Why You Should Book an Engagement Shoot (Even If You’re Camera Shy)

6 Jul

Feel Awkward in Front of the Camera? You’re Not Alone, and That’s Exactly Why an Engagement Shoot Is Brilliant

Right then. Let’s have a proper natter about something that makes loads of lovely couples feel a bit... squirmy.

📸 Being photographed.

Especially if you’re anything like I used to be - the kind of person who’d rather wrestle a badger than be centre of attention in a photo. (No judgement. I get it.)

Here’s the thing. You are not the only ones who feel like this. As a Lancashire wedding photographer who’s genuinely chuffed to work with camera-shy couples, I’m here to spill a little secret.

Booking an engagement shoot might just be the best thing you do to make your wedding day feel relaxed, fun and way less stressful.

So grab a brew, get comfy and let’s chat about why it’s totally worth it.

1. It’s a Practice Run, but a Fun One

Unless you’ve got a secret career in catwalk modelling (if so, fair play), most of us aren’t used to having a camera pointed at us.

An engagement shoot is the perfect way to get comfy, find your groove and see how I work without the pressure of a full wedding day.

No stiff poses. No panicking about what to do with your hands.
Just relaxed, natural moments as you hang out and be your brilliant selves, while I quietly capture it all like a friendly shadow in the background.

2. You’ll Actually Get to Know Me

You’re going to spend a big chunk of your wedding day with your photographer. Sometimes even more than with your family. (Sorry, Mum.)

So it helps if you actually like them.

The engagement shoot is our chance to have a laugh, swap stories and maybe bond over a love of dogs, country pubs or really terrible puns.

By the end, I want you to feel like you’ve just been on a lovely walk with a mate who just happened to bring a camera along.

3. It Eases the Nerves Before the Big Day

Weddings come with their fair share of nerves, and being photographed is usually high on that list.

But after your engagement shoot, you’ll realise it’s not awkward at all. It’s actually... dare I say it... fun?

You’ll know exactly what to expect. No surprises. Just you two being yourselves, with someone behind the camera who knows how to help you feel at ease.

4. You’ll Get Gorgeous Photos to Keep Forever

Engagement photos aren’t just practice shots.
They’re real, meaningful memories from a chapter of your life that deserves celebrating.

You’re planning a future together. That’s massive. Why not capture some of that joy?

Bonus: they’re perfect for save-the-dates, invites or even just printing for the fridge. We all need more reasons to smile while digging for snacks, right?

5. It’s Honestly Really Fun, Even If You Hate Photos

I know “fun” isn’t the first word that comes to mind when you think about being in front of a camera. But hear me out.

Once we get going, it’s just a relaxed stroll, a few daft laughs and a chance to be yourselves without any pressure.

Got a dog? Bring them. (Arthur insists.)

You’ll be so wrapped up in enjoying the moment that you’ll probably forget I’m even there. That’s when the best photos happen.

“But We’re Really Awkward...”

Yep. Most couples say that. You’re completely normal.

You don’t need to know how to pose or what to do. That’s my job. I’ll guide you gently, never make it weird and help bring out the real connection between you. No stiff smiles. No cheesy nonsense.

And if you do fancy going full Vogue in the middle of a field, I’m game. Let’s make it your own.

Ready to Book Your Engagement Shoot?

If you’re planning your big day in Lancashire or anywhere across our gorgeous North West, and the idea of being photographed makes you a bit nervous, then you’re exactly the kind of couple I love working with.

I get such a buzz from helping people feel completely at ease and capturing the moments that actually feel like you.

Let’s create something brilliant together: