Why Have an Engagement Shoot?


You’ll Feel More at Ease on Your Wedding Day

An engagement shoot is the perfect way to capture the excitement of your relationship while also easing any nerves about being in front of the camera. You’ll get relaxed, informal photos and feel much more comfortable with your photographer on the big day.


Perfect for Announcing Your News

Engagement photos are great for save-the-dates, wedding websites, or invitations. Plus, they’re a meaningful way to celebrate this exciting time in your lives.


How Do We Pose Naturally? We’re Shy!

If you’re a little shy, then a pre-wedding shoot will absolutely improve your wedding day imagery. 

I hear this all the time – and trust me, you’re not alone! A pre-wedding session is designed to help you feel at ease and allows us to work together to find poses that feel authentic and natural to you as a couple.

After just a few minutes, you’ll start to relax, and by the end, you’ll feel like pros! On your wedding day, you’ll already know what to expect, so we can focus on capturing stunning moments without any awkwardness. Think of this session as a practice run – but with gorgeous results you’ll cherish forever.


When’s the Best Time to Do a Pre-Wedding Shoot?

It Depends on the Season

Spring blossoms, summer evenings, autumn leaves – every season has its charm. You might also want to schedule your session for the same time of year as your wedding to get a sense of the lighting, foliage, and atmosphere.

Many couples also like to use their photos for wedding stationery, so plan your shoot with those timelines in mind.

Happy newly engaged couple walk together on fallen autumn leaves beneath golden trees near a stone wall on a sunny fall day.
A couple stands along a brick wall walkway on a sunny spring day, with cherry blossoms overhead relaxed and happy having pre wedding photos
Couple standing close together on riverbank boardwalk with stone bridge relaxed and happy having pre wedding photo session
A couple walks hand in hand along a scenic lakeside path on a sunny autumn afternoon.
A couple holds hands while walking through a tall grass meadow under cloudy skies on their pre wedding photo session.
Enjoying their pre wedding engagement session a couple stands together laughing in a grassy field on an overcast day.
A couple shares a romantic moment in a serene meadow with tall grass and trees in the background on an overcast day.

What Time of Day Is Best for a Pre-Wedding Shoot?

Golden Hour or Flexible Timing

Golden hour (just before sunset) is a favourite for its soft, flattering light. In autumn and winter, earlier in the day might work better. I always recommend pencilling in a second date to account for the UK’s unpredictable weather – it’s worth it for the best light and, hopefully, a bonus sunset!


What Should We Wear for a Pre-Wedding Session?

Comfort and Simplicity Are Key

Choose outfits you feel confident and comfortable in. Neutral tones, pastels, or solid colours work beautifully without distracting from you. Avoid logos or busy patterns, and try coordinating with your partner instead of matching exactly.


Where Should We Take Our Engagement Photos?

Your Venue or Somewhere Meaningful

Whether it’s your wedding venue, a countryside walk, or a place that holds sentimental value, the location should reflect your story. I love helping couples find the perfect backdrop – even including kids or pets if you’d like!


How Long Does a Pre-Wedding Shoot Last?

Around 1-2 Hours

This gives us time to chat through your wedding plans, share tips (like how to hold your bouquet or embrace confetti gracefully), and capture stunning images. You’ll leave feeling confident and excited about your wedding photos!


How Much Does an Engagement Session Cost in the UK?

Included in My Packages

I include a pre-wedding shoot in my half-day and full-day wedding packages because I believe in its value. It’s an experience that sets the tone for incredible photos on your wedding day.


Let the Excitement Build

An engagement shoot isn’t just about the photos – it’s about celebrating your love and spending time together ahead of your wedding. Plus, with so many breathtaking spots in the Cotswolds and Oxfordshire, you’ll have a luxurious, private experience that feels truly special.

If you’re asking, “Do we need engagement photos?” – the answer is absolutely yes! You’ll get gorgeous, relaxed images (just in less formal outfits), and the confidence to shine on your wedding day.


How to Book Your Engagement Photoshoot

I’m here to make this part simple. Whether you need advice on timing, outfits, or locations, I’ll guide you every step of the way. Let’s meet at your favourite spot, capture some magic, and make it an experience you’ll love.

Get in touch, and let’s get started!


Romantic couple sits together in a blooming field of purple lavender flowers on a sunny afternoon.
A couple shares an intimate moment outdoors by a lake with industrial buildings visible in the background.
People stand by scenic pond surrounded by spring foliage and flowering trees in a peaceful garden setting.
A couple stands embracing in front of an ornate gothic iron gate with gold details and stone archway.
Two people walk together on a leaf-covered trail through an autumn forest with orange and brown foliage.
A couple embraces in a doorway of an old brick garden wall with flowering trees and bokeh effect in foreground.
Ornate golden and black decorative entrance gate at historical stone building with archway and detailed metalwork.
A peaceful afternoon scene of someone fishing at a tranquil pond surrounded by lush trees and green foliage.
A couple sharing an intimate moment against an old stone wall with an ornate shell-shaped architectural detail above.
A couple embraces in a grassy field on an overcast day, wearing casual sweaters and jeans.
A couple wearing black winter puffer jackets embrace and laugh together against a stone wall background.
A romantic couple stands among tall trees in a sunlit forest with natural light streaming through the branches.
A couple poses with their large black dog in a sunny green field with trees in the background.
A couple embraces while laughing together outdoors in front of a brick building during a spring day.
A couple embraces on a leaf-covered forest path during autumn with vibrant orange foliage in the background.
A romantic moment between a couple embracing outdoors with lush greenery in the background relaxed and enjoying engagement photoshoot
A romantic couple stands beneath a gothic stone archway with wrought iron gates and a lantern in an English garden setting.
A couple embraces outdoors in a garden setting, on a sunny day having their pre wedding photo session
A couple embraces under blooming spring cherry blossoms in a garden setting relaxed and happy having pre wedding photo session

I've really enjoyed writing this blog - hope you enjoyed it too ❤️


A couple standing in a rustic brick doorway and autumn foliage in soft lighting relaxed and happy having pre wedding photo session

If you feel inspired, please get in touch to see if I'm that Wedding Photographer you are looking for... www.vickyphotography.co.uk