Engagement Photographer

Geelong | Surf Coast | Bellarine

Why You Should Consider An Engagement Photoshoot

Beach Engagement Photoshoot, Geelong

An engagement photoshoot is a fun and exciting way to capture your love and commitment for each other before the big day.

You only get one chance to capture this period of excitement and joy before the wedding. Having a professional photoshoot is a great way to freeze these fleeting moments in time to look back on for the rest of your life. 

While you may ask, why should I hire an engagement photographer when I already have one for my wedding? Weddings are fast paced and full of distractions and overwhelming emotions, that you may not get to fully immerse yourself in the photoshoot. A pre-wedding photoshoot is all about you. It’s a lot more slow paced and we can spend more time getting the compositions, lighting and poses perfect.

It’s also a great way to get comfortable and confident in front of the camera before your wedding day. For many couples, their wedding may be the first time they are professionally photographed, so it’s a good practice opportunity for the big day. 

Where Do Engagement Sessions Take Place?

There are a number of options for your Engagement Photoshoot. Whether you prefer a candid and natural outdoor environment or to use one of my fine art backdrops- there are options for everyone. The options below are just a couple of examples, but I always love hearing your locations ideas too! 

Coastal Backdrop

The Surf Coast is home to some of the most picturesque beaches in the world. 

Coastal pre-wedding photoshoots are natural, candid and simply stunning. The Surf Coast boasts plenty of compositional opportunities with its majestic cliffside backdrops and coastal viewpoints. As a Surf Coast local, I have access to some of the secret spots that will ensure your photos are one-of-a-kind. 

Beach Engagement Photoshoot, Geelong
Molly and Tim's Beach Enagement Shoot

Garden Backdrop

Geelong offers a wondrous variety of beautiful gardens. 

The Geelong botanical gardens is a popular location for engagement photoshoots, with its stunning array of native and exotic plants and ornate pavilions. The gardens provide a picturesque backdrop for your photos, with plenty of secluded spots for intimate moments.

 

Wedding Photoshoot, Melbourne
Holly's Botanical Garden Bridal Shoot

Your Home

There’s no place like home. 

My studio is 100% portable, meaning I can photograph you in the comfort of you own home. I have a variety of fine art backdrops and lighting that can work with any home- no matter how big or small. If you have a nice garden or some interior decoration you’d like to show off- I can seamlessly blend in these locations with our engagement session.

 

black and white boudoir photography in Melbourne
Photoshoot Against Fine Art Backdrops

What Do I Wear For My Engagement Shoot?

Choosing outfits for your pre-wedding photoshoot can be difficult. 

The first thing to consider would be the theme of your photoshoot, which generally ties in closely with your location. If you decided on a photoshoot at the botanic gardens, then you may want to consider a feminine cocktail style dress, but if you wanted a coastal vibe, then a sheer summer dress may be a better styling option. 

You’re more than welcome to bring multiple outfits if you can’t decide on just one!

Pinterest is a great place to start to gather ideas for your styling. You can start by typing in a keyword such as ‘garden engagement photoshoot’ and pin your favourite images to work out the outfit style. Pay attention to accessories such as jewellery, baskets and hats, as these can be great stylistic elements to add to your photoshoot. 

maternity photoshoot in geelong
Sheer Dresses Work Great for Beach Photoshoots

Where Can I Buy Outfits for my Engagement Shoot?

An engagement photoshoot is a good excuse to treat yourself to a few new outfits! Depending on your budget and the outfit style you’re looking for, there are plenty of retail options out there. 

Shein is a great place to start for those looking to buy a variety of stunning outfits on a budget. Their stylistic options are huge, and while their quality isn’t always the best- for a single use photoshoot, it’s perfectly acceptable. As they are an online retailer with quality being ‘hit and miss’, ensure you make your purchases well in advance before your photoshoot in case you need to exchange sizes. I’ve personally used Shein a lot, and you can find some real hidden gems.

For those seeking something on the higher end side, perhaps an outfit that will last more than a few uses (sorry Shein), I’d recommend David Jones. They both have a great range of higher quality outfits such as dresses, blazers and heel for a to suit any budget- from affordable to high end designer. 

pre wedding photoshoot at the botanical gardens
Holly's Custom Designed Dress for her Themed Bridal Shoot

What About Hair and Make-up?

Hair and makeup is an optional extra for all my glamour photoshoots.

All women should be able to build their confidence through a glamour photoshoot with any budget, so I offer the option for you to do your own hair and makeup, or I have a list of trusted hair and makeup artists in Melbourne that I can organise for you.

My makeup artists are skilled in creating a variety of looks- from a natural glow to full glam, to ensure it blends seamlessly with my photography style. 

boudoir makeup for photoshoot in melbourne
Full Glam by makeupartisthelen.com
boudoir makeup for photoshoot in melbourne
Natural makeup by makeupartisthelen.com

How Much Will An Engagement Session Cost?

My engagement photography sessions start from $399. 

Everybody’s photoshoot is slightly different, and I aim to give you the best possible price for your unique circumstances. Depending on whether you want to treat yourself to the full suite with hair, makeup or prefer to keep it simple with DIY hair and makeup- I cater to all your needs. 

Contact me today to get your custom quote!