Why Every Couple Should Do an Engagement Session (and How to Make the Most of It)

By Balderrama Photography

Planning a wedding is no small feat. Between booking venues, coordinating vendors, and deciding which shade of blush your bridesmaids should wear, it’s easy to forget the why behind it all: two people, in love, starting a life together.

That’s where the engagement session comes in.

As a husband and wife photojournalist team, we’ve had the honor of capturing love stories across the U.S. and beyond. And if there’s one thing we never stop recommending to couples, it’s this:

Take the engagement photos. You’ll never regret it.

Why Engagement Sessions Matter

Your engagement shoot is more than just a warm-up for the wedding day. It’s a moment to slow down, breathe, and capture your love as it is — right now. Before the dress fittings, before the seating charts, before the first look. Just the two of you.

We’ve photographed couples in mountaintops, city streets, cozy cafés, and golden beaches. And every time, we see the same magic happen: nerves melt away, personalities shine, and love becomes visible.

Oh — and let’s not forget how valuable these photos are for save-the-dates, your wedding website, or that gallery wall in your first home together.

📸 Quick Prep Guide: How to Get the Most Out of Your Shoot

1. Timing is Everything

We always recommend shooting during Golden Hour — that dreamy 60–90 minute window right before sunset where the light is soft, flattering, and impossibly romantic. It’s pure magic, and your photos will thank you.

2. What to Wear

Keep it timeless. Neutrals, soft tones, and minimal patterns always photograph best. Bring one outfit that feels like you on a great day and another that elevates the vibe — think casual and romantic, then formal and elegant. Most importantly: wear what makes you feel confident and connected.

3. Pick a Meaningful Location

Beach walks, downtown strolls, mountaintop views, or even your own backyard — choose a spot that reflects your story. And if you’re not sure? We have a whole list of jaw-dropping locations we’d love to share.

4. Bring the Little Things

Champagne, your dog, a vintage car, a favorite book, a record player, your partner’s guitar — those personal touches tell your story. Props don’t just make photos interesting; they make them you.

5. Let Go of “Perfect”

You don’t have to be a model. You just have to be in love. We’ll guide you every step of the way with natural posing, gentle prompts, and a whole lot of laughter. The best photos happen when you forget the camera’s there.

Bonus: Engagement Sessions Build Trust

Another reason we love engagement shoots? They help build connection between us and you. You’ll get a feel for how we shoot, and we’ll learn your natural chemistry, how you move together, and what makes your love unique. By the time your wedding day arrives, we won’t just be your photographers — we’ll feel like old friends.

💍 Book in August, Get a Free Engagement Session

Yes — you read that right. Reserve your wedding date with us this month and receive a complimentary engagement shoot. Limited spots available. Click here to claim your offer →

Let’s make something beautiful together — and capture not just how your love looks, but how it feels.