Engagement Shoot
So you’ve got engaged – congratulations! Now, before the big day, there’s a chance to do something really fun together.
An engagement shoot is basically a low-pressure hangout where we grab some incredible photos of the two of you, you get to know us (and our cameras), and any nerves about being photographed melt away before the wedding even arrives.
Think of it as a practice run – except you’ll end up with photos you’ll genuinely love. No awkward posing, no cheesy setups. Just you two, a great location, and us doing our thing.
Why Have an Engagement Shoot?
We get it – the idea of standing in front of a camera can feel a bit weird. Most of our couples say the same thing before their shoot. Then afterwards? They’re buzzing. Here’s why an engagement shoot is genuinely worth it.
01
You’ll feel confident on your wedding day.
By the time the big day arrives, you’ve already been in front of our cameras. You know how we work, you know we’re not going to make you do anything cringeworthy, and you know the results are going to be good. That makes everything easier – for you and for us.
02
You’ll actually enjoy it
We keep things relaxed and natural. We’ll go for a wander, find some beautiful light, and let you be you. Have a laugh, hold hands, maybe stop for a drink somewhere. It’s not a formal photo session – it’s a couple of hours hanging out that happens to produce amazing images.
03
We get to know each other
By the time your wedding comes around, we won’t be strangers with cameras – we’ll be mates who know your vibe, your sense of humour, and how you are together. That shows in the photos.
What to Expect from Your Engagement Shoot
Your engagement shoot typically lasts around an hour to an hour and a half. We’ll meet at a location we’ve agreed on beforehand – somewhere that means something to you, or just somewhere that looks amazing. Derbyshire has no shortage of incredible spots.
We shoot in natural light and keep everything relaxed. We’ll guide you if needed, but mostly we just let you interact naturally – chatting, laughing, walking together. The best engagement shoot photos come from real moments, not from holding a pose.
You’ll receive a fully edited gallery of images afterwards – typically 50-100+ photos depending on the session. These are the same high-quality, colour-graded images you’ll get from your wedding day.
Engagement Shoot Locations
We’re based in Matlock, right in the heart of Derbyshire, so we’ve got some seriously beautiful locations on our doorstep. Some of our favourite spots for engagement shoots include the Peak District countryside, Chatsworth Estate, Padley Gorge, Cromford Canal, and the streets of Sheffield and Derby for something more urban.
But honestly? The best location is one that means something to you. Where you had your first date, where you got engaged, your favourite pub garden, the park you walk the dog in. Personal beats pretty every time.
We’re happy to travel further afield too – London, the Lakes, the coast. If you’ve got a dream location, let’s make it happen.
What to Wear for Your Engagement Shoot
The short answer: wear what makes you feel like you. Don’t buy something new just for the sake of it (unless you want to – we’re not the fashion police).
A few tips that help: coordinate without matching (similar tones rather than identical outfits), avoid big logos or very busy patterns, and think about the location – heels and muddy fields don’t mix well. Layers work brilliantly in changeable weather, and bringing a second outfit gives you variety without extending the shoot.
Above all, wear something you’re comfortable in. If you feel good, you look good. It really is that simple.
Engagement Shoot FAQs
How much does an engagement shoot cost?
Our engagement shoots are included with most of our wedding photography packages. If you’d like a standalone couples session without booking your wedding with us, get in touch and we’ll chat through options.
When should we have our engagement shoot?
Ideally a few months before your wedding – close enough that you remember how easy it was, but far enough out that you can use the photos for save-the-dates or your wedding website. That said, there’s no wrong time. Some couples do it the week after they get engaged, others a few weeks before the wedding.
Can we bring our dog?
Absolutely. Dogs make engagement shoots better – that’s just science.
What if the weather’s bad?
We shoot in all conditions. Overcast skies actually give the most flattering light, and a bit of rain can create some really atmospheric images. If it’s genuinely horrible, we’ll reschedule – no stress.
How long until we get our photos?
Usually within 2-3 weeks. We’ll send you a fully edited online gallery you can share with family and friends.