Pre-Wedding & Engagement Photography Guide

Your engagement marks the start of a beautiful new chapter and what better way to celebrate than with a memorable engagement photoshoot? Pre-wedding sessions capture the excitement, personality, and connection between you and your partner before the big day.

Courtney Ferrante Photography, based in Tampa and St. Pete, specializes in creating engagement and pre-wedding photos that feel authentic, joyful, and deeply personal. Whether you’re into cozy sunset shots, vibrant downtown vibes, or adventurous beach sessions, I will bring your love story to life in every frame.

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1. Choose a Location That Tells Your Story

The best engagement photos are taken in places that mean something to you as a couple. Think:

• Downtown St. Pete: Chic urban backdrops and colorful murals
• Tampa Riverwalk: Romantic waterfront views and golden sunsets
• Gandy Beach: Perfect for laid-back, tropical vibes
• Your Favorite Café or Park: Cozy and intimate, capturing your everyday moments

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2. Plan Your Outfits to Match the Mood

Wardrobe plays a major role in setting the tone for your photos. Consider:

• Neutral palettes for timeless elegance
• Bold colors for fun, personality-filled shoots
• Coordinated looks without being too matchy
• Flowy dresses and casual layers for movement and texture

I provide style guidance before every session, helping couples look and feel their best while ensuring the outfits complement the chosen location and lighting.

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3. Incorporate Personal Touches

Your engagement session should feel like you. Add elements that make your shoot meaningful:

• Bring your pet (I LOVE including fur babies!)
• Incorporate your hobbies—music, motorcycles, or beach days
• Include champagne, coffee, or props that show your personality
• Choose the time of day that fits your vibe: sunrise serenity or golden-hour glow

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4. Capture a Mix of Posed and Candid Moments

The magic happens in the in-between moments laughter, stolen glances, and quiet touches. My photography approach blends both posed portraits and candid storytelling, resulting in photos that feel real, not staged. I focus on movement, emotion, and genuine connection—turning your engagement photos into cinematic memories that feel like you stepped into your own romantic film.

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5. Add an Adventure Element

Want something different? Adventure sessions make for unforgettable engagement shoots:

• Beachside picnics at sunset
• Downtown date-night recreations
• Motorbike or Jeep adventure sessions
• Concert-style shoots for music lovers

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6. Why You Shouldn’t Skip Engagement Photos

Engagement photos aren’t just beautiful keepsakes—they serve a purpose:

• Get comfortable in front of the camera before your wedding day
• Build a connection with your photographer
• Use the photos for save-the-dates, invitations, or décor
• Capture this fleeting season of excitement and anticipation

Couples who book engagement sessions with me often say it helps them feel confident and relaxed on their wedding day, making the entire experience smoother and more natural.

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7. When to Schedule Your Session

The ideal time to take engagement photos is 6–9 months before the wedding. This allows time for:

• Editing and delivery
• Using images for invitations or announcements
• Scheduling around weather and availability

Your engagement deserves to be captured with creativity, emotion, and love. Let Courtney Ferrante Photography tell your story through timeless imagery that celebrates who you are.

Contact Courtney today to book your engagement session in Tampa, St. Pete, or beyond—and start turning your love story into art.