As your wedding day gets closer, you can almost taste the thrill and anticipation of the upcoming festivities. But before the wedding, there is a super exciting part that you can enjoy, which is your pre-wedding photoshoot!
A pre-wedding photoshoot is so much more than just a trend. Whether you envision a romantic sunset shoot on a beach, a whimsical session in a blooming garden, or an urban adventure in the city’s heart, careful planning is key to making your photoshoot a success.
AVS360 is here to walk you through every step of planning the perfect photoshoot right before your wedding. Read on to find all the answers!
Let’s dive in!
So, What is a Pre-Wedding Photoshoot?
A pre-wedding photoshoot is a photo session that you opt to do with your very own wedding photographer. This photoshoot typically takes place about 3 to 6 months before the wedding.
While there are many different reasons why couples tend to opt for a professional photoshoot a few months before the wedding, the main reason is to get used to being in front of the camera and get an idea of how well you mesh with the photographer and their team.
You also get a general idea of how you and your partner look while posing, giving you plenty of time to make adjustments before the actual wedding.
Top 5 Reasons to Book a Photoshoot Before Your Wedding
Now that you have a basic idea of what a pre-wedding photoshoot is, the next question that will pop up in your mind is, “Why should I book a pre-wedding photoshoot?”
Building Rapport: Spending time with your wedding photographer before the big day helps you get comfortable with their working style.
Bye-Bye Camera Shyness: Familiarity between you and your wedding photographer can reduce any camera shyness, helping you feel at ease and get more natural and authentic photos on your wedding day.
Testing the Waters: A pre-wedding photoshoot is the perfect trial run for the actual wedding day. You will be able to see how the photographer works, how they direct you, and how well you both follow the instructions.
Capturing the Love: A photoshoot before your wedding gives you the unique opportunity to get pictures in a relaxed setting, completely free from the pressures of the wedding day.
Personalized Wedding Elements: For a personalized touch, use your pre-wedding pictures on wedding invitations or display them at the entrance of your wedding venue!
How to Plan the Perfect Pre-Wedding Photoshoot
Define Your Vision
The first step in planning your pre-wedding photoshoot is to sit down with your partner and talk about your ideas. Discuss themes, styles, and concepts that resonate with you both.
Do you prefer a romantic, whimsical, vintage, or modern theme? Are you drawn to candid photography, posed portraits, or a mix of both? Would you like to include any specific concepts or storylines, such as your first date or a particular hobby, to add a personal touch to the photoshoot? Use Pinterest or similar platforms to inspire you and create a useful mood board to visually organize your ideas.
Do your best to ensure that you pick themes and concepts that are meaningful to both of you. This will add depth to your pre-wedding pictures and make it more personal.
Choose the Right Photographer
A skilled photographer captures beautiful images and makes you feel comfortable and confident during the shoot. With our expert tips, choosing the right photographer can be easy!
- Start by researching photographers who have experience with pre-wedding photoshoots. Specialized photographers are more likely to understand the specific requirements of a pre-wedding session.
- Carefully review their online portfolios to look for consistency in style, quality of images, and how they handle different lighting conditions and settings.
- Read reviews and testimonials from previous clients. Platforms like Google Reviews, Yelp, and wedding-specific websites can be valuable resources.
- Set up a consultation to share your vision, ask questions, and determine whether they are the right fit for your pre-wedding photoshoot.
- Discuss location logistics, the best time for the photo shoot, etc. Speak to them about their availability and package options.
- Pay attention to how well you get along with the photographer. Make sure they are approachable and easy to communicate with.
- Ask about their experience with pre-wedding shoots. If they can suggest unique ideas and poses that align with your vision, then you have found the right photographer!
Plan the Location
Location is the most important aspect of the photoshoot. Think about the following when finalizing a location for your pre-wedding photoshoot.
Choose a Meaningful Place
The location of your pre-wedding photoshoot should be unique to both of you and hold sentimental value. This will add a personal touch to your photos. Consider the following locations for places that resonate with you and your partner.
- Your first meeting spot
- Your favorite place to hang out
- The place where you first confessed your feelings to each other
- A location where you shared a memorable vacation
- The place where you got engaged
Think About Aesthetics
Today, every picture is about aesthetics. While sentimental value is all nice and sweet, the aesthetic appeal of the location plays a significant role in the overall look and feel of your photos. Unique visual elements in different settings can enhance your photoshoot significantly.
For instance, modern architecture, busy streets, and cityscapes are perfect for couples who prefer a contemporary style of photography. Parks, gardens, or forests can also reflect your romantic theme with a serene and natural look. You can also opt for historical sites such as old buildings, castles, and heritage sites for a vintage classical theme.
Consider Accessibility
Ensure the location is easily accessible and consider any permits or permissions that might be required for photography. Check if there are any restrictions that could impact your shoot.
Always Have a Backup Plan
Always have a backup plan in case of unexpected weather changes or unforeseen issues with your chosen location. Make sure to identify alternative spots nearby that you can quickly switch to if needed.
Choose Your Outfits
Choosing your outfits for the pre-wedding photoshoot can be one of the most fun parts. Your outfits will set the tone and play a major role in enhancing the overall aesthetic of your photos. To help you avoid spending hours choosing the right clothes, we have provided you with a simple guide on picking one!
Complement Each Other
Coordinate your outfits effortlessly by selecting a color palette that works well together. You don’t necessarily need to wear identical colors, but complementing colors can create a more put-together look without being too matchy-matchy. Say, if one of you chooses to wear blue, the other can opt for shades of gray or white.
Also, make sure that both outfits have a similar level of formality. If one of you is wearing a formal suit or dress, the other should avoid overly casual attire like jeans and a t-shirt because CRINGE.
Match the Theme & Location
If you’re going for a vintage theme, consider outfits that echo the styles of that era, such as retro dresses, suspenders, and bow ties. For a modern theme, sleek and contemporary clothing choices are ideal.
For a beach shoot, light, airy fabrics, and barefoot or sandals are fitting. For a cityscape, chic, stylish outfits that resonate with urban sophistication work best. For a nature shoot, earthy tones and comfortable, practical clothing are advisable.
Opt for Comfort & Confidence
Comfort and confidence are key to looking and feeling your best in photos. So, choose fabrics that you are comfortable in, especially if your shoot involves a lot of movement or changing weather conditions.
Opt for outfits that flatter your body type and make you feel confident. Avoid clothes that are too tight or too loose. Avoid uncomfortable heels, especially if you plan to walk or stand for extended periods. If you do think you photograph well in heels, bring a pair of flats for when you need to take a break.
Add Variety
Bringing an additional outfit or two can add variety to your photoshoot! If there is no place to change in and out of outfits, you can layer your different options and peel them off as the pre-wedding photoshoot progresses! Accessories like hats, scarves, jewelry, or even a change of shoes can transform an outfit and add an extra layer of interest to your photos.
Plan Your Props
You can add simple props such as letters or cards exchanged between the two of you over the course of your relationship. Keep it simple and breezy. You can also get your furry friend (a dog, a cat, or any other beloved pet) to accompany you in the photos and add an additional personal touch!
Relax & Enjoy
The day of your pre-wedding photoshoot should be enjoyable and stress-free, allowing you to create beautiful, natural memories. It’s important to relax, be yourselves, and fully embrace the experience.
Try to forget about the camera and focus on each other. Engage in conversations, share jokes, and recall happy memories. The more natural your interactions, the more authentic your photos will be. Don’t be too worried about striking the perfect pose. Candid moments, after all, result in the most heartwarming photos.
Just enjoy the experience by having fun and making a memorable day out of it!
Conclusion
A pre-wedding photoshoot is a great opportunity to celebrate your love and create lasting memories while getting to know your wedding photographer.
Remember, the best photos come from moments where you are relaxed, happy, and truly enjoying each other’s company. So, take a deep breath, let go of any stress, and savor every moment of this special day.
Capture Your Pre-Wedding Photoshoot with AVS360
Ready to create unforgettable memories before your big day?
Book your pre-wedding photoshoot with AVS360, and let us capture the magic of your love story. Our experienced photographers will work with you to ensure your vision comes to life in stunning, personalized photos.
Schedule your consultation today and begin planning the photoshoot of your dreams!
AVS360 — Where your memories last a lifetime.
