Engagement shoots are awesome, so I include one with all of my wedding photography packages. I love to have the opportunity to spend a couple of relaxed hours with the couples that have hired me in advance of their big day. During the engagement shoot we check out their wedding venue/ photography locations together, make a loose plan for the day, take some photos and generally get an idea of how the wedding shoot will run on their wedding day. This makes everything so much easier on the big day – everyone feels comfortable in front of the camera, knows which shots they liked the best, favourite poses, locations, light, etc. Following the shoot, I will edit the images, add some different colour treatments and crops and send them out for some feedback. This in itself is invaluable to me as it tells me first-hand exactly what my client’s photographic tastes are, meaning that I can tailor my approach and get everything perfect on the day! Of course it also gives my clients a folio of professional images to use as they wish. I’ve seen quite a few photographs taken on an engagement shoot appear at the wedding itself in the form of albums, cards, invites, message book covers and slideshows… which is great!

Here are a handful of photographs from last weekend’s Engagement shoot at “The Landing” in Masterton. I can’t wait to shoot Kate and Phil’s wedding this December, not only have they chosen one of my favourite wedding venues, but they are also a fantastic couple to work with. Fun, natural and very in love, I absolutely love the candid shots that we were able to capture. We were also able to explore some new options for wedding photography at Queen Elizabeth Park in Masterton – there are some real gems there!

Thanks for being awesome guys – the big day is going to be a blast!