Why Engagement Sessions Matter (And Why I Include Them In My Packages)


Planning your wedding in San Antonio or Austin? You’ve likely already discovered how many decisions go into making your dream day come to life — from venues and florals to the perfect dress and of course, your wedding photographer. One question I often get asked by couples is:


“Do we really need an engagement session?”


The short answer? Absolutely — and here’s why I believe engagement sessions are one of the most valuable parts of your wedding photography experience. In fact, it’s so important to me that I include it in all of my wedding packages for my San Antonio brides, Austin brides, and all my Texas Hill Country couples.


A romantic couple dances playfully together on green grass with trees and hedges in the background on a sunny day.

1. Building Comfort and Trust Before the Big Day


Let’s be honest — being in front of a camera can feel intimidating. Most couples have never had professional photos taken together before. An engagement session gives us the chance to work together before your wedding day, in a relaxed and fun environment.


During your engagement session, you’ll get a feel for how I work, how I pose, and how I gently guide you into natural, effortless moments. By the time your wedding arrives, you’ll feel comfortable, confident, and know exactly what to expect. This is especially helpful for my San Antonio and Austin couples who want to feel at ease in front of the camera on their big day!

Black and white intimate portrait showing a couple sitting close together in casual clothing holding hands on grass.
A couple sits together on green grass during sunset, sharing a tender moment beneath trees in golden light.

 

2. Creating Timeless Photos Beyond the Wedding Day


Your engagement session isn’t just a practice run — it’s also a chance to capture beautiful, personal images of you as a couple during such a meaningful season of your life. These images are perfect for:


  • Save-the-date cards
  • Wedding websites
  • Guest books
  • Home décor
  • Bridal showers & rehearsal dinners


Plus, with the beautiful locations we have here in San Antonio, Austin, and the Texas Hill Country — like the San Antonio Missions, Cibolo Nature Center, Zilker Park, Mount Bonnell, or even the scenic views of Concan — your engagement photos can reflect who you are as a couple in a location you love.

 

A romantic couple embraces by a serene lake at sunset, with the woman wearing a light blue ruffled dress.

3. A Low-Stress Experience That Helps Your Timeline


One of the biggest benefits of having an engagement session is the way it helps us build a connection. On your wedding day, you’ll feel like you’re being photographed by a friend who knows you, your relationship, and your natural chemistry.


This trust allows me to move seamlessly through your wedding day portraits, making the most of your timeline, while capturing those real, candid moments you’ll treasure forever.

A couple walks together along a rocky riverbank with cliffs and greenery in the background.
A romantic couple embraces on a rocky riverbank surrounded by lush greenery on a sunny afternoon.

 

4. Why I Include Engagement Sessions in My Wedding Photography Packages


Because I truly believe in the value of engagement sessions, I include them in all of my full wedding packages. It’s not just about the photos (although you’ll love those too!) — it’s about starting your wedding photography experience in a way that feels personal, fun, and completely you.


Whether you’re planning a wedding in San Antonio, Austin, New Braunfels, Boerne, Dripping Springs, or the Texas Hill Country, I want you to walk into your wedding day fully prepared, fully confident, and fully excited for your photos.

 

Ready to Book Your San Antonio or Austin Engagement Session?


If you're a bride in San Antonio or Austin searching for a wedding photographer who values connection, trust, and beautiful storytelling — let’s chat! I would be honored to be part of your love story.


Click here to inquire and book your wedding date.

Professional portrait of someone wearing a black puff sleeve dress holding a camera against a beige background.
Meet the Photographer

Hey, my name is Ruth Lattimore

Hi, I’m Ruth — a wedding photographer serving San Antonio, Austin, Fredericksburg, and the Texas Hill Country. I specialize in capturing timeless, heartfelt images that feel true to you. My approach is warm, intentional, and focused on creating a seamless, stress-free experience from your engagement session to your wedding day. I believe your photos should reflect the joy, connection, and emotion of your story — with beautiful, lasting images you’ll cherish for a lifetime.