So what is a pre-wedding shoot?
A pre-wedding shoot is something you may have heard about when you’re looking for a wedding photographer, so we hope to let you know exactly what they are, why they are a great idea, and we can also suggest a few tips to get the most out of the shoot.
A pre-wedding shoot is basically when you meet up with your photographer before the wedding to take photos, usually at the wedding venue, although some couples like to go to a location that is special to them, maybe where the proposal took place for example. You may also hear about an engagement shoot, but they are just the same thing.
Why do one and what will you get out of it?
It’s a good question, as you may think what’s the point when you’re going to have your couple photos taken on your wedding day, but that’s exactly why you should have a pre-wedding shoot. It is like a dry run for when we take the couple photos on the wedding day and a perfect opportunity become accustomed to a camera being around. ok, we admit it will feel a little odd at first, but all our couples relax after just a few minutes and get a real surprise when it actually turns out to be quite fun!
Another major reason for doing a PWS is if you hold it at, or around the venue, you have the opportunity to review all of the photos and then choose which locations you would like to use on your wedding day. So no wandering around on the day looking for the best locations and more time to spend with your guests at the drinks reception.
What you really need to know…
So once you have booked your date, here are a few tips which should help you make the best of the shoot. But, don’t worry as they aren’t complicated or difficult!
What to wear?
That’s easy, just wear what you feel comfortable in, although smart-casual does look great in pre-wedding shoots, like jeans, flowing dresses or light shirts if it is the summertime Just try to avoid both wearing strong clashing colours like oranges and pinks! Also try to avoid large branding or logos on sweatshirts for example as they are distracting and will date your photos.
Also think about the season that the shoot will take place in, so if your shoot was in the Autumn then think about more muted, warm colours. Neutral colours always work well in most situations, so whites, blacks and greys with added accent wear works really well.
On the subject of the seasons – remember that the weather can be very changeable, especially if your shoot is in Scotland. Not only can we have 4 seasons in one day, but often in just one hour, so regardless of the weather forecast, it is always a good idea to bring along a few layers and definitely some rainwear! Also on that note, suitable footwear if you plan to go off the beaten track and pack an umbrella if you have one (White is best and you can always use this on your wedding day if you get a little shower).
How do you get over any awkwardness?
Well there’s no secret, and it will be a bit weird, but if it is any consolation then most of our couples don’t feel totally comfortable in front of the camera either, at least at first. We totally get it as we do lots of pre-wedding shoots and some of our couples say the same thing ‘I hate my photos being taken’ or ‘I never look good in photos’. That’s perfectly natural, but you will soon forget that we are taking photos as we are not going to boss you around and ask you to stand in silly poses. We will keep it as relaxed and natural as possible, but if you would like a little direction as to what looks fab in the photos then you can just let us know and we’ll give you a few tips to start you off.
Without exception, all of our couples say that a pre-wedding shoot was the best thing that they ever did during the planning of their wedding and that it made taking the couple photos on the day much more relaxed and fun!.
Which locations should you use?
What is great about doing a pre-wedding shoot is that there is no time constraint and we can visit all the locations around the venue, or even drive off to a nearby loch, riverside or spectacular mountain backdrop.
We share the photos from the shoot just a couple of days after then you let us know which ones were your favourites and which of the location you would like to use on he wedding day. So no stressing about where to go on the big day, or how long it will take!
Enjoy it!
It’s always simple to say that but, a pre-wedding shoot is always fun so make the most of the day. Take the day off and why not try a local restaurant for lunch or dinner, then take the scenic way home.
So it is that easy and we hope that this has given you a little idea of what a pre-wedding shoot is all about and how to get the most from them. All our couples loved their shoot and even used some of the photos for their ‘save the date’ cards.
If you were looking for a more relaxed style for your wedding photography without all those awkward poses then, please drop us a line using our contact form and we’ll get right back to you.
