Engagement or pre-wedding shoots

As professional photographers we get used to dealing with subjects.  Making them look comfortable, relaxed, happy and getting the most flattering shots.  But what about the subjects - this is a really big deal for them and many may have never had a professional photo shoot before!






We started doing pre-wedding shoots right from the start.  Yes, this means an extra day booked out, more fuel, more photoshop time etc. etc. but we have always believed that its time well invested for several reasons.






Firstly, this is a great way to get to know our wedding couples on a more personal level before the big day - what makes them smile? What are their interests?  What is happening in the family?

Secondly, this throws up any potential conundrums - pre-blinking, extra chins, awkward stances.  Better to iron these out before the big day!

Thirdly, this puts the couple nicely at ease in front of the camera, kissing in public, having onlookers and so on.  This way they can look forward to the wedding day with some level of expectation as to what will be happening.

Fourth, the shoot gives us a perfect 'get together' opportunity to discuss in detail the planning/timetable for the day.  We are often surprised that, as late as the week before the wedding, our discussion throws up issues such as what time the groom has to leave for the church!






Lastly, these shots are relaxed, informal and a great record of the couple before they were married.  The shots often end up in the first part of the wedding album to commemorate their engagement.

In fact we are getting equal numbers of couples booking an engagement celebration shoot before selecting us as their wedding photographer!