What is a pre wedding shoot?

It is exactly that! A couples shoot you have before your wedding day.

All photographers work differently. Some include them in a wedding package and some don't and they are an optional add on. Personally, I include them in my full day package only.

They are available as an add on, to any of my other couples and are priced exactly the same as my couples shoots. If you are not sure, read your contract or ask your photographer.

Think of it as a little date, just the two of you (and me...), just having a laugh and some fun before the big day.


So what are the benefits?


There are so many to list.

  • Dispelling the nerves. It will put you at ease on the day without a doubt. Any of my couples who have had a pre shoot have said they were nervous about lots of things on their wedding day, but the photos were not one of them.
  • You will be meeting your photographer properly before the wedding day (if you haven't already). Meeting new people can be scary no matter how old we are. This way when your photographer arrives, it will just be another person you know in the room.
  • You get to see how your photographer works and how they shoot. This will make it easier to envisage how your photos and group shots will go on the actual day.
  • You will be getting a little preview of how your wedding photos will look. Receiving your photos in the same way you will receive your wedding photos, in a beautiful online private gallery for you to download. It makes it all the more exciting.
  • You already love your photographers work (that's why you chose them) but it isn't until you see photos of YOU, that you really see and appreciate why you chose them. And you will realise that having professional images is way better than having a load of phone selfies.


Nervous?


It will probably be the first time you have had professional photos taken so it is completely normal to feel a little nervous and apprehensive. I have lost count how many times I have turned up to a couple looking terrified that I am going to be shoving my camera in their faces. Don't worry I do NOT do that. But just think... if you feel nervous at the thought of these photos, imagine if the first time was on your wedding day. Usually at the end of a shoot the couple say "that was not how I thought it would be" or "I didn't know what to expect but that was fun".

Couple shocked they actually look great in photos!



Couples are usually so surprised about how good they look in their photos and are sometimes even shocked that they actually like them at all. This is because you've only ever had phone photos before and the difference is immense. We are all so self critical - so let your photographer show you how beautiful you are.

We are SO awkward in photos!


This is something I hear all the time! But this why you hire a professional. If your friend takes a photo of you they will usually have you stood still, looking at the camera given you a wooden image. Your photographer will know how to guide you, with easy moving prompts, so you both look natural and relaxed.

We didn't know what to expect!


Most coupes don't know what to expect on a shoot and why would they if they've never had one before.

I definitely keep things moving and fun. I always warn couples "wear flat shoes, and be prepared for a workout". My shoots usually involve lots of walking and are always outdoors.

When to have your shoot


How close to your wedding that you have your shoot will depend on a few things. When your wedding is and your photographers schedule.

I have more time to fit in pre wedding shoots in the late autumn / winter, as this is when I shoot less weddings and work on other projects. If they are a complimentary extra, they need to fit in with my schedule. However, I have squeezed them in for last minute bookings and always try to fit everyone's shoot in. Ideally, I like to do them a few weeks before the wedding (4-6 weeks). It is usually a time where couples start to feel some pressure and a bit of stress and this is a nice day to talk about the wedding, help where I can and just have a fun couple of hours away from the planning. Receiving your gallery will get you even more excited for the wedding day.

Choosing a location


If you have a particular location in mind, discuss it with your photographer. Some photographers may stipulate an area they cover, especially if they are complimentary shoots. I cover within a 40 mile radius of where I live, but if it is a paid for add on shoot I will pretty much travel anywhere.

I shoot a lot on the Norfolk Coast and at the woods and I generally attract these types of couples. I always ask couples if they have a special place they like to visit and use that as a starting point. Maybe the place you got engaged or where you went on your first date.

If you have no preference, your photographer will be able to suggest some locations as we generally drive around on high alert looking for cute spots for photos - it's what we do.


Bare in mind some locations may have photography restrictions. Some National Trust venues do not allow professional photography due to it affecting paying customers experience visiting that day. Most photographers would be respectful of this and find a quiet spot BUT I have been asked to stop taking photos of a couple of occasions. I will always check on their website before a shoot but it is worth baring in mind when choosing a public location.


I have done pre wedding shoots at the wedding venues before and this is great. Check with your venue first that it is ok and they may prefer it is done on a weekday when they do not have a wedding taking place.


(photo of Amy and Mike who chose this beach as it is where they got engaged)

Not booked a wedding photographer yet?


If you are eyeing up a specific photographer then why not book a couples shoot with them before you take the plunge. It is a great way to meet them first and see how they work before making your final decision. I have had a few couples do this before going on to book me for their weddings.


Hopefully this blog has given you a bit of confidence to go for it and have a pre wedding shoot.

You can click on the button below and have a look at some of the couples photos I have done.


Thanks for reading!