Should you book an engagement session? 8 Tips from St. Petersburg wedding photographer Nina Bashaw
As a St. Petersburg wedding photographer, I often get asked whether couples should book an engagement session. While it's not a strict requirement, there are many compelling reasons to consider one. Engagement photos capture a beautiful moment in your relationship and offer a chance to connect with your photographer before the big day. If you're unsure whether to book an engagement session, here are some reasons why it might be the perfect addition to your wedding experience.
1. Get Comfortable in Front of the Camera
For many couples, an engagement session is the first time they’ve been professionally photographed together. Understandably, it can feel a bit awkward at first. Booking an engagement session allows you to get used to being in front of the camera, which helps reduce nerves on your wedding day. You’ll have the chance to see how your St. Petersburg wedding photographer works, and you'll feel more relaxed when it’s time for the main event.
2. Build a Connection with Your Photographer
An engagement session is a great opportunity to develop a rapport with your wedding photographer. It’s important to feel comfortable with the person who will be capturing one of the most important days of your life. The engagement session allows your photographer to get to know you as a couple—your personalities, how you interact, and what types of photos you’re drawn to. This relationship helps ensure that your wedding photos reflect your unique love story.
3. Create Beautiful, Personalized Save-the-Dates
One of the biggest perks of an engagement session is having beautiful photos to use for your save-the-dates, invitations, or wedding website. These photos give your guests a glimpse into your love story and set the tone for your wedding day. With stunning St. Petersburg locations like Vinoy Park, Sunken Gardens, or the vibrant murals of Central Avenue, your engagement photos can be truly unique and meaningful.
4. Celebrate This Special Moment
Your engagement is a once-in-a-lifetime moment. While your wedding day will be full of special memories, your engagement represents the start of your wedding journey. Booking a session lets you pause and celebrate this exciting time. Engagement photos capture the joy, excitement, and anticipation leading up to your wedding, creating memories you’ll cherish forever.
5. Explore Iconic St. Petersburg Locations
St. Petersburg offers a variety of beautiful locations for engagement photos. From the breathtaking waterfront views at North Straub Park to the serene natural beauty of Fort De Soto Park, there’s no shortage of options for creating the perfect backdrop. Whether you want a beachy, laid-back vibe or something more urban and artistic, your engagement session is a chance to showcase the places that mean the most to you.
6. Showcase Your Personal Style
An engagement session gives you the freedom to express your style and personality as a couple. Whether you want a casual, playful session in the park or a more formal shoot in the heart of downtown St. Petersburg, the possibilities are endless. You can incorporate wardrobe changes, favorite activities, or meaningful locations to tell your love story in a way that feels authentic to you.
7. Wedding Day Prep
An engagement session is a great "dress rehearsal" for your wedding day. You can practice poses, get a feel for how long photos may take, and experience working with your photographer. It’s also a good opportunity to experiment with makeup or hair styling, so you’ll know exactly what to expect when the big day arrives.
8. Document Your Love Story
Your wedding photos will capture the magic of your big day, but your engagement photos tell the story of who you are as a couple before you say "I do." They document your relationship in a more relaxed, everyday setting. Whether you’re walking hand-in-hand down the streets of Historic Old Northeast or laughing together at the St. Pete Pier, these images reflect your love in its most natural form.
Booking an engagement session is about more than just pretty photos. It’s a chance to celebrate your relationship, build trust with your St. Petersburg wedding photographer, and create lasting memories in some of the most beautiful places in the city. Whether you use the images for save-the-dates, décor, or just to remember this special time, an engagement session is a worthwhile investment in your wedding journey. If you’re ready to book your engagement session or have questions, I’d love to help you create stunning, timeless images that reflect your love story.
Follow Me:
Nina Bashaw is fine art luxury elopement and wedding photographer in St. Petersburg. She specializes in classica and timeless natural light photography with natural posing and genuine smaile. Nina travels throughout Tampa, Sarasota, Anna Maria Island, Longboat Key, and surrounding areas for weddings and luxury elopements giving her clients a personalized experience. Contact me for pricing and inquire about availability for 2024, 2025 and 2026. Thank you for stopping by my blog!
Comments