Raleigh Engagement Photography
Getting Comfortable in Front of the Camera
Today, engagement photography has become a staple in the wedding planning process. Some people call it a “trend,” and I think of a “trend” as a negative. With engagement portraits, it is taking your wedding photos to a new level. This portrait session allows you and your fiance to prepare for your wedding portraits properly. Most couples rarely have a photoshoot together outside of their wedding day. Having your wedding photographer helping you become relaxed in front of the camera, working on posing, and you get to see first hand how your photographer works. Raleigh engagement photography has no limits. I have had couples keep their portrait session as simple as a walk through the park and others shooting in three locations over a whole day.
Being Creative With Your Engagement Session
As with most of my work, I like being creative whenever possible. While wedding photographs can have a formal feel to them, engagement portraits have more freedom and creativity. You can choose your wardrobe and locations(s). You can be casual or dressy. These are one-on-one portraits without all your guests and wedding party present. I tell my couples to choose a place that is significant to their relationship and then be yourselves. I use the engagement session as a learning experience for couples. First to help couples who have problems posing and second to help get rid of the camera or photography jitters. It is a mini glimpse into how the wedding day will be for you and your fiancé. Another perk from the engagement portrait session is that you have images to use for your save the date’s, wedding sign-in book, or to display at the reception.
Pets & Engagement Session Tips
Bringing your dog or other pet to the engagement session is always great for portraits. Things you should consider when including your pet in your portrait session:
- Tell your photographer! While a photographer should be ready for anything, it is best to give them a heads up.
- Make sure your shooting location allows for pets. Some Raleigh parks and gardens don’t allow pets.
- Bring a wrangler! Make sure to bring a friend or family member to help with your pet during the session. Your pet probably won’t last the whole time. It’s best to have them at the start of the shoot and then have someone take them home. While wrestling a pet with your fiancé will make for some exciting images after about thirty minutes it can be exhausting.
- Bring Treats!
- Let’s be honest; when I say pets, I am talking about your dog. I have never had anyone bring a cat or a bird to their engagement portrait session. If someone wanted to, I would be all for it.

Some of my favorite Raleigh engagement photography spots:




























Thank you for visiting my engagement portrait page. If you would like to see more portraits follow these two links:
Bridal Portraits
Wedding Photography
If you have questions about your engagement session, please feel free to contact me.
Phone: (919)495-5916
Email: Chris@nietophotography.com