Clients Avoid Payment for Posed Photoshoot Sessions: An Explanation

In the world of wedding photography, engagement portraits are proving to be a valuable selling point for many photographers. This is especially true for one photographer, who has found success in creating a unique and personalised experience for their clients.

By including engagement portraits in their wedding packages, this photographer aims to help clients feel more relaxed on their big day, resulting in better photographs. The approach seems to be working, as most clients are willing to embrace adventures during their engagement shoot.

The photographer's style is artful documentary, focusing on capturing 'the moment' rather than just beautiful portraits. They prefer to take clients to locations that hold personal significance to them, such as the place they first met, their first date location, or favourite coffee shop.

One such adventure was scheduled during a rainy day, but the clients were up for it. Fortunately, the rain stopped just before the photo shoot, leaving shiny streets and beautiful light. The photographer values these moments, as they often lead to capturing genuine emotions and creating lasting memories.

The engagement session also serves as a chance for the photographer to understand how to make clients look their best and feel comfortable with the camera. This understanding translates into better photographs during the wedding day.

Including the engagement portrait session in the wedding package can make potential clients feel like they are getting added value, especially considering the expense of weddings. Sharing these engagement portraits online or with 'save the date' cards can serve as word-of-mouth advertising for the photographer.

Interestingly, the photographer included engagement portraits 18 years after their wedding photography, even though they were free. However, there is no information in the search results explaining why Dorie Hagler decided to do so.

Perhaps one of the most exciting outcomes of engagement portrait sessions is the potential for additional bookings. Positive feedback from the initial session often leads to more bookings, solidifying the photographer's reputation and expanding their client base.

In some cases, clients who submit their engagement portraits to the NY Times Wedding Announcements have had them published. This recognition adds to the photographer's credibility and attracts more potential clients.

In summary, engagement portraits offer numerous benefits for both photographers and clients. They provide an opportunity for clients to feel more relaxed, help photographers understand how to make clients look their best, and serve as a valuable marketing tool. For this photographer, the focus remains on creating a fun, loving atmosphere and capturing those special moments that make each engagement session unique.