So . . . you've got a pre-wedding shoot coming up.
Theres a high chance that you are feeling a bit pensive about it. Perhaps even dreading it, and thats ok, I wont be offended! My goal, whenever I photograph anybody is to make them feel comfortable in front of the camera and when it comes to weddings, this shoot is the perfect opportunity to remove those jitters before the big day.
Location is important
It may be that you have a particular spot in mind for your session and thats perfect. I love when couples have that special place already in their hearts. It could be where you got engaged, or even just where you love to walk the dogs.
Sometimes though, there isn't somewhere that springs to mind and thats ok too. I have lots of great suggestions to help you decide the perfect spot.
The Beach
Is there anything better than a golden sunset on a beautiful beach? It could be the warm sandy beaches of Camber or the shiny pebbles of a Bexhill or Brighton.
The woods
The rustling leaves and breeze of a woodland can be the perfect spot for a shoot. Especially in the autumn months. Lets don our wellies and head into the countryside.
The City
London or any big city for that matter can be a great backdrop for a session, so long as you don't mind a few onlookers. We can spend a few hours wandering between landmarks or one of the cities great parks.
The quaint little town
Kent and Sussex is full to the brim with quaint little towns with winding side streets and beautiful buildings. Rye, Hastings Old Town, Battle and the Brighton Lanes to name but a few. We could grab a coffee in a little cafe and just wander.
The Historic property
We are blessed to have some of the most beautiful historic properties in England right on our doorstep. They make a perfect backdrop for a walk about and pictures.
. . . Or even further afield
Its a bold move but sometimes the perfect place for your shoot isn't even on these shores. A few years back, this couple were set on Venice as the location so we took a flight and made it happen.
Who to include?
Family time
We know weddings sometimes aren't just about you as a couple, it could be the joining & merging of families. So if you'd like to bring the whole gang then please do. We can go somewhere that the kids can run and play. The beach at low tide is ideal for this or a local park.
and i mean All the family
When I get people ask if they can bring their dog, I say absolutely! I love dogs, and we have a very crazy cocker spaniel ourselves. By all means bring the pets, even the family tortoise.
What to wear?
In essence, the answer to this question is . . . whatever you want! It really is down to you. Wear what makes you feel good. Some couples want to dress up a bit smarter, some in shorts and summer dresses. If you're normally decked out in Lucy & Yak clashing prints, then i'm not going to advise you to go out & buy beige. If you're happy, i'm happy.
My one piece of advice would be, let it suit the location. If we are off to the woods, you may feel a bit silly in your smartest outfits. Make sure you are comfortable and feeling confident.
Just you guys...and me.
The main reason I include this shoot in my full wedding package is so that you can get used to being in front of the camera. It can be a very daunting prospect, especially if you aren't used to it or actively avoid it. It also presents an opportunity for us to get to know each other. See what photography you like and what you don't like. I can give you direction into some poses, but we keep things as natural and relaxed as possible, just like the wedding day.
