Pre-wedding Photoshoot – do you need one?

As part of my full-day wedding packages I currently include a pre-wedding photoshoot. For some couples this is a must-have but some are unsure why you might want one.  So, if you are a little unsure of what a pre wedding shoot is and why you might want one, let me tell you a little bit more about what a pre-wedding photo shoot is and their benefits.

What is a pre-wedding photoshoot?

A pre-wedding photoshoot is a shoot that takes place prior to your wedding.  

Do we meed one? 

The short answer is, No.  But, there are lots of benefits attached to having one. The benefits include:

1) giving you the chance to get comfortable in front of the camera. This is particularly useful if you are feeling a little anxious about being photographed on your wedding day. 

2) capturing some beautiful photographs of the two of you. The chances are that you probably don’t have many photos which include both of you unless they are selfies! 

3) obtaining photos that can be used on save-the-date cards, orders of service or simply just as a lovely memory and keepsake.

4)  Not only will your receive some beautiful images we will get to know each better. The more familiar you are with your photographer, the more relaxed you’ll feel on the day. You’ll already have a good idea of how they work, what to expect during a shoot and just generally know them a bit better after a couple of hours chat and walk around one of your favourite places.

When is the best time to have a pre-wedding photoshoot?

Ideally, you want to have your pre-wedding photoshoot at least 6 weeks before the wedding before you start getting too busy with the last-minute wedding preparations. Many of my couples  choose to have their shoot a whole year ahead of their wedding so that their pre-wedding photographs are the perfect compliment to their wedding photographs. This could be very useful if you would like to have your pre-wedding photoshoot at your wedding venue and want to see what the grounds are likely to look like when it comes to the wedding day itself.

Making the most of your pre-wedding photoshoot

1) Choose the right location

All of my pre-wedding photoshoots take place in the beautiful outdoors. We often head to the wedding venue itself (if possible) to check out the backdrops that you may want to make the most of on your wedding day. Alternatively, I would advise heading somewhere that means something to you – maybe a local woodland or beauty spot. 

2) Think about your outfit

You can wear whatever you like but the key is that you should feel comfortable. You want to be able to relax during your shoot so don’t wear anything that you feel self-conscious in. Busy prints should be avoided as they can look dated moving forward so the best idea is to keep it classic and simple. Finally, think about how the outfits will work together. Try and choose complimentary colours. 

3) Don’t be afraid to suggest interesting ideas or backdrops

During my pre-wed shoots I am constantly looking for unique angles and pretty backdrops as well as reading the light to see what images might work well. I am always happy for my couples to point out places where they would like to take their photos. Maybe you’ve been drawn to a nice bench or an interesting tree. Don’t be afraid to point things out and I will do my best to incorporate it into a shot.

4) Inject your personality into the shoot

If you want to include your kids or your dog or your camper-van – go for it! This is your session. Theres no right or wrong way to go about it. This also goes for public displays of affection! I always encourage a bit of hand-holding and the occasional kiss  – do what you feel comfortable with! I often do these sessions using my favourite lens a 70-200mm normally at 200mm, that means I am fair distance from you so if you having a chat –  telling each other how  awesome you look, I am not listening honest! I am usually trying not to fall into a bush and concentrating on getting the shot!  A pre-wedding shoot is the perfect opportunity to capture you as a couple so if that means pulling silly faces, playing leapfrog or having a water-pistol fight rather than gazing lovingly into each-others eyes then go for it! 

Of course, all of this applies to any outdoor photoshoots in general and not just specifically to pre-wedding shoots so if you are interested in commissioning a shoot for you, your other half to your family then please get in touch for a chat about your plans.