Let me give you a rough idea of what your pre-wedding shoot will be like so you know what to expect. There’s nothing worse than the feeling of uncertainty right before being photographed. I’ll get straight to the point ?
What happens during the pre-wedding shoot?
When you two arrive, we’ll head out and we’ll probably walk and chat for about 15 or so minutes before we start shooting so we can get to know each other a bit better. I usually then start by having you walk and talk together.
I’ll then ease you into more intimate positions or different ways of interacting together as we go along. Whatever I see you’re comfortable with! I won’t reveal my tricks here, but I give you different activities to keep you looking natural.
Do we have to pose?
I wouldn’t call it posing ? But of course, you’ll have to actually be in front of the camera. If you’re nervous, no need to worry. I’m not expecting you to show up and model for me, I’ll help you out!
Once we start shooting, I’ll be directing you and helping you out with everything if I sense that you’re unsure of what to do.
I never ask you to hold a position or do anything that’s making you uncomfortable. However, why not try a few different things and see if it works for you? If you feel a little awkward trying something new, I’ll notice instantly and we’ll all have a laugh about it.
Of course, if you want to pose or feel comfortable being directed a bit more, we can get other kinds of photos to supplement your gallery for even more variety! You may even be surprised that you actually LIKE those even more instructed photos.
If you feel comfortable being directed a bit more, we can get other kinds of photos to supplement your gallery for even more variety. You may even be surprised that you actually LIKE those even more instructed photos.
Sometimes the most creative shots come from a more directed situation, like in the examples below. During our shoot, I often try a few different things to see what works in our location and what works for you as a couple.
How long does the pre-wedding shoot last?
Usually the engagement shoot lasts substantially longer than your actual wedding photoshoot. This is because 1) we have the time, 2) we’re trying out what kind of stuff works best for you, and 3) everyone’s different and some people just need more time to loosen up ?
When I’m happy with what I’ve got, and there’s a good amount of variety and relaxed portraits, we’ll call it a day. The duration of the shoot is usually around 60 minutes, or 90-120 minutes if we combine it with a coffee first and/or your pre-wedding meeting.
The duration of the shoot is usually around 60 minutes, or 90-120 minutes if we combine it with a coffee first and your pre-wedding meeting.
Do I need to bring anything along?
Try to bring the bare minimum to your shoot, because we will probably move around a lot. This means that you shouldn’t even bring a handbag unless you want it in all your photos.
I want to capture timeless images, and focus on you and your connection rather than on props that doesn’t really have significance for your location or your relationship. Although flowers are gorgeous at any time, if you want a more stylish, editorial look for your photos.
And remember to empty your pockets! If you don’t need your wallet of phone during our shoot, leave it behind (or I’ll take care of it). Nothing’s more disappointing than a lovely photo with a wallet or phone square on your thighs or back pockets.
Can we bring our dog?
I know how important pets are and appreciate that sometimes it’s just not possible to leave them at home, so I allow you to bring pets along (and I happen to LOVE them, so please allow time for cuddles).
However, think about that you have to be able and willing to control them at all times. If they’re not the most well-behaved, it can be a bit distracting unless we’re somewhere they can run around freely.
Essentially, this is about you and getting comfortable together in front of the camera. A pet can be very distracting and affect your final result ?
Essentially, this is about you and getting comfortable together in front of the camera. If you’re not fazed about having your dog along with us at all times (even in a lead), that’s cool with me. Just know that it can affect the final result (and there may be a dog or cat in all the photos).
I hope that cleared up any questions you have about what happens on the day of your pre-wedding shoot. If you still have questions, let me know!
Click here to more engagement photos on my blog, and here to see all the blogposts in the pre-wedding shoot series.
