Couples photoshoots are some of my favorite types of photos to take. There’s just something about going on an adventure with a couple and watching them blossom and show their love in front of me for the camera. It’s such a unique and special bonding time for couples before their wedding, but so often I hear people asking, “Are engagement photos worth it?”

Why your engagement photos matter can mean something different for every person. Whether they’re for save the dates or simply a way to unwind amidst the wedding planning chaos, I promise you that your engagement photos are worth it. And I’m not just saying this to get you to shoot with me—I don’t care where you go to get them done, just do it! Honestly, you won’t regret it.

Today, I really want to hone in on some of the reasons as to why engagement photos matter so much to couples. It’s not as simple as you may think!

Engagement Photos Are Sentimental

Now when I say sentimental, I don’t mean your photos are going to be sappy, but instead, they’ll create a wonderful expression of your love for each other. Oftentimes, people will opt out of taking engagement pics to save money because they think they’re just something sappy for you and your partner to do. But they don’t have to be like that!

Your engagement session can be you and your partner grabbing Beecher’s at Pike Place—I will gladly take pics of you shoving mac-n-cheese in each other’s faces or grabbing coffee from La Panier. We could go to the aquarium where you had your first date, plan an elven picnic in the woods, or maybe splatter paint on each other—let's just have fun!

Whatever it is, I just want you to pick a place where you can feel comfortable with the person you love. When was the last time you took a photo together that wasn’t a selfie or one your friend took of you at a wedding? Yup, that’s what I thought ;)

It's Okay to Treat Yo'Self

Amidst the chaos of planning your wedding, I often find that engagement photo sessions help solidify how “real” the situation is. You actually get to marry your best friend! When my husband and I took ours, we had such a fun time, and it really made us feel closer during a very chaotic time.

Taking engagement photos often serves as a way for couples to feel that “togetherness” and love that prompted them to get married in the first place. You get a day together to dress up, go out, and simply bask in your love for each other through laughter and lots of smooches. Take a deep breath and just enjoy this moment together before the real wedding chaos beings.

Engagement Photos Help You Get Comfy in Front of the Camera

If you’ve never had professional photos taken (or even if you have), you’re likely going to feel awkward and uncomfortable in front of a camera the first few times. It’s hard to have the focus be on you. Trust me, as a shy and awkward introvert, I totally understand. I also tend to hate photos of myself unless I take them or another photographer captures my best angles, but that’s why it’s my job to help eliminate that worry from your session.

The best part? I live in a fat body. I understand how to maneuver; I know what limitations look like; I know how to take it slow so you're not sweating off any makeup. Remember that these photos are for you and your partner, so I want to help make things as enjoyable as possible for both of you.

By taking engagement photos, you’re also helping to prepare for the wedding day. You're going to be in front of plenty of cameras, smiling a whole bunch, and probably completely over it. But when you have practice with engagement photos, you’ll already be comfortable with your photographer and know what to expect on your big day. Think of an engagement photo session as a “practice run” for your wedding—I promise it will give you amazing boosts of confidence!