Don’t get me wrong, I LOVE being a part of several weddings a year! That’s 15 or so First Looks that I adore and more than a dozen first dance and written, personalized vows. Nearly 20 grooms who get big smiles or damp eyes when they see their bride walking toward them and nearly 20 delicious cakes and gorgeous rings. Touching speeches and fun on the dance floor and all those beautiful blooms!
But. I *might* love engagement sessions even more!

In fact, that’s a major reason why a complimentary engagement session is included in all of my wedding packages.

Engagement sessions are an opportunity for your true style, likes and dislikes, hobbies and interests, special locations and memories to all shine through, front and center. It’s a chance to really capture the two of you in a more laidback and informal way, with comfy clothes and an entire evening of fun. By the time we’re done with our two or three hours together, I know the name of your puppy, your son’s birthday and things that will help me at your wedding and future sessions — your insecurities, the way to make your fiancé smile in a really relaxed way, little DIY touches your doing for your ceremony, your family dynamics and your favorite images.

I love that my engagement sessions are an opportunity to really tell your story — your love story.

Ben and Megan love doing things together outside, so it was only natural that we spent their engagement session on his family farm and near the creek where he proposed.

MaryAnna and Ian are very old-school with some fantastic vintage wedding touches and appreciation, so their session began at an Art Deco ice cream parlor and ended at the resort where they’ll be getting married next month.

I could go on and on, but basically, engagement sessions are incredible! You’ll know me and I’ll understand you and we’ll have some fantastic images to compliment your wedding gallery.

I love when I see family member or friend comment that a couple’s engagement session really captured who they are as an individual and as a couple. That’s what it’s all about!

Things to expect with a Wendy Zook Photography engagement session:

– I usually recommend doing these either at the same or similar type of year, foliage, etc, as your wedding so that there’s some cohesiveness, especially when we are dealing with snow, Autumn leaves and other obvious backdrops.

– These sessions are usually 2-3 hours, with about three outfit changes (at least one casual/”normal” one so it seems “you”) and at locations of your choosing — nearby park, favorite hangout, wedding venue, etc.

– We can use as many or as few props as you like. The majority of my sessions are a lifestyle approach, meaning lots of natural light and “real” moments, but I have several rustic signs from one of my favorite vendors, Samantha of The Dusty Daisy Shop. Food can be a prop — I loved shooting Andrew and Gina through the windows or a coffee cup on a cold wintry evening. Clothes can be a prop, too, like when Heather and John donned their opposing NFL team jerseys for a mock football match during their session.

Looking forward to more love stories!