
Engagement session: why and how to plan it before your wedding?
Are you getting married? What a wonderful decision! You’re probably planning your big day, but have you thought about an engagement session? I always recommend this unique experience to my future brides and grooms. But what is an engagement session, and why should you plan it before the wedding? Let’s find out.
What is an Engagement Session?

An engagement photo session is a couple's photo session before your wedding. It allows you to capture your complicity and create wonderful memories before the big day. In contrast to the pressure of the wedding, these photos take place in a relaxed atmosphere, often in a venue that's close to your heart.
During this session, you can explore different poses and experiment with varied angles, while enjoying yourself. The laughter, the complicity, and the soft gestures are highlighted to create clichés that tell your story as a real couple. Plus, these photos can be used for your fair share, your wedding website or even as decoration at your reception.
In short, this is the ideal moment to capture the love you share every day.
Why to plan an Engagement Session before your wedding?

If you're not comfortable in front of a camera, this is the ideal time to familiarize yourself with your photographer and the way he or she works. This will create a mutual trust that will make all the difference on the wedding day. By taking the time to talk with your photographer, you can also share your expectations and ideas about the photos you want. Don't hesitate to show him examples of images you like, to help him understand your vision. This pre-wedding session can be an excellent opportunity to get used to being photographed. This will help you feel more natural and relaxed on the big day. During this session, try out different poses and angles, so you can see what works best for you.
Remember that your photographer is there for you, to capture the authentic moments and emotions of your day. Don't forget to enjoy each moment and have fun, because these memories will stay etched forever. By establishing a good relationship with your photographer, you not only create beautiful photos, but also ensure a memorable experience.


Which location to choose for this photo shoot?
The best advice I can give you is to choose an area that resonates with your story.
You love nature?
The choice is endless! The parks, with their formal gardens, tall trees and wide avenues, offer majestic backdrops for romantic photos. The surrounding forests, with their shady paths and peaceful clearings, add a touch of serenity. Lakes or rivers, meanwhile, can add an aquatic element, ideal for reflections and a soothing ambience. Why not a large wheat field if agriculture is your passion!
You are urban in your heart ?
Urban scenes offer an incredible diversity for your photos. Whether in the smaller, more picturesque streets of your city, with their colored facades and artisinal shops, or in more modern districts with clean lines and graffiti artwork, each place tells a unique story. A market, a historic square, or even a building that evokes memories can become the perfect backdrop.
More of a cozy vibe?
If you love cozy atmospheres, choose a cafe where you enjoy spending time together. This adds a personal touch and relaxed feel to your photos. You can also opt for an apartment or interior space that you feel at home, with decoration items or elements that remind you of your daily life. These intimate spaces create a cozy, authentic atmosphere, perfect for cliché-like photos.
Any particular place in mind?
Perhaps the place where you first met, the place where you said “I do”, or even a place that symbolizes a milestone in your relationship. Every detail counts to make your photos even more unique.
Consider natural light, which plays an essential role in the quality quality of your photos. In the morning or late afternoon, the soft golden light can make your shots even more beautiful. And don't forget to consider the seasons: in spring, flowers in full bloom add an explosion of color, while in autumn, golden leaves create a romantic atmosphere.
Finally, don't hesitate to include personal elements in your session, such as objects that are close to your heart or clothes that represent you. This will make your photos even more unique and memorable. Whatever you choose, the important thing is that it reflects your personality and emotions.



How and when to plan your session?
Planning an engagement session requires a lot of thought to ensure it is perfect for your needs and desires.
Date
Ideally, schedule this session a few months before your wedding. This will give you time to use the photos for your wedding invitations or your wedding website. Think about the season too: every time of year offers unique atmospheres, from spring flowers to the warm colors of autumn.
Clothing
Opt for clothing that makes you feel comfortable and reflects your style. It's not more complicated than that. If you love changing, then dress up. You can even bring a replacement outfit to vary the atmosphere!
Finally, take the time to talk to your photographer. Together, you can choose a location that tells your story and plan the details for a seamless, enjoyable session. This experience can also be the perfect opportunity to strengthen your commitment and prepare you to be photographed on your big day. And most importantly, have fun: this is the perfect time to celebrate your love!


What Can You Expect from an Engagement Session?
Photos of your love story, moments of complicity, and natural shots that reveal your love. It's also a way to discover the importance of capturing genuine, authentic moments, far from clichés.
Conclusion

An engagement session is much more than just a series of photos. It's a unique experience that lets you celebrate your love in a setting that's just like you. Whether you opt for a romantic park, a vibrant city street, a cozy venue or a place full of memories, every choice will contribute to making these shots unforgettable. By carefully planning the date, selecting the right outfits and collaborating with your photographer, you can not only create precious memories, but also use these photos for your invitations or other elements of your wedding. Beyond the images, this session is a great opportunity to strengthen your complicity and prepare you to live your big day with serenity and confidence.
If you're looking for a photographer for your wedding or engagement session in Sceaux or France, I'd be happy to meet you. But don't forget the most important thing: be yourself, the photographer takes care of the rest.

About me
My name is Jérémy and I'm a professional photographer based in Sceaux (92 - Hauts-de-Seine). For me, photography and videography are much more than a profession: they're a philosophy. It allows me to get closer to what really matters - human relationships, the bonds we build and the stories we live together.