple. It also helps the bride and groom to be feel more comfortable when they are somewhere they love, (and with someone they love!) doing something they love.

• Let’s face it, most couples have not spent a lot of time in front of a camera. And it may go without saying these days, but an engagement session really does get you comfortable in front of the camera. More importantly, we get to spend some time together! Building the relationship with your photographer really helps make the bridal session go smoothly. You’ll be able to slide right back into being comfortable in front of the camera.

• Location location location…. of course location matters and as mentioned earlier, I love when couples choose a location they love!! However… a few thoughts… Disneyland may sound like a great place to take photos, and how fun would that session be!? But… keep in mind it won’t be only you and your photographer taking photos at Disneyland. It will be thousands of others too. We live in Southern California where private locations don’t come all that easy, so when couples opt for a popular public location, we always do our best to find the sweet nooks and crannies so you don’t have Grandma Mary photobombing every photo.

• Sean and Shagha chose the Los Angeles Griffith Observatory for their engagement session. And not gonna lie… I had a mini panic attack when I walked up to scout the area before the shoot. People.Every.Where. But after taking a deep breath and walking the property, (and telling Sean and Shagha that yes, it’s going to be a bit awkward, but we’ll smile through it!) We found some sweet spots!!

And I do always mention… if you are the wine / cocktails/ beer type… having a little apertif can’t hurt calm the nerves either!! Especially if your backdrop is Disneyland… or the Griffith Observatory 😉

~Laura