Engagement Shoots vs Wedding Photography

The formal photos from a wedding photography shoot and the photos created during an engagement shoot are pretty similar.  They both are made to show the love between two people, usually there is a mixture of posed and candid photos.  The Main difference though is often how these photos are "used".

In my opinion, the engagement photos are for getting beautiful pieces of art to put on your wall, while the wedding photos are all about the story and the album.  Consider the following:

Wedding Photos:

• Many, many photos
• Candid, formal, location, and small details photos
• The dress style / hair styling will likely be dated in a few years
• One of the most important days of your life
• Lots of pictures of family and friends

Engagement Photos

• Less photos
• Candid and formal pictures
• Clothing / hair styles are casual and not likely to be dated in a few years
• Just a nice day spent with your love

Basically, the engagement photos make great wall art that can be hung on your wall for a long time without dating you.  Also, many couples who are about to get married may not have a lot of art on their walls and this shoot gives the opportunity to create some.  A 30X20 above your couch for instance, is a great centerpiece for a room.  Some other great uses for engagement photos are save the date cards, guest books, invitations, and  albums.

Wedding photos on the other hand are best shown in a high quality, leather bound album.  This album is the keepsake that you'll show your children and your children's children.  This doesn't mean that wall portraits are out of the question!  It is just my opinion that an album is the best way to keep your memories for a lifetime.

-Dave
Last Mountain Photography