If you just got engaged, first of all – Congratulations!! This is an exciting season of life for you both and is worth celebrating in every possible way! As a wedding photographer, in my opinion, one of the best decisions you can make before your big day is scheduling an engagement photo session. Many couples wonder why you should do an engagement session when there are already so many other things to plan. The truth is that it is THE best way to feel confident, relaxed, and completely yourselves in front of the camera long before your wedding day arrives.
As a wedding photographer based in the Charlotte area who regularly photographs engagement sessions throughout NC and SC (and even travels for any destination engagement session!) I have seen firsthand what an incredible impact this experience has on my couples. It is a great opportunity to create beautiful photos while also giving you a great chance to learn what it feels like to be guided by a professional photographer. It is a great way to spend quality time together during such a special time and a perfect excuse to go out for a date night afterwards!
Feeling Confident in Front of the Camera
Nearly every couple tells me they feel awkward in front of the camera at first. If this sounds like you, an engagement shoot will be the perfect way to get comfortable before the big day. When you learn how to relax in front of a camera during your engagement photo session, it makes such a difference when your wedding day arrives. You will already know what to expect, how I guide you, and the poses or moments that feel most natural for you. This means one less thing to worry about when the wedding day timeline gets full and the emotions start to build.
By the end of the session, couples always tell me that what they feared would feel stiff ended up being a great time. You will laugh, move, explore, and enjoy the moment. Many couples even tell me it feels like a fun version of their first date all over again.
Engagement Photos That Reflect Your Love Story
Another reason why you should do an engagement session is the chance to create engagement photos that truly feel like you. You get professional photos that highlight your relationship in a personal way that is hard to capture in the rush of the wedding day. These engagement images make wonderful additions to your wedding website, Pinterest boards, engagement announcements, save the dates, and even gifts for family members.
Think of it as a pre-wedding session designed entirely around your personalities and style. Whether you are dreaming of a cozy session in the mountains of NC or a sunset engagement shoot at the beach, the possibilities are endless. If you are feeling adventurous, a destination engagement session is the perfect way to capture a chapter of your story somewhere meaningful.
Making Memories Together
One of my favorite things about engagement sessions is that they are a fun, relaxed experience with no pressure. It is just the two of you spending a great time together while I document the natural moments that unfold. It is truly the perfect way to pause and appreciate this season of life.
This might even be the last time you have professional photos taken together before the wedding. So go ahead and treat it like a date. At the end of the session you will walk away with beautiful photos and memories that feel authentic and emotional.
The Best Charlotte Locations for Engagement Photos
Since I live in the Charlotte area, I know all the local gems that create stunning backdrops. A few of my favorite spots include
• The Iveys Hotel for a stylish, chic setting (Click here to view Jen & Trey’s engagement session)
• Daniel Stowe Conservancy for lush greenery and romantic garden views (Click here to view Ethan and Rylee’s engagement session)
• Marshall Park for a laid back city park atmosphere (Click here to view Caroline and Derek’s engagement session)
• Uptown Charlotte or South End for modern city vibes and skyline scenes (Click here to view Deven and Ells’ engagement session)
• Stevens Creek Nature Preserve for a peaceful natural landscape
Each location offers a different vibe and is a great opportunity to create engagement images that match your vision.
Celebrate This Season Fully
Choosing to do an engagement session is the perfect way to honor your relationship, prepare for the wedding day, and enjoy a fun time together. When couples ask me why you should do an engagement session, I always tell them it is because it combines comfort, connection, and creativity. It helps you feel confident in front of the camera, gives you professional photos you will love for years, and creates memories that feel authentic to your story.
If you are planning your wedding and want engagement photos that reflect your love in a natural and beautiful way, I would love to document this special time in your life whether that is in Charlotte, throughout NC and SC, or anywhere your story takes you!
Click here to view my engagement photography page!
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