Engagement Shoot vs. Pre-Wedding Shoot: What’s the Difference (and Why You Should 1000% Do Both)
Alright lovebirds, let’s clear something up—because the world of wedding lingo can be a damn maze sometimes.
You’ve probably heard people throwing around terms like “engagement shoot” and “pre-wedding shoot” like they’re the same thing. And honestly? Sometimes they are. But sometimes… they are so not. So let’s talk about what’s what, why it all matters, and why I’m shouting from the rooftops that every couple should make time for both.
Ready for your love to be perfectly documented? Let’s chat.
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So, What the Heck Is an Engagement Shoot?
In the age of surprise proposals that rival Oscar-worthy productions, an “engagement shoot” has taken on a whole new meaning. These days, it often refers to the moment someone pops the question—and a sneaky photographer (hi, that’s me) is hiding behind a bush or pretending to bird-watch while snapping one of the biggest moments of your life.
It’s raw. It’s emotional. It’s the moment. Your partner’s face when they realize what’s happening. Your reaction when you say “YES.” The happy tears. The hugs. The ugly cries. All of it. That’s an engagement shoot in the modern sense: it’s the actual proposal being captured in real time.
And honestly? That shit is priceless.
Now Enter: The Pre-Wedding Shoot
Think of this one as the chill, artsy sibling of the engagement shoot. No surprises. No hiding. No planning a secret speech. Just the two of you, soaking in this weird, wild, beautiful in-between space before you become officially hitched.
A pre-wedding shoot is all about you and your vibe. It’s creative, relaxed, and fun as hell. You get to dress how you want (yes, you can totally go glam or keep it casual), go somewhere that feels meaningful or just downright cool, and take a beat to breathe and just be in love—before all the schedules, seating charts, and last-minute aunt drama hits.
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Why Both Shoots Matter
Now you might be thinking, “Do we really need two shoots?” As much as I wanna say, “Hell yes, you do”… It’s honestly your choice. Keep reading because I will explain why you should and then, you can make that choice.
1. The Engagement Shoot is Your Origin Story
This is the start of it all. It's the proof that love hits hard, right in the feels. Capturing that exact moment you said yes? That’s the kind of memory you want to bottle up and keep forever.
2. The Pre-Wedding Shoot is Your Exhale
After all the planning and Pinterest boards and dress shopping, the pre-wedding shoot is where you get to slow down and reconnect. No timelines. No guests. No pressure. Just you two, doing your thing.
3. You’ll Be Camera-Ready on Wedding Day
Both sessions help you get comfy in front of the lens. By the time your wedding rolls around, you’ll be pros. No stiff posing. No awkward “what do I do with my hands?” moments. Just natural, real love in motion.
4. More Photos. More Memories. No Regrets.
Trust me—no one has ever said “Damn, I wish we had less beautiful photos of us in love.”
The Bottom Line
Your love story is worth telling from every angle. The surprise, the joy, the quiet moments, and the chaos. Doing both an engagement shoot and a pre-wedding shoot gives you the full picture—and honestly, you deserve that.
Whether you’re popping the question with a drone show and flash mob, or keeping it low-key in your favorite park, I’ll be there. And when you’re ready to celebrate the calm before the ceremony storm, I’ll be there too—camera in hand, ready to capture the magic that is just you two being you.
So go ahead. Do both. You’ll never regret having more love locked in.
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Need help planning either one?
Let’s talk locations, vibes, outfits, and all that good stuff. I’m here to make this whole experience fun, stress-free, and unforgettable (with zero awkward posing, promise). Hit that contact page!