Francesca & Kal – Engagement Session in the Heart of Manchester
Let me just say it – I love engagement sessions. No pressure, no guests waiting, no timeline chasing. Just two people, a camera, and space to be yourselves. That’s exactly what Francesca and Kal brought to their session in Manchester: zero stress, plenty of laughs, and a solid dose of style.
WHY ENGAGEMENT SESSION JUST HIT DIFFERENT
I’m a huge fan of engagement sessions. No pressure, no timelines, no guests watching. Just the two of you, moving through a space that feels right, and me tagging along with a camera.
Francesca and Kal came in with no expectations – just good energy, relaxed vibes, and trust. And that’s honestly all it takes. These kinds of sessions are the perfect way to get comfortable in front of the lens and actually enjoy being photographed.
How It All Unfolded
We wandered through some of my favourite city spots – streets with character, light bouncing off glass and stone, that perfect mix of grit and charm. The kind of Manchester backdrop that makes everything feel a bit more cinematic without trying too hard.
At some point, we ducked into Maray Restaurant on Brazennose Street – accidentally brilliant. Not only did it become the scene for a quick outfit change, but the interior had such a great vibe! Friendly staff, gorgeous lighting, and food smells that made us all consider ditching the camera and grabbing dinner 🙃 Highly recommend.
What I Loved About This Session
Francesca and Kal had fun. They weren’t worried about the “perfect” pose or smiling the “right” way. That’s the magic. They trusted the process – and honestly, that’s where the best photos come from. We played with movement, shadows, reflections, and just let the city guide us.
Outfit Changes = Big WIN
Packing a second look might sound like a small detail, but it makes a massive difference. It adds variety to your gallery, resets the vibe, and gives you a little mid-session boost. It gave the photos a second act and totally refreshed the whole experience .
Francesca & Kal nailed it – the change felt effortless and gave the session a whole new layer.
AND JUST SO YOU KNOW…
You don’t need to know how to pose – just how to laugh at each other.
So... Should You Do an Engagement Session?
SHORT ANSWER? YES
Long answer? Also yes – and here’s why:
It’s your trial run. Get used to being in front of the camera before the wedding day. Learn how you move, how I shoot, and shake off those “I’m awkward” feelings (spoiler: everyone thinks that – until we start shooting).
You get a set of beautiful, relaxed photos that aren’t in wedding attire – great for invites, your wedding website, or just to have.
It’s a date. Literally. You hang out, explore, laugh, and get cool photos out of it. Win-win.
A Few Tips Before Your Engagement Session:
* Wear something that feels like you – but elevated. Casual works. Matching doesn’t.
* Bring a second outfit if you can – it gives variety and lets us switch up the mood mid-session.
* Don’t overthink it. The more relaxed you are, the better it goes.
* Plan it like a mini adventure. Pick locations that mean something or just look incredible. Need ideas? I got you 👇
Also – just so you know – while you’re thinking about outfits and locations, I’ll be showing up with my beautiful PRIMO in hand. It’s my favorite camera on the planet and kind of my creative sidekick. It won’t say much, but it will capture you exactly how you are (with a bit of that cinematic magic I love).
My Go-To Spots for Engagement Shoots Around Manchester
Every couple is different, so locations should reflect your vibe. Here are a few of my go-tos:
Castlefield – for that industrial, textured city feel
Northern Quarter – colourful walls, backstreets, unexpected beauty
Saddleworth Moor – raw, windy, dramatic (in the best way)
Chorlton Water Park – trees, water, soft light
Heaton Park – nature without leaving the city
City or countryside, we’ll find something that fits you.
FYI: Engagement Sessions Are Included in My Full Day Coverage Package
Yep. No extra cost, just part of the deal.
I truly believe that having a session together before the wedding day makes everything easier, smoother and way more fun. You get used to me, I get a feel for how you move together, and PRIMO gets to do its thing before the big day.
But if you're not booking a wedding package and still want an engagement session?
You totally can. Standalone sessions are available for £350.
WANNA SEE WHAT LOVE IN THE CITY LOOKS LIKE?
Scroll down for a glimpse of what it looked like when two brilliant humans walked through the city with zero pressure and let the day take the lead.
Ready To Plan YOURS ?
Whether it's in the middle of the city, deep in the woods, or somewhere totally unexpected – I’d love to create something with you.
📩 MESSAGE ME HERE
Let’s make it relaxed, real, and honestly... fun.