Pre-wedding shoots are an excellent way to have a feel of what it is like to be photographed as a couple and an opportunity to get to know your wedding photographer. I’d imagine you may not have much experience in modelling or being photographed by a professional. As a wedding photographer, I fully understand how this can all be overwhelming so hopefully, the following tips will be of use to you.
Be Yourselves
The first thing to do when thinking about the pre-wedding shoot is to try not to see it as a photo session. I’m guessing I’m right when I say when you look back at these images you’ll want to see yourself selves organically as possible as a couple. The best way to achieve this is to do exactly that. Try and approach the session as a couple of hours of the two of you spending some time together.
Don’t see it as a shoot. Let the photographer work their magic and you will enjoy the results!
Make It Fun
I’m not going to sugarcoat anything, so when I first start a session things are a little bit awkward. It’s not a very natural thing to do! But within minutes you’ll be relaxed and having fun. One of the best things to do is to have fun and enjoy each other’s company. I want to get those killer romantic epic shots but the more fun we can have the more relaxed you’ll become and the more amazing the images afterwards.
Relax
Easier said than done right? But at the end of the day, you’re not having open heart surgery! When I meet with my couples at the start of the session I’ll tell them that things will perhaps feel unnatural but that is only natural! I just tell them to relax their shoulders, take a few deep breaths and relax. My pre-wedding sessions are fun and relaxed. You should always remember that you are there to spend time together. Then, you will have some awesome organic images under some relaxed direction from me. It’s not about me leading the shoot, more about you guys enjoying each other’s company, and I’ll capture that.
Do Stuff
I think many wedding couples think that during my pre-wedding session, they will be stood around for hours feeling awkward or staring into the camera wishing they were at home.
This doesn’t happen.
Just be yourselves or do what you would do if you were just spending some time together in that location. At times I’ll often tell the couple to hug as if you are keeping each other warm, or picking each other up. The most important thing though is you be yourselves.
Communicate
Ask your engagement photographer questions, and tell them things you like or dislike. If you guys start on the right page you will have nothing to worry about. I love pre-wedding shoots as they give the perfect opportunity for you to get used to being photographed so you do not feel awkward on your wedding day. That way your wedding photos will look awesome too!
Please don't forget
You can bring loved ones with you. I love it when my couples ask me if they can bring their dog with them to the session. This is great to do and will break up the session. Please remember to bring someone else with you too. That way we can get some intimate moments without you worrying where your dog has run off too.
If you are interested in knowing more about my wedding photography and would like me to send you my beautiful brochure please contact me here
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