Are you planning an engagement shoot?

Anyone who knows me well, (Claire here BTW!), knows I'm really, really not into PDAs. I think our wedding day will be the first time most of our friends will ever see Mark and I kiss, or even hold hands (and we've been together eight years).

So, when we got engaged, I was a bit reluctant about the idea of an engagement shoot.

I love the idea of having fun, cool, and candid shots of us together in our normal clothes, and capturing a time in our lives that's so exciting, but the thing is, lots of engagement shoots are, well, a bit cheesey.

Photo by Terra Rothman Photography via Bridal Musings

Here at Bridal Musings, we're so lucky to feature some of the most unique, chic, and creative engagement shoots on the planet, but, as with boudoir shoots, engagement sessions can be tough to get right.

Most photographers will have an arsenal of perfect poses up their sleeves, but for some couples, the shots turn out as a series of intense stares, awkward kisses and unflattering hugging snaps.

It's okay to be loved-up and clichéd (you're getting married!) but you're not going to want to put a snap of you making out, on your save the dates!

So to ensure your shoot is relaxed, romantic and totally gorgeous, pin a few of these sweet pics to have in your bag before you get in front of the camera...

1. A Stylish Statement

Photo by Peter & Veronika via Bridal Musings

2. Pet's Picnic

Photo by Peter & Veronika via Bridal Musings

3. Take a Stroll

Photo by Chaz Cruz via Bridal Musings

4. Book a Booth

Photo by Chaz Cruz via Bridal Musings

5. The Subtle Ring Shot

Photo by En Route Photography via Bridal Musings

6. Big Smiles

Photo by En Route Photography via Bridal Musings

7. Keep It Real

Photo by Adrienne Gunde Photography

8. Be Cool

Photo by Stefano Santucci via Bridal Musings

9. Talk to the Hand

Photo by High Five For Love via Bridal Musings

10. Protective Arm

Photo by Kallima Photography via Bridal Musings

11. Sweet Nothings

Photo by Maria Longhi Photography via Bridal Musings

12. Pillow Fight

Photo by Olive Photography via Bridal Musings

Such a cool idea for couples who want to

13. Lazy Day on the Couch

Photo by Olive Photography via Bridal Musings

14. Back To Front

Photo by Kristen Booth via Bridal Musings

15. Chin Chin

Photo by Brittany Lauren Photography via Bridal Musings

16. Cute Kisses

Photo by Lori Kennedy Photography via Bridal Musings

17. On The Wall

Photo by Terra Rothman Photography via Bridal Musings

18. Pop a Cork

Photo by Terra Rothman Photography via Bridal Musings

19. Cold Weather Cuddles

Photo by Clarence Chan Photography via Bridal Musings

20. Snow Day

Photo by Clarence Chan Photography via Bridal Musings

21. Take a Twirl

Photo by Stefano Santucci Studio via Bridal Musings

22. Fix His Tie

Photo by Stefano Santucci Studio via Bridal Musings

23. Walk The Dogs

Photo by Ashley Ludaescher Photography via Bridal Musings

24. Photobooth Fun

Photo by Sarah Kathleen Photography via Bridal Musings

25. All Scream for Ice-Cream

Photo by Sarah Kathleen Photography via Bridal Musings

So many great engagement shoot ideas, right? The one thing I noticed in every shot though, is how the couples are smiling - it makes even the most shamefully loved-up pic, really sweet!

It's so important to be have fun and trust in your photographer during your engagement session, so it's good to have a few ideas and some inspiration to prep in advance and help you relax.

Maybe even we'll opt for an engagement shoot after all, even if it's just to learn to loosen up in front of our photographers ahead of the big day - I'll keep you posted!

Be inspired by more gorgeous Engagement Shoots.