Should You Have an Engagement Shoot Before Your Wedding? An Honest Photographer’s Opinion
Once you’ve booked your wedding photographer, there’s a good chance the subject of an engagement shoot will come up.
Some photographers include them in their packages.
Others offer them as an optional extra.
And if you’ve never had professional photographs taken before, you’re probably wondering…
“Do we actually need one?”
The honest answer?
Not always.
And that’s probably not what you expected a photographer to say.
After photographing weddings across Nottinghamshire, Lincolnshire and Yorkshire, I’ve learnt that engagement shoots can be incredibly valuable—but only if they’re right for you.
What Is an Engagement Shoot?
An engagement shoot is simply a relaxed photo session before your wedding.
There’s no timetable.
No guests.
No pressure.
Just the two of you spending an hour or so together while your photographer captures some natural photographs.
Some couples use the photographs for save-the-dates or wedding websites.
Others simply enjoy having a set of photographs together before the wedding.
But for me, the biggest benefit isn’t actually the photographs.
It’s the experience.
Who I Think They’re Brilliant For
If you already feel nervous about being photographed, an engagement shoot can make a huge difference.
Not because you’ll suddenly learn how to pose.
But because you’ll realise you don’t need to.
One of the biggest changes I notice isn’t in the photographs.
It’s in people’s confidence.
Couples often arrive saying things like:
“We’re really awkward in front of the camera.”
An hour later they’re laughing, chatting and completely forgetting the camera is even there.
That’s the real value.
They’re Also Great If…
An engagement shoot can be a really good idea if:
- you’ve never had professional photographs together
- you’re naturally quite shy
- you’re worried about feeling awkward
- you’d like to get to know your photographer before the wedding
- you want to build a little confidence before the big day
Think of it less as a photoshoot…
…and more as spending an hour together while getting comfortable with how your photographer works.
Who Probably Doesn’t Need One
Here’s where my opinion might be slightly different to some photographers.
I don’t think every couple needs an engagement shoot.
If you’re already relaxed in front of the camera…
If you’ve had professional photographs before…
Or if you’d simply rather spend that money somewhere else…
That’s absolutely fine.
A good photographer should still be able to help you feel comfortable on your wedding day itself.
The best wedding photographs come from trust, conversation and creating an environment where you can simply enjoy yourselves.
An engagement shoot is one way of building that trust.
It’s not the only way.
Will It Help on the Wedding Day?
Yes…
But perhaps not in the way most people imagine.
You won’t suddenly know exactly where to stand.
Or what to do with your hands.
Instead, you’ll stop worrying about those things altogether.
You’ll already know how your photographer works.
You’ll know how little—or how much—direction they give.
You’ll know that being yourselves is enough.
That confidence naturally carries into your wedding day.
If you’d like to understand more about how I photograph weddings, you can find out more on my Documentary Wedding Photographer page.
What If We Decide Not to Have One?
That’s completely okay.
Many of my couples don’t.
One thing I always say is that an engagement shoot should never feel like something you have to book.
On every wedding day, I take time to get to know people naturally.
By keeping things relaxed and giving gentle guidance when it’s needed, couples quickly stop thinking about the camera and start enjoying themselves.
That’s exactly when the best photographs happen.
My Honest Opinion
If you’re nervous about being photographed…
Book one.
If you’re excited about the idea…
Book one.
If you’d simply enjoy spending an evening together while having some relaxed photographs taken…
Book one.
But don’t book an engagement shoot because you think it’s expected.
Or because someone told you you’ll be “better” on your wedding day.
Book one because it feels right for you.
Final Thoughts
Like so many parts of wedding planning, there’s no right or wrong answer.
Some couples absolutely love having an engagement shoot.
Others skip it completely and still have an amazing experience on their wedding day.
The important thing isn’t whether you have an engagement shoot.
It’s finding a photographer whose approach makes you feel comfortable from the very beginning.
If you’re still choosing your photographer, you might also find my blog:
If you’re planning your wedding in Nottinghamshire, Lincolnshire or Yorkshire and you’re looking for natural, documentary wedding photography, I’d love to hear about your plans.
FAQs
Are engagement shoots worth it?
For many couples, yes—especially if you’re nervous about being photographed or want to get to know your photographer before the wedding.
Do I need an engagement shoot before my wedding?
No. Plenty of couples choose not to have one and still enjoy a relaxed wedding day with beautiful photographs.
What should we wear for an engagement shoot?
Choose clothes that feel comfortable and reflect your personality. Neutral tones and coordinating outfits often photograph well, but the most important thing is wearing something that feels like you.
How long does an engagement shoot usually take?
Most engagement shoots last around an hour, giving plenty of time to relax without feeling like you’re spending the whole day in front of the camera.
