Where can we have an engagement shoot in Liverpool?

Engagement shoots can take place at a variety of beautiful Liverpool locations within 10 miles, including Sefton Park, Calderstones Park, Crosby Beach, Formby Beach, St George's Hall, and Albert Dock.

Can we use our engagement photos for wedding invites or table displays?

Yes. All engagement photos are downloadable and can be used for invites, table displays, or other personal wedding projects. Prints and keepsakes can also be ordered through your online gallery.

Engagement shoots in Liverpool: a relaxed way to feel comfortable before your wedding

Gemma Cullen
10 hours ago
3 min read

If the idea of an engagement shoot in Liverpool makes you feel awkward rather than excited, you’re not alone. Most couples I photograph tell me they hate having their photo taken and worry they’ll be expected to pose, perform, or “act natural” on command. As a Liverpool wedding photographer, my approach to pre-wedding shoots is relaxed, unposed, and completely pressure-free.

Couple in Formby woods laughing whilst on engagement shoot

An engagement shoot isn’t about perfect outfits or knowing what to do with your hands. It’s about getting used to being photographed in a way that feels calm and genuinely you.

What actually is an engagement shoot?

An engagement shoot (sometimes called a pre-wedding shoot) is a short, relaxed photo session before your wedding day. There’s no stiff posing and no forced moments. We’ll usually go for a walk, have a chat, and let things unfold naturally while I quietly document the real interactions between you.

For couples who feel nervous about photos, it’s a chance to:

see how I work
realise you don’t need to “perform”
feel more comfortable in front of the camera
arrive on your wedding day knowing exactly what to expect

Many couples say it feels more like a walk than a photoshoot, which is very much the point.

Couple kissing in Calderstones Park in Liverpool whilst on engagement shoot

Where do engagement shoots take place?

Engagement shoots usually take place within 10 miles of Liverpool, using locations that feel natural rather than overly posed or formal. We’ll always choose somewhere that suits you, but popular options include:

Sefton Park – greenery, open space, and relaxed walking routes
Calderstones Park – quieter, leafy, and great for low-key shoots
Crosby Beach – open skies, movement, and space to breathe
Formby Beach – dunes, long walks, and fewer distractions
St George’s Hall – architectural backdrops without forced posing
Albert Dock – urban textures with room to keep things natural

If you have somewhere meaningful to you, we can use that instead. The location matters far less than how comfortable you feel in it.

What if we’re awkward or hate posing?

That’s honestly most of my couples.

You don’t need to know how to pose, where to stand, or what to do. I’ll gently guide you if needed, but mostly I’ll let things happen as they are. No awkward instructions. No staged moments. No pretending you’re someone else.

Couple at Formby beach kissing whilst on engagement shoot

This is exactly the same approach I take on your wedding day, which is why engagement shoots are so useful. They remove the unknown.

Take a look at a blog post I wrote about how to look natural in your wedding photos.

As well as helping you feel more relaxed on your wedding day, engagement photos can also be used in a really practical way. Many couples use their images for wedding invitations, save-the-dates, or a photo table at the reception. All engagement shoot images are delivered in the same way as your wedding photos, via a personalised online gallery where you can download everything and order prints directly if you’d like.

Are engagement shoots included in your wedding photography packages?

Yes. Engagement shoots are included in my Epic Story Wedding Photography Package, and they can also be added to other packages if you’d like.

If you’re still deciding which coverage suits your day, my wedding photography prices & packages page explains how everything works, including shorter coverage and full-day options.

Do we have to do one?

Absolutely not.

Engagement shoots are optional. Some couples love them. Some prefer to skip straight to the wedding day. There’s no pressure either way.

If you’re feeling nervous about photos, though, they’re one of the best ways to arrive on your wedding day feeling calmer, more confident, and less aware of the camera.

Pre-wedding shoot in Formby woods with couple looking at each other

Frequently asked questions about engagement shoots

Do we need an engagement shoot if we hate photos?

No. Engagement shoots are optional. They’re most helpful if you feel nervous about being photographed or want to get used to a relaxed, unposed approach before your wedding day.

How long does an engagement shoot take?

Most engagement shoots last around an hour. There’s no rushing and no pressure to perform. It’s designed to feel more like a walk than a photoshoot.

What should we wear for an engagement shoot?

Simple, comfortable clothes you feel like yourselves in always work best. I’ll share guidance beforehand so you don’t overthink it.

Can engagement shoots be added to any package?

Yes. Engagement shoots are included in the Epic Story Package and can also be added to other wedding photography packages if you’d like.

Thinking about an engagement shoot?

If you’re planning a wedding and want natural, unposed photography that doesn’t feel awkward or staged, I’d love to hear about your plans.

You can check availability or ask any questions via my contact page, and I’m always happy to help you work out whether an engagement shoot makes sense for you.