Your engagement is a once-in-a-lifetime moment, and capturing it with beautiful photos is something you’ll treasure forever. But with so many photographers out there, how do you choose the right one for you? Here’s a guide to help you find an engagement photographer who will make your session not only successful but enjoyable.

Review Their Portfolio

Every photographer has their own unique style, and reviewing their portfolio is the first step in finding someone whose work resonates with you.

• Do you love light, airy shots or dramatic, moody tones?

• Do you prefer posed portraits or candid, natural moments?

Look for consistency in their work and ensure their editing style aligns with your preferences. The portfolio is a reflection of the quality you can expect in your own photos.

Don’t hesitate to ask to see a full gallery from a past engagement session. While portfolios often showcase the absolute best images, a full gallery gives you a better idea of what to expect from start to finish.

You’ll see how the photographer handles various lighting situations, angles, and poses, ensuring their style aligns with your vision.

Consider Their Personality

A photographer isn’t just someone who snaps pictures; they set the tone for your session.

You’ll want someone who makes you feel comfortable and at ease, as this will show in your photos.

Pay attention to their communication style during initial interactions.

• Are they warm and approachable?
• Do they listen to your ideas and concerns?
• Are they professional and courteous in their interactions?

A great photographer should feel more like a trusted friend than just a service provider.

Read Reviews and Testimonials

Reviews can provide invaluable insight into what it’s like to work with a photographer.

Look for comments about their professionalism, punctuality, communication, and ability to make couples feel at ease.

Pay special attention to recurring themes—if multiple clients rave about how the photographer made their session fun and stress-free, that’s a good sign.

Discuss Their Approach

Every photographer has a different approach to engagement sessions.

Some focus on candid, documentary-style photography, while others specialize in more structured, posed images.

Many photographers offer a unique blend of both.

During your initial consultation, ask about their process and how they guide couples during the shoot.

• Do they offer prompts to help you relax and feel natural?
• Do they plan poses in advance?

Understanding their approach can help you decide if they’re the right fit for your vision.

Check Their Availability

Engagement photos are often time-sensitive, especially if you’re planning to use them for wedding invitations or save-the-dates.

Make sure your preferred photographer is available within your desired timeframe. Ask how far in advance they typically book up, as popular photographers may fill their schedules months ahead.

Additionally, discuss the turnaround time for receiving your edited photos to ensure it aligns with your wedding planning timeline.

Planning these details early can help reduce stress and ensure you meet your deadlines.

Look for Packages and Pricing

Engagement sessions are often included in wedding photography packages, so if you’ve already booked your wedding photographer, check if an engagement session is part of the deal.

If not, or if you’re hiring a separate photographer, inquire about standalone engagement packages.

Ask about what’s included, such as the number of photos, editing, travel fees, and rights to prints.

Remember, the cheapest option isn’t always the best; quality and experience are worth the investment.

Schedule a Consultation

Many photographers offer a free consultation to discuss your ideas and expectations. (If they don't, that's usually a red flag!)

Use this opportunity to:

• Share your vision for the shoot.
• Ask about locations and outfit suggestions.
• Learn about their process and timeline.
• Get a sense of their personality and whether you’ll feel comfortable working with them.

This conversation can help you gauge their enthusiasm, professionalism, and ability to bring your ideas to life.

Evaluate Their Communication

Strong communication is key to a successful session.

From the first email or call, notice how quickly they respond and how clearly they address your questions.

A good photographer will take the time to ensure you feel prepared and confident going into your session. Poor communication upfront can lead to unnecessary stress later.

Here are some specific questions you might ask:

• How do you typically guide couples during a session?

• What happens if there’s bad weather on the scheduled day?

• How long does it usually take to receive the final gallery?

• Are there any additional costs we should be aware of?

• Can we incorporate personal props or pets into the session?

Think About Connection

The best photographers don’t just take beautiful pictures—they capture your unique connection as a couple.

During the consultation, pay attention to whether the photographer seems genuinely interested in your story and dynamic.

Do they ask questions about how you met or what’s important to you as a couple?

Building a rapport with your photographer will make your photos more authentic and meaningful.

Trust Your Instincts

After considering all these factors, trust your gut.

If a photographer’s work excites you and their personality clicks with yours, chances are they’re the right fit.

Your engagement photos are about more than just pretty pictures—they’re about capturing the joy and love you feel during this special time in your life.

Choose someone who will make that process fun, memorable, and stress-free.