As a South Dakota wedding photographer serving Rapid City, the Black Hills, and beyond, I get this question all the time: Should we take engagement photos? My answer? A big, joyful yes. Engagement sessions aren’t just about cute photos (though you’ll get plenty of those). They’re an important step in your wedding journey — and I’m breaking down exactly why they’re completely worth it.
What Are Engagement Photos?
A Sweet Season Captured Forever
Engagement photos are a professional photo session celebrating your season of being engaged. It’s that short but magical time between saying yes and saying I do. Whether you choose to shoot in the Badlands National Park, the Black Hills, or your favorite coffee shop, these photos tell your unique love story.
Not Just Pretty Pictures
Yes, you’ll end up with beautiful images to share on social media, use for save-the-dates, and display at your wedding — but there’s much more to it than that.
5 Reasons Engagement Photos Are Totally Worth It
1. Get Comfortable In Front of the Camera
Let’s be real: most couples aren’t professional models. An engagement session is like a fun practice run before your wedding day. You’ll learn how to pose naturally, get comfortable being photographed, and feel relaxed with your photographer (that’s me!).
Many of my couples say their wedding photos turned out better because they knew what to expect after their engagement session.
2. Build Trust with Your Photographer
Your engagement session is our chance to connect before the big day. I’ll learn your best angles, your quirks, and how to make you both laugh — so when your wedding arrives, it feels like you have a friend behind the camera, not a stranger.
3. Use the Photos Everywhere
From your wedding website and save-the-dates to guest books and wall art, engagement photos have so many uses. Here are some creative ideas:
- Custom guest book featuring your engagement shots
- Wedding website header photo
- Social media countdown posts
- Prints to display at your reception
4. Celebrate Your Relationship
Planning a wedding can feel overwhelming. Taking time out for an engagement session is a reminder of why you’re doing all this — for the love you share. Make a date of it. Dress up, go out to dinner afterward, and savor the moment.
5. Adventure & Memories
Want epic Black Hills engagement photos at sunset? Dreaming of an adventure session in Badlands National Park? Your engagement session can double as an unforgettable adventure.
FAQs About Engagement Photos
Do We Have to Do Engagement Photos?
No, they’re optional. But most of my couples say they’re so glad they did. It eases nerves for the wedding day and gives you lasting memories.
When Should We Schedule Them?
Ideally, 6-8 months before your wedding, especially if you plan to use them for save-the-dates.
What Should We Wear?
I recommend outfits that feel like you but slightly elevated. Need ideas? Here’s my what to wear guide for engagement sessions.
Ready to Book Your Engagement Photos?
If you’re looking for a Rapid City engagement photographer who knows all the best spots and makes the experience feel easy and natural, let’s chat. I’d love to help you plan an engagement session that feels like you — whether that’s dancing in a field, hiking in the hills, or sipping drinks downtown.
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