5 reasons to have an engagement session


Why Engagement Sessions are a Must-Have Before Your Big Day


Engagement sessions are more than just a chance to snap a few beautiful photos—they’re a vital step in your wedding journey. Recently, I had the pleasure of capturing a couple's engagement session at Papago Park in Phoenix, a location known for its striking desert landscapes and iconic sandstone buttes. Their love story unfolded beautifully against the backdrop of golden hour lighting and Arizona’s natural charm. But why invest in an engagement session?


1. Get Comfortable in Front of the Camera

For many couples, this is their first professional photo shoot together. An engagement session helps you become more at ease in front of the lens, turning any initial nervousness into genuine confidence. When your wedding day arrives, you’ll feel relaxed and ready to shine.


2. Build Trust with Your Photographer

An engagement session is the perfect opportunity to connect with your photographer. You’ll get a sense of how they work, and they’ll learn the little things that make your relationship unique—like how they brought their husky, Taco, because they absolutely needed to include him because he is big part of their family! Or how we got the perfect shot of this couple laughing together at Papago’s iconic Hole-in-the-Rock. This rapport is key to capturing authentic, heartfelt moments on your wedding day.


3. Create Memories Beyond the Wedding Day

Your engagement is a special chapter of your love story. Photos from this session document this exciting time in your lives, giving you timeless keepsakes to cherish long after the wedding is over. Papago Park’s rugged beauty, for example, added a layer of adventure to this couple’s story—perfectly capturing their spirit as they prepare to take on life together.


4. Customized Images for Save-the-Dates and Décor

Engagement photos are not only stunning but also practical! They’re ideal for save-the-dates, wedding websites, and even reception décor. Imagine incorporating the romantic desert vibes of Papago Park into your invitations or a photo wall at your wedding. Especially if you aren't from this area which would bring a fun detail to life for your wedding guests.


5. A Moment to Celebrate Your Love

Amidst wedding planning, an engagement session offers a moment to pause, connect, and celebrate your love. It’s a chance to focus on what truly matters: each other. If you’re planning your wedding, don’t skip this meaningful step. Whether you choose the breathtaking desert scenery of Papago Park or another stunning location, an engagement session is an investment in memories you’ll treasure forever.


Thinking about an engagement session? Let’s create magic together! Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant sunsets of Arizona or have a dream destination in mind, I’d love to help tell your story.