You see them filling up your Facebook newsfeed with likes and comments everyday. They’re all over Pinterest. Engagement photos have become a rite of passage for couples today. But why? We thought we’d share a few reasons you may not have considered of why they are not only beautiful, but practical.

***

They provide a lasting snapshot of this fleeting stage of life.

Most engagements these days last two years, max. Some are only a few months. This is a stage of life that you’ll never have again: When he was your fiance, not yet your husband. When you were brimming with plans for the future that will one day become reality. It’s so special and short-lived. That’s why we encourage our couples to really personalize their engagement sessions with outfits, props, and locations that are meaningful to you. Why not capture what it’s like to go to your regular date spot or to cook your favorite meal together? These are the memories that we want to remember for years to come.

They help you get comfortable in front of the camera.

Selfies aside, most of us aren’t used to being in front of a camera. Some people feel totally comfortable being photographed, while others take longer to warm up to it. If you or your fiance are in the latter camp, then engagement photos are a great way to get used to being photographed and to get to know Chance and see how he works. It’ll give you one less thing to worry about on your wedding day.

The images can be used in your wedding in tons of practical ways.

You can make a photo book with blank pages to form a personalized guestbook for your wedding that guests will love. You can frame prints or hang canvases around your venue site, or just decorate your apartment. You can use the photos to add flair to save the dates or your wedding website. The possibilities are only as endless as your creativity!