Why You Should Have a Pre-Wedding Photoshoot Before Your Wedding

A pre-wedding photoshoot is not only about having beautiful photos — it’s also an opportunity to practice in front of the camera, get to know your photographer, and feel more relaxed before the big day. Plus, you will have a set of beautiful photos to celebrate this so special time when being engaged.

What is a pre-wedding photoshoot

A pre-wedding photoshoot, also usually called engagement shoot, is a relaxed photo session with engaged couple and their photographer which is planned before a wedding day. This is a great way for the couple to get to know the photographer, build a strong connection between each other, and practice in front of the camera.

When to schedule your pre-wedding photoshoot

Schedule your pre-wedding photoshoot ideally between 3 and 6 months before your wedding. This will allow time for your photographer for editing and to create a beautiful photo gallery before a wedding for you to enjoy. Some couples loves using their pre-wedding photos for wedding materials like guestbooks, photo frames or even table decorations. However, it can be also scheduled soon after getting engaged to celebrate the excitement.

Benefits of engagement shoot

Engagement shoot offers many benefits for both the couple and the photographer. Building connection and trust, being comfortable in front of camera, celebrate and enjoy this so wonderful time being  engaged.

Get to know your photographer

Wedding photographer is a person you will spend most of the time on a wedding day and it is important to feel comfortable with a person you trust to capture your wedding. During a pre-wedding photoshoot you will have opportunity to connect and to get to know your photographer and build this trust. This makes a wedding day photography experience much less stressful and more relaxed.

Learn to feel relaxed during your session

Not everyone feels comfortable in front of the camera. During this session your photographer will guide you, helping you relax and be yourself in front of the camera.

Showing your personal style

A well-planned pre-wedding photoshoot gives you the opportunity to show your personal style and personalities. You can choose your favourite locations, outfits, and themes that compliment with you as a couple, creating photos that truly shows your who you are.

Reduce pre-wedding stress

Planning a wedding can be stressful, but this engagement session is a great way to take a break from all the chaos to reduce pre-wedding stress. This is time when you just relax, enjoy each other’s company, and enjoy the love you share.

Memories captured to be cherished

A pre-wedding photos document your love and connection between each other, creating memories that can be cherished for generations to come. They tell your love story in the most beautiful way and can be shared with family in the years to come.

How to make the most of your photoshoot

To make the most of your photoshoot, planning and communication with your photographer is a key. Starting from choosing the right location, creating a mood board, choosing your outfits and finally considering of the best time of day for beautiful lightning. All these details will help you to feel confident in front of the camera and achieve stunning, memorable photos you have had planned.

Choose a right location

Choose a right location that is close to your hearts. Maybe where you had your first date, where you got engaged or a beautiful manor house surrounded by stunning flower gardens. Let your pre-wedding photoshoot locations reflect who you are as a couple.

Think of outfits

Your outfits can make a big difference in your photos, so choose them wisely. Here is how to choose.

Show your style:

Pick clothes that show your personality rather than just following the latest trends.

Complement a location:

For locations like gardens and parks, choose outfits that compliment with the surroundings. Flowy dresses or slightly more formal attire work beautifully. Neutral tones—such as beige, soft pastels, or earthy shades tend to look more flattering than bold, bright colours.

Comfort is a key:

Choose outfits that feel comfortable, let you move easily, and make you feel beautiful and shine in the photos.

Layer and accessorise:

Adding some simple layers like jackets, cardigans and adding some small accessories can make your photos more interesting.

Real couple inspiration

Browse a small selection of real engagement photos that showcase real emotions, relaxed and natural poses, and beautiful storytelling. Perfect for couples looking for ideas for their own photoshoot experience.

 Get inspired by Chloe & Brian’s Chiswick House and Gardens picnic engagement photoshoot here. 

Pre-wedding photoshoot inspiration

Looking for some ideas for your pre-wedding photoshoot? Check out my curated Pinterest mood board featuring romantic, natural yet relaxed poses, outfit combinations, and locations to open your imagination. View the mood board on Pinterest here. 

 

Thinking about booking your engagement session? Fill out the inquiry form here and let’s connect to start planning your session.