E:
What are the advantages of having a set of engagement photos taken?
RK: The main advantage of an engagement session, is to get the couples used to having their photos taken without the nerves and rush of the wedding day. It also gets them used to how I work so that on the day they feel relaxed having their photos taken. During the engagement shoot we often discuss and try some shots that I have in mind for the wedding day, this speeds things up on the big day when time frames can be very tight . The shoots are intended to be as fun and relaxed as possible. It is also a nice record of the couple before their wedding day as often their family photos really only begin with the wedding photos when everyone is formally dressed. With the engagement photos I try to show some of the couples individual style, and I would like to think that if they have children later on that they would love to see their parents as they were when they meet. E:
Would you recommend that engagement photos be taken at an engagement party or a special time be set aside?
RK: I recommend that the couple definitely set a special time aside and I try and get them to choose a special place that is significant for them. Each couple generally have a special place of their own whether that be where the proposal occurred, family properties or that very special favourite end of date spot. E:
Do you include an engagement session as part of a wedding package?
RK: The engagement session is more about ensuring that my clients are getting a high level of service and that I as a photographer can build the most effective relationship with the client. If they book a wedding shoot with me I will offer this as part of my package . I offer Engagement shoots to my local clients and also to my out of town clients on the condition that they come to me for the shoot. Luckily I live in a great location with a gorgeous beach, historic buildings, cute
Page 70 : engaged : September 2009