Having a pre-wedding photoshoot is a brilliant idea as it helps relax you ahead of the big day, you can get to know your photographer a little more (and vice versa) and it gives you a fun ‘practice run’ before the wedding. It is also an opportunity to get some professional photos images to use on your save the date cards or invitations.
I offer engagement photography for all my couples, I have a studio and feel happy to shoot in the that environment I tend to lean toward outdoor sessions for these type of session where possible, it is closer to how things will be on the day plus we can change things up and move around accordingly to utilise the light and the background.
Engagement photography allows you to bring some special props along, for example some of my couples like to bring champagne and a picnic blanket for a summer session or wellies and a cosy blanket in the winter. I am always happy to discuss and advise when styling for engagement shoots. Fur babies are also welcome to come along for the fun.
Five top tips to get the most from your engagement session
- Think about timing, the beautiful soft morning light is perfect plus everywhere is quieter at that time so less distracting people walking past. Golden hour is also amazing as it the most flattering light, typically this is the last hour or two before sunset.
- Consider professional hair and makeup so you feel fantastic on the day – ladies, you may want to consider your nails as it is likely you will want to show off your new engagement ring off on a few photos
- Leading on from that….make a day of it. If you are all dressed up and having a shoot together why not have lunch afterwards or a special brunch beforehand. Don’t make it a rushed job in-between life-admin – be romantic!
- Coordinate with one another without being too ‘matchy matchy’. Soft neutral earthy tones work well for outdoor shoots, avoid too many clashing colours and patterns which will become the (unwanted) focal point of the images. I always provide styling advice ahead of time to all my couples.
- Bring a few props or items that are personal to you – be that your much-loved furbaby, a picnic hamper, a special blanket or your favourite flowers.
These photographs are from George and Paige’s engagement session, which took place at their wedding venue in Stone, Staffordshire. When Covid put a stop to their big day in 2020, we met up on their planned wedding date to capture these beautiful photographs instead. Then, when their second wedding date came in 2021, they were ready to rock when they finally got hitched on another gloriously sunny day!
George and Paige’s wedding photography at The Boathouse, Aston Marina.