A sunlit E-shoot

I'm thrilled to be featuring Kate Robinson for the first time on the blog today. Not only is she the sweetest girl ever, she knows her way around a camera as is evident in this gorgeous sun flared engagement shoot. Unlike in other parts of the world engagement shoots aren't a common option here in New Zealand, and whilst they do seem to be slowly growing in popularity I think people are missing a lot of valid reasons for having them. Kate has put together some pointers for all you Kiwi's considering an e-shoot with your photographer. And be sure to head over and check out Kate's blog when you're done here.

From Kate: - "First off let me start by saying I BELIEVE in having engagement shoots! Now I know that they are not too popular here in little ol' NZ, but I want that to change! So these are the reasons why everyone who is engaged NEEDS to have an engagement shoot pre-wedding :)

1) Having an engagement shoot gives you a chance to be photographed in non-wedding clothes. Duh. Seems obvious.. Your wedding day photographs are an amazing record to have and of course very essential, although not really a true representation of you both as an everyday couple - unless you wear a white dress every day!
2) It gives you the opportunity to be totally creative because none of the wedding day time pressure is there. You could have your photos somewhere unexpected or even consider bringing props like balloons, flowers, vintage bikes, lollypops, armchairs etc etc . It's great to have photographs somewhere completely different to where you are having them on the wedding day. Think of something/somewhere that represents you as a couple or has meaning to you both.
3) This is a FANTASTIC opportunity to connect with your photographer and get to know exactly what to expect from your big day. The last thing you want to worry about is the photographs! This is especially great for the guys, so they know there is nothing to be nervous about. Relaxed Bride & Groom = Better photographs :)