Engagement Photo Shoot Tips From A Wedding Photographer

If you've never had professional photos taken before, the thought of having an engagement shoot might be a little intimidating. But it's the perfect opportunity to learn how to pose with your partner, get a feel for how your photographer works, and most importantly, get some incredible pre-wedding shots in locations that are meaningful to you.

"Think of it as the best rehearsal possible for your big day," says Kayla Rocca, a Toronto-based wedding photographer. "It's probably one of the only times you'll have professional photography taken of both of you as a couple--besides your wedding day, of course," she adds.

Expect to set aside about two hours for your engagement shoot, depending on how many locations you have. Rocca suggests having your engagement shoot about six to eight months prior to your wedding to allow for plenty of time to use the photos on your wedding website or in a slideshow.

We asked Rocca for some helpful advice on how to make the most of an engagement shoot. She brought us along on her most recent engagement shoot with couple Mike and Kyla at Streetsville Memorial Park in Mississauga, Ontario to show us her top tips in action.

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