I had the absolute pleasure of photographing Kit & Jack recently after they won an engagement shoot with me — and what a brilliant time we had! 🎉 From laughter-filled moments to those quiet, romantic glances, their session perfectly captured what makes an engagement shoot such a joyful experience.
But I often get asked two questions by newly engaged couples: “What is an engagement shoot?” and “How soon should I have an engagement shoot?” So, let’s dive in! I’ll explain what these shoots are all about, why they’re such a valuable (and fun!) part of your wedding journey, and how Kit & Jack’s session showed exactly why every couple should have one.
What Is an Engagement Shoot?
An engagement shoot (also known as a pre-wedding shoot) is a relaxed photo session that takes place before your wedding day. It’s all about celebrating your engagement, getting comfortable in front of the camera, and capturing some natural, joyful photos of you as a couple — without the pressure or schedule of a wedding day.
Think of it as a little date with your photographer tagging along — no big audience, no formal posing, just genuine connection and laughter. Whether it’s a stroll through your favourite countryside spot, coffee in your local town, or a golden-hour adventure somewhere meaningful, engagement shoots are all about documenting you being you.
For Kit & Jack, the session was full of laughter, relaxed moments, and natural smiles. They came away not only with a beautiful gallery of photos but also a boost of confidence for their big day — which is exactly what an engagement shoot is designed to do.
Why an Engagement Shoot Is So Worth It
You might be thinking, “We’ll have hundreds of photos on the wedding day — do we really need an engagement shoot?” Absolutely! Engagement shoots are one of the best investments you can make in your wedding photography experience. Here’s why:
1. You’ll Feel Totally at Ease on the Wedding Day
One of the biggest benefits is how relaxed it makes you feel in front of the camera. Almost everyone says they feel a bit awkward at first, but within a few minutes, the nerves disappear. By the time your wedding arrives, you’ll already know how your photographer works — so it all feels easy and natural.
2. You’ll Get Gorgeous Photos Without the Wedding Formalities
An engagement shoot gives you the chance to capture some casual, romantic photos of you both — the kind you’ll actually want to print, frame, and keep forever. No timelines, no pressure, just lovely, authentic moments together.
3. It’s a Brilliant Way to Celebrate Your Engagement
You’re only engaged once, and it’s such a special time. Why not celebrate it properly? Whether you’ve been engaged for a week or a year, a shoot is a wonderful excuse to slow down, connect, and create lasting memories together.
4. It Helps Build a Great Relationship with Your Photographer
Your photographer will be by your side throughout your wedding day, so it helps to feel comfortable with them! Engagement shoots are a great “test run” — you get to know their style and personality, and they get to learn how you naturally interact. That connection always shows in your final wedding photos.
How Soon Should I Have an Engagement Shoot?
If you’re wondering, “How soon should I have an engagement shoot?” the answer really depends on your plans and personality — but here are some helpful pointers:
- Six to twelve months before your wedding is ideal. It gives you time to use the photos for save-the-dates, wedding websites, or even your invitations.
- Spring and autumn are especially popular for engagement shoots in the UK — think soft golden light, blooming flowers, or rich autumn colours.
- If you’re a little camera-shy, booking your shoot sooner rather than later can help you get comfortable well ahead of the wedding day.
For Kit & Jack, their session took place a few months after they got engaged — the perfect time to soak up that newly engaged excitement and capture it forever.
Engagement Shoots Are Fun (Promise!)
Let’s be honest — most people don’t spend much time being photographed, so the thought of a photoshoot can feel a little nerve-wracking. But an engagement shoot is completely different. It’s relaxed, full of laughter, and completely centred around you.
There’s usually a lot of giggling, a few spontaneous moments, and a handful of cheeky glances that make the best photos. I’ll guide you along the way but never make you pose unnaturally — the goal is for you to feel comfortable, confident, and completely yourselves.
Just like Kit & Jack, most couples finish their shoot saying, “That was actually so much fun!” — and honestly, that’s the best feedback I could ever hope for.
Final Thoughts
So, what is an engagement shoot? It’s your chance to celebrate your love story before the wedding — relaxed, fun, and full of authentic connection. And how soon should you have an engagement shoot? Ideally six to twelve months before your big day, but truly, any time that feels right for you.
Kit & Jack’s shoot was a perfect reminder of why I love these sessions so much — real emotions, real laughter, and memories that will last long after the wedding day.
If you’re newly engaged and thinking about booking your own session, click here to get in touch — let’s create something beautifully you! 💕
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