8 tips for a cringe-free engagement photoshoot

You’re engaged - hooray!  Let’s commemorate this amazing moment with some relaxed, fun, and beautiful photos that feel like you. 

Whether you're excited to jump in or feeling a little camera-shy, these tips will help you get the most out of your engagement shoot - and avoid the awkward, overly posed stuff that no one really wants.

And keep reading for details on an exciting giveaway too…

Why engagement shoots are so great

Not everyone is used to being in front of the camera - and that’s totally normal. Most of us don’t get professional photos taken very often (if ever), and the idea can feel a bit nerve-wracking. That’s where engagement shoots come in.

Engagement shoots are:

• A chance to get used to the camera before the big day, with less pressure

• A chance to get used to your wedding photographer too

• A way to figure out what kind of photos and poses you like

• A confidence boost for engaged couples who are feeling unsure

• Just a really lovely experience - fun, low-key, and memorable

As a professional wedding photographer, I’ve found that couples who have had an engagement shoot are often braver, more relaxed, and more confident on their wedding day. They know what feels good, what doesn’t, and have already had a laugh together in front of the camera.

Plus, you’ll have some gorgeous, less formal photos of you as a couple - not in full wedding gear, just being yourselves.

How I keep your engagement photoshoot fun (and not awkward)

Some people absolutely LOVE having their photo taken, and get into an engagement shoot with ease - spinning their partner round and jumping on shoulders, and generally having a really fun time. 

If that’s totally not you, here are a few ways I help couples feel more relaxed on an engagement photoshoot:

1. Ease into the engagement shoot with a coffee first

I always start my engagement shoots with a coffee and a chat, so that we can get to know each other and feel comfortable together before launching into taking any photos. 

We’ll then walk to the shoot location together, talk about anything and everything, and slowly ease into the session. You don’t need to perform - just be yourselves.

2. Play the memory game

At engagement photoshoots, I often ask each person to quietly think of a shared memory that makes them laugh or feel really good - without telling the other. I give them a few minutes to just stand there, in the moment, thinking about that memory, while I take a few photos.

Then I ask them to share those memories with each other - and that’s when the real magic happens. It creates a special moment that feels like theirs, and gorgeous reactions happen naturally, creating beautiful photos. 

I always find this is a great icebreaker at the beginning of an engagement shoot. 

3. Skip the stiff poses

Of course I’ll suggest how to stand or what might look lovely in your engagement photos, but if it doesn’t feel right for you, we don’t do it. This isn’t about forcing awkward poses, it’s about moving around, connection, and whatever feels good to you as a couple.

There’s no “stand there, put your arm here, look at me” vibe. I’d much rather you feel relaxed and just be together.

4. Get silly with it (if you want!)

Depending on the couple, I’ve been known to hum the Jaws theme tune or crack a few awful jokes (I try not to overdo it - they’re really not that good). But a bit of silliness can go a long way in helping you loosen up for your engagement shoot.

5. Bring the dog along

Getting your pet involved in your engagement photoshoot is not only adorable, it also helps you relax. Focusing on your furry friend can take the pressure off, and bring even more natural moments into the photoshoot.

How you can get the most out of your engagement shoot

As a professional photographer, there are a few things I really appreciate my clients thinking about when it comes to an engagement photoshoot, and these extra tips will help you make the most of your session and get the best photos. 

1. Check your outfits well before photoshoot day

We always want to look our best when having our photo taken, but make sure you’re also wearing something you feel great in, that really feels like you. 

These photos will capture a really important moment in your life, so check for stains, wrinkles, or tags sticking out too - get your partner to help with this, as they can see you from all angles.

2. Match each other’s vibe

Make sure your outfits work together too. You don’t have to match exactly, but if one of you is in formalwear and the other is in jeans and a tee, it might feel a bit off in the photos.

Ahead of the day of the engagement shoot, pop your outfits on and stand in the mirror next to each other - how does it look?

3. Trust the process & your photographer

Let go of any pressure to perform or pose a certain way - the best photos happen when you’re just having fun and being yourselves. And remember that your photographer is a professional, and will know what they’re doing when it comes to an engagement shoot - even if they’re not me 😉 

A super exciting engagement shoot giveaway!

Because I love doing engagement photoshoots so much - and I really believe they help couples feel more confident - I’m running a competition to win a free engagement shoot (within half an hour's drive of Bath) over on Instagram.

All you need to do is head over to my Instagram post, follow me, like the post, and tag a friend. Easy peasy.

As an added bonus, everyone who enters gets 10% off any wedding package booked for 2026, so what are you waiting for? 

Let’s capture the good stuff

And finally, your engagement is such a special time - full of excitement, love, and anticipation. These photos are a perfect way to remember what this time felt like. So let’s make it fun, easy, and totally you.

If you're reading this post-competition and are thinking about booking a shoot, or want to chat more about how it works, I'd love to hear from you - head over to my contact page to get in touch.