If you are anything like me and fall under the category of “I hate seeing pictures of myself” or “posing for pictures is the bane of my existence,” then engagement photos are probably not high on your list of priorities. Lots of times, they are covered in your wedding photography package for free and come in handy for wedding websites (but I'm guessing if you are reading this, you may not be the wedding website type, either), so despite how uncomfortable they make you feel, you may be glad you took them. Here are some engagement shoot tips for the weary.

1. Don't Take Them too Seriously

If you two are a lighthearted couple, then let your pictures be lighthearted. There are no steadfast rules when it comes to engagement pictures, so feel free to break any preconceived notions you may have had. Your pictures should show off your personality.

2. Take Them Doing Something You Both Love

If posing for pictures on the beach at sunset or in a park doesn't seem like your thing, then don't do it. Let your photos be a reflection of you and the things you enjoy most as a couple. If skydiving is your jam, then get daring and go for it! Maybe dressing up like Luke Skywalker and Princess Leia is more up your alley, and so you book a shoot at Comic-Con. If Netflix and chill is always on your to-do list, then have the photographer snap pictures of you two being cozy at home.

3. Don't Take Them at All

This is a wedding between the two of you. That being said, don't do anything you don't want to do. If engagement photos cost extra and you'd rather spend the money elsewhere, then by all means, do so. Use candid shots from over the years instead of professional ones for the wedding if you need them. If an engagement session is included, you may be able to negotiate with the photographer to get an album of your wedding photos instead. You have options. So, if you really hate the idea of engagement pictures, then to hell with 'em!

This article was written by Raquel Kelley for Brides.com.
Photo: Details Nashville