What to think about before you say “cheese!”

By Jennifer Giuliano

Many couples choose to have engagement photos taken, whether it’s for the Save-the-Dates, a newspaper announcement, your wedding website, or simply to have a record of the engagement. How you choose the photographer is similar to choosing any vendor, but here are some tips to get you started.

Decide how formal you want the photographs. Do you want a simple portrait of the two of you, or are you looking for a full photo shoot on location? A formal portrait can be done through many photography studios, but can feel very impersonal.

Use your wedding photographer for your photo shoot. If you’re looking for a full-fledged photo shoot of the two of you, then check with your wedding photographer. The engagement session may be part of a package deal, or can be added to your existing package. This gives you the opportunity to get to know your photographer before your wedding day, and how he or she interacts with you. It also gives you the chance to add personal details, like your furry, feathered or other animal friends.

Ask a friend. If you’re a couple on a strict budget, or you’ve got friends with artistic talent, perhaps a friend can handle the duties. Depending on what you want the photos for, many amateur photographers will offer their expertise as a wedding or engagement gift.

No matter what you choose, do your homework. Ask to see a portfolio of work or look through their website. Make sure you’ve asked all your questions before you sign a contract. And then, get ready to say “cheese!”