As we look ahead to 2026, one trend that continues to shine bright is the engagement photoshoot! More than just a set of pretty pictures, these sessions are becoming an indispensable part of the wedding experience, offering so much more than meets the eye.
I recently had the pleasure of chatting with a local photographer, Farrah Sanjari of Farrah Sanjari Photography, based right here in Ottawa, Ontario. Farrah shared invaluable insights into why engagement sessions are booming in popularity and how they create lasting memories for couples.
Building Trust, One Click at a Time
For many couples, being in front of a camera can feel a little daunting. That’s where an engagement session truly shines! Farrah emphasizes that these sessions build trust between the couple and their photographer. “Many couples have never been in front of a camera before,” Farrah explains. “These sessions help them feel at ease on their wedding day.” It’s a fantastic opportunity for the photographer to understand the couple’s natural reactions, preferences, and unique needs, ensuring a smoother and more comfortable experience when the big day arrives.
Storytelling in the Digital Age
The rise of digital platforms and social media has certainly propelled engagement sessions into the spotlight. Couples are creatively using these photos for everything from wedding websites and digital invites to engaging social media content. As Farrah notes, “These photos serve as a form of ‘storytelling’ before the wedding day.” Imagine guests seeing a beautiful visual narrative of your love story even before you walk down the aisle – or, more accurately, before they even have to figure out who’s who at the reception! Today couples will often go to the extent of contracting a photographer for their engagement session who is different from the photographer doing their Wedding Day shoot. Apparently, two photographers are better than one, especially when one is for your private ‘getting engaged’ glow-up and the other is for capturing your grandma’s secret dance moves.
From Posed to Playful: The Evolution of Engagement Photography
There has been a significant shift towards more authentic and natural displays of relationships in photography. Inspired by social media, modern engagement photography prioritizes movement, genuine expressions, and even a bit of silliness! “It makes the photo-taking process feel more like a fun experience rather than an awkward task of posing,” Farrah shared. At the end of the day, who doesn’t want proof they can be adorable, even when slightly awkward, before the main event?
Finding Your Perfect Backdrop and Outfit
When it comes to location, once again the trend is to steer away from the conventional and choose spots with emotional significance. These meaningful locations infuse the photos with genuine emotional ties and enhance their authenticity. And for what to wear? Farrah advises neutral colors to keep the focus squarely on you two. She also recommends bringing two to three outfits – one casual and one fancier – to add variety.
Feeling Comfortable in Front of the Lens
To ensure you feel natural and comfortable, Farrah has some excellent tips:
- Pick a meaningful location: As mentioned, places with sentimental value make a difference.
- Time it right: Golden hour, around sunset, creates magical lighting.
- Dress confidently and comfortably: When you feel good, it shows!
- Incorporate personal touches: Bring your beloved pets or plan an activity-based session that reflects your hobbies.
Above all, Farrah’s biggest tip is to “focus on each other and try to ‘drone out the camera,’ allowing your natural connection to shine through.”
The Timeless Value of Engagement Photos
Beyond the immediate use, Farrah passionately stresses the timeless value of engagement photos. She recommends printing and displaying them at home. “They are powerful memories to look back on for years, even decades, after your wedding,” she says. These images serve as a tangible reminder of a beautiful stage in your lives, preserving feelings of love and happiness that you can revisit again and again.
When to Book Your Session?
Post-pandemic, Farrah has seen a shift in planning timelines, with some couples eager to book their engagement sessions immediately after getting engaged, while others prefer to schedule closer to the wedding. Regardless, after securing a venue, the photographer is among the first vendors a couple chooses, highlighting the recognized importance of capturing these precious moments. To learn more about her availability and to discuss capturing your unique love story, you can contact Farrah Sanjari Photography directly! https://www.farrahsanjariphotography.com/
The Search is On…My Two Cents
When searching for either an engagement or wedding photographer (or any other vendor) remember that any service provider has a style and flair of their own. Make sure their style compliments your personality as a couple. Finally, whether its your wedding photographer or your engagement photographer (or even your baker) make sure to start looking early. Last minute searches (anything beyond 6 months) is bound to lead to disappointment from a lack in selection due to availability or spending beyond your means.
So, there you have it! Engagement photos can be a delightful prelude to the big day, a chance to get cozy with your photographer, and a sneaky way to practice your ‘we’re in love and totally not awkward’ poses. From building trust to telling your unique story, these sessions are definitely here to stay.
Nindi xoxo
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