a wedding ceremony sign at Hiwinui wedding venue in Manawatu

How Much Engagement Shoots Cost in New Zealand

an intimate elopement shoot

Why you should do an engagement photoshoot 

Are you still deciding whether you will do an engagement shoot or not? We are here to help you arrive at a decision that you will be ecstatic about.

It is understandable that many couples are camera shy and can’t seem to relax in front of a photographer that they haven’t known for long. Engagement shoots are not only a great way to serve as a practice for your wedding day, but you can also get stunning portraits you can cherish for years. You can also get to know your photographer more so you can feel more comfortable with them come your wedding day. It really is a great opportunity for both you and the photographers to establish a connection with each other. At the end of the engagement shoot, you will realize that photoshoots really aren’t that scary - they are actually quite enjoyable!

The Outfit and The Location 

Engagement photoshoot sessions are centered on you and your love story, and how to capture it in an elegant manner. The most basic thing to do is choose a location and activities that are meaningful and personal to you and your partner to get the best photos. Doing this will also make the whole session genuine and full of love. Your photographer/s are sure to follow you wherever you go - whether it is a beach on a remote island, a helicopter ride to a mountain peak, or even on the streets touring around the country. Engagement sessions are also a great chance to go to locations you won’t be able to visit on your wedding day. Always choose a time with the best lighting for your photoshoot session. The best light or as we call it the “Golden Hour” is usually during sunrise and sunset - be sure to schedule and shoot around this time.

Wear outfits that are also meaningful and personal to you - clothes that reflect your style and personality. These clothes should also be comfortable to be in especially if you choose to have an adventure themed engagement shoot. It is also recommended to bring extra outfits. Your engagement is also the perfect time to do a makeup trial. Having your make up done on your wedding day and finding out that it doesn’t suit you would be a disaster! So it is better to know if there should be any adjustments that need to be made as early as possible. Additionally, having your makeup done professionally for your session can help boost your confidence and will definitely look great on your photos.

Engagement Shoot Pricing (2,3,4,5,6)

Engagement shoots can cost from 1000$ to 8700$. This includes:

  • 2-10 hours of session time with the photographers
  • 1 or more photographers
  • Fully edited high-resolution images
  • Travel Fee for the photographers

You should also set a budget for other necessities such as:

  • Dress and Tux: ~ 950$
  • Hair and Makeup: 100$ - 400$ 
  • Car Rental: 9$ - 40$ per day 
  • Engagement shoot Venue
  • Airplane Tickets
  • Accommodation for your whole stay

 

You may have realized by now that engagement shoots are not just about having stunning views for backdrops and amazing photographers. Engagement shoots take more planning than you might think.

 

References: 

  1. https://www.wildandgrace.nz/engagementsession/
  2. https://www.brydonphotography.nz/pricing-1
  3. http://elisecreative.co.nz/pricing/
  4. https://www.moneyhub.co.nz/top-10-auckland-wedding-photographers.html
  5. https://www.jessicaphotography.co.nz/pricing/ 
  6. https://www.kayak.com/New-Zealand-Car-Rentals.177.crc.html