The 2013 wedding season is fast approaching and we are oh-SO-excited. Did you know today is technically the first day of Spring (despite it being 25 degrees out)? I’ve decided to come out of winter hibernation, enjoy the sunlight, pretend it’s 60 degrees (not 20!) and blog.

A lot of brides don’t have a clue as to when they should schedule an engagement session, which is TOTALLY fine! I’m here to rescue you!

Before we begin with the when…we should start with the why.

1. WHY Take Engagement Photos????

The first twenty minutes of an engagement session are typically used to get the couple situated and comfortable. As a photographer I want images like this…. I want  giggles and emotion!!!

not like this… (images courtesy of awkwardfamilyphotos.com) — ps, this site sucks me in almost as bad as Pinterest!

I really hope you aren’t this awkward at your session, but if you are (and you won’t be.. because we won’t let you be!) you’ll want a practice round before your wedding day, correct? How often are you mushy-gushy with your fiancé in front of a camera? NEVER! With that being said, if you give your photographer 30 minutes on your wedding day and you have NOT had an engagement session then you will have 20 minutes of semi-awkward photos… not cool. (ps. anytime you want to bring a cat skeleton to your engagement shoot, please do ;)

Let’s stick to gorgeous natural photos :)

AND…secondly…having an engagement photo to use in save the dates is always a great idea.

2. WHEN to take your engagement photos

Sending mailers using engagement photos may affect the timing of your session. If your sending out save the dates, give yourself 7-8 months before your wedding. The cards need to be sent out at least 6 months before your wedding date to ensure guests have plenty of time to make travel arrangements.  If your guests are traveling from really far away you may want to consider sending save the dates closer to 8 months in advance.

**Please schedule your session at least 1 month before you want to send out your mailers as it will take time to get your cards designed and printed.**

Finally,  If your not sending out mailers you can schedule your session for your favorite time of year!

I am partial to winter as I wanted snow SO BAD in my photos!

If you love the colors of Fall, take advantage of it!

Whenever you decide, make sure you contact your photographer and get your session on the calendar! Our shooting time is rare and valuable and we want to make sure you get the photos you love at the perfect time!

p.s. Keep your eyes peeled for part 2 “what to wear for engagement photos!”

With love,
Sarah Liz

Rachel Linnea & Sarah Liz | Wedding Photographers