Why I made the decision to offer engagement photo sessions within my wedding packages is something I get asked a lot. Do we need to have engagement photos taken? Can we have a package without this? We already had our engagement photos done, do we have to do it again?….. I totally understand these questions and completely understand why you are asking them. Here are a few reasons why engagement sessions are important for me to offer to all upcoming nuptials (I promise they’re good reasons!)

We are all awkward in front of the camera (including me)To be in front of the camera is something so foreign and unnatural to a lot of us. I never know what to do with myself because I don’t want a typical “say cheese and smile” photo but also want it to be in the moment. Believe me, I know it’s a weird feeling if you aren’t a model or use to it. Your wedding day is filled with so much planning and hard work that you want photos to have forever to look back on. You want to look at these photos as authentic, natural and in the moment. An engagement session is a great way to know what it feels like to be in front of my camera because lets be honest, the last time you probably had a professional photographer take your photo was a school photo or another wedding! This gives me the chance to see what kind of look you create in a photo and the best angles and moments to bring out with you as a couple. Whether you’re someone who will giggle with nerves or give intense stares to your lover and try your best to ignore my awkward camera in your face….. it’s great to know these feelings BEFORE the wedding.

We should all have a reason to have real life photo of us.Engagement photos are the perfect time to relax, dress like you normally would, and get photos that will remind of you this stage of your life before the big wedding. (A lot of my brides take advantage of this time to get a make up trial to see how their make up photographs.) Real life trumps perfection, so while I am certain you will look stunning on your wedding day, don’t dismiss the thought of engagement photos! I encourage my couples to bring 2 outfits that best represent them with a few tips on what looks are best in front of the camera and together.

Let’s hang out and get to know each other! Although most of our conversations will happen via email and phone this is our opportunity to catch up in person before your wedding. It’s a chance for you to see who I really am and for me to get a better sense of your relationship. When I show up on your wedding day I don’t want to be “the photographer” I want to be Danica your friend! We’re a team! You’ll get to see how I work too. Every photographer has their own methods and personality of shooting. When your wedding day arrives there won’t be any surprises that would add to your nerves and excitement already. I’m a person behind the camera and would love for you to see ME, Danica and not just “a photographer”.