Just Say "Yes!" to E-Sessions

First, what are they? Engagement Sessions are a couple's only shoot that usually takes place at a location that either has a special meaning to the engaged couple or just happens to be a fabulous location for the style or theme your going for. These usually take place a few months or weeks before the wedding.

Why are they important? Simply because you can't have as much fun with your photographer on the day of the wedding without getting your clothes dirty. At the E-Session, you and your photog can get as creative and crazy as you want. It's completely private and get a chance to cut loose, and your photographer gets a chance to really show you guys off having a ball with each other.

Personally, the most important reason for me is that these sessions give everyone a chance to build a relationship with each other. The photographer with the couple, and the couple with the photographer...AND the camera. Most people aren't comfortable in front of a camera, and this makes for a great introduction. Also, this is the time to talk about different ideas you might have and bounce them off with your photographer. Plus, your photog will also know what works best for both of you, the angles, what makes you laugh...everything important that will help him or her on the big day.

When everyone involved 'clicks' (pun totally intended!) and the ice is broken, everyone is more relaxed and begins to have fun. This is when the photos take a turn for the better and your photog captures it all. Every e-session gives us photographers and the couple a comfort zone that otherwise we wouldn't have. Then when it comes to the wedding, when we see other, it's like seeing a friend.

It's like, "Heyyy! Asim! You're here! Let's have fun!" rather then..."Oh, hey, you're Mr. Photographer? Okay, wow, your camera is huge...okay, what do I do?"

You get the idea, but here are some pointers I tell my couples before their e-session:
-Dress fabulous, yet casual; jeans are always perfect with nice solid tops.
-Take a couple of extra shirts to try different looks.
-Dress in layers to give some depth.
-Make sure both of your styles don't clash, but definetly should be fun.
-Don't show too much skin. Full-sleeves are good. Focus should be on both of your smiles and the eyes, not on the legs or arms.
-Big No-No on T-shirts, unless worn as a layer underneath.
-Schedule the shoot within four weeks of your wedding. You want to look the same in both sets of pictures.
-Keep the make-up simple as possible. You want to look as natural as possible because people are beautiful just the way they are.

Most imporant...Think of it as the second-date with your fiance...Laugh, smile, joke, hold hands, hug, blush, tease...and I promise you'll love the photos.

So if your photographer offers this service, and many do, don't pass up on it. You won't regret it because the photos are worth it.

If you have any questions or would like to share your experience at an e-session as the couple or the photographer, please drop me a comment anytime.

Best wishes!

/asim