(I know this may be your worst nightmare) but the idea of the pre-wedding shoot is so we can meet properly face-to-face before your wedding, so I'm not a complete stranger turning up to spend the whole day with you! It also allows you to get a feel for how I work and it will ideally get you both relaxed and comfortable in front of the camera.
I encourage my couples to think of somewhere that is not only a great photographic backdrop, but somewhere that has meaning. It could be the spot you got engaged, that was the breath taking Studland Bay in Dorset for Sam & Laura, (but yes I will fly to Lake Como with you if that's where it was...!) Or it might be a local spot that you love to go for walks, or somewhere that you've always wanted to visit but have never found the time. Or if you're totally stumped for ideas, I have a long list of spots that I love to shoot at.
As you can see from Sam & Laura's shoot, the vibe was super chilled! So you don't need to worry as I will guide you through every step of the shoot, from telling you where to put your hands, to turning that head ever so slightly! I want you to be in a moment together, enjoying the surroundings and the journey that you are embarking on, and I will be there to capture it all! I will probably throw some sarcastic comments your way or even the slight awkwardness of looking at one another will make you giggle! You will hopefully come away from this shoot feeling like pro models and ready for the wedding day!
Around 2 weeks after your pre-wedding shoot, I will deliver 50-60 hi-res images in a private online gallery, edited in my signature style which you are free to do what you wish with! You could use them for your save the dates or invitations, pop them on your order of service or print, frame and display them around your wedding venue.
The difference between a good shoot and a great shoot is honestly your outfits. This is so important in my business, whether you're a wedding client or coming along to the studio for a session. Colours and patterns can make or break a photograph, and I have promised to deliver you timeless, beautiful photos, so that is what I will do! My advice is to stick to less is more. Whites, neutrals, earthy tones, light pastels and denim works a treat. Avoid checks or stripes, big logos or any form of text. Don't be afraid to dress up, put on a flowy dress or a shirt and trousers. Maybe even tie it in with your hair and makeup trial so you can really see how it all looks in photographs!
Unless you specifically want to do the shoot quite far in advance, I will usually be in touch at the start of the year you're getting married to book your shoot in. Naturally my weekends are chock-a-block in the spring and summer, so if there are dates that stand out, just ping me an email and we can start planning!
So if you're like me and believe a pre-wed shoot is a must have as part of your wedding photography, then get in contact now to book me for your 2023/24 WEDDING!!