Wondering when to book your engagement photos?

In my last blog post, I gave you in the inside scoop about why engagement photos are kind of a big deal. For Part 2 of the series, let’s get into the nitty gritty on when you need to schedule your engagement photos.

Timing is everything–in life & in wedding-planning– so today, I’m sharing all you need to know about the why behind when to schedule your engagement photos session.

When To Book Your Engagement Photos

I typically suggest couples book their engagement sessions at least 6-9 months before their wedding days. 

Why? Because things tend to get, ahem, stressful, right before the big day. 

You want you to be relaxed, carefree, and running on that post-engagement high during your photo session. 

You DON’T want to be stressed about why Aunt Janet still hasn’t RSVPed and if the band your fiancé picked will play “Pour Some Sugar On Me” instead of “Sugar Pie, Honey Bunch.”

Plus, if you want to use your engagement photos for save the dates, wedding announcements, programs, and other mementos, you’ll want to have those images ready to go when needed.

Time of Year

Consider the time of year (and climate!) when you book your engagement photos.

For example, in the Southeast, the heat of summer might make for a miserable time. (And think of what that humidity does to your hair!) You also don’t want temps to be so cold that you can’t wear that flowy maxi you dreamed of!

If you plan ahead, you can use the calendar in your favor and schedule your session when you’ll be comfortable–not sweaty.

Time of Day

I shoot engagement photos on weekday evenings, starting about 2.5 hours before sunset.

Why? 

Lighting is EVERYTHING in photography.

Those dreamy, sun drenched images you love happen when we work with mother nature’s Golden Hour. (The hour or so right before sunset when daylight is softer than when the sun is higher in the sky.)

(Note: Early mornings, just after sunrise– also make for fantastic photos.)
Related: Brad & Sarah Jane’s Lakeside Engagement Session

Wrapping Up!

It’s never too early to start planning your engagement session date. My clients and I start planning engagement photos within the first month of signing a contract, even if the date we’ll actually do the session is months out. Planning ahead means we get to give you the look & experience you want for photos!

Lastly, if we haven’t met yet, I’d love to learn more about you, your fiancé, and your dream wedding! Reach out today so we can schedule your consultation!

Next up in our engagement session series, I’ll share what clothing photographs best and ideas on where to shop for options that flatter every body type. Hint, hint: check out the couple below!