Tips For Preparing For Your Pre-wedding Photoshoot
Congratulations on your upcoming wedding! Pre-wedding photoshoots, also known as engagement photoshoots, are a great way to celebrate your love and capture beautiful memories of this special time in your lives.
During a pre-wedding photoshoot, you’ll have the opportunity to work with a professional photographer to create stunning pictures that reflect your personalities and relationship.
Whether you choose to have your photoshoot at a scenic outdoor location or in the comfort of your own home, the end result will be a set of timeless images that you’ll cherish for years to come.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss the origin of pre-wedding photoshoots, benefits of having a pre-wedding photoshoot, offer tips on how to prepare for your photoshoot, and suggest some creative ideas for making your photoshoot unique and personal.
So sit back, relax, and let’s get started on planning the perfect pre-wedding photoshoot!
You may also be interested in this excellent piece on From Dating To Engaged? How to propose to your partner
Origin of pre-wedding photoshoots
Origin of The origins of pre-wedding photoshoots can be traced back to the early 20th century, when photography became more accessible and affordable for the general public.
At this time, it became common for couples to have formal portrait photographs taken to mark special occasions, such as engagements and weddings.
These photographs were often used in wedding announcements, as well as in wedding albums to document the couple’s special day.
Over time, the popularity of pre-wedding photoshoots has continued to grow, and they are now a common feature of modern wedding celebrations.
Benefits of having a pre-wedding photoshoot
There are several benefits to having a pre-wedding photoshoot. Some of the main benefits include:
1. Get to know your photographer: A pre-wedding photoshoot can be a great opportunity to get to know your photographer and build a rapport with them. This can help you feel more comfortable and relaxed on the wedding day.
2. Practice poses and looking natural: Pre-wedding photoshoots can be a good opportunity for you and your partner to practice posing and getting comfortable in front of the camera. This can help you feel more confident and natural on the wedding day.
3. Create beautiful memories: Pre-wedding photoshoots allow you to create beautiful, romantic memories that you can look back on for years to come. These photos can be a great addition to your wedding album and can help you remember your engagement and the lead-up to your big day.
4. Professional pictures for your wedding materials: Having a pre-wedding photoshoot can also allow you have professionally taken pictures for your wedding materials, as you can use the photos from the photoshoot for your wedding invitations and other wedding-related stationery and gift items.
5. Relaxation: Pre-wedding photoshoots can also be a fun, enjoyable and relaxing experience for you and your partner, away from all the wedding planning drama. It’s a great opportunity to spend some quality time together and create beautiful memories that you will cherish for a lifetime. Relax and take it all in.
Factors to consider when planning a pre-wedding photoshoot in Nigeria
When planning a pre-wedding photoshoot in Nigeria, there are several factors to consider.
Some of these factors may include the following:
1. Budget: Determine how much you are willing to spend on the photoshoot, and make sure to discuss this with your planner and in some cases, your photographer.
Wedding TIP: Not all wedding Photography packages has Pre-wedding photoshoot included in all their wedding packages. Before jumping on the cheapest package, be sure to take a good look at all their wedding packages very well. Some photographers also charge an extra fee for Pre-wedding photoshoots.
2. Location: Choose a location that is meaningful to you as a couple and that fits the theme of your photoshoot.
Wedding TIP: Using a location that flows into your photoshoot theme will give your pictures more depth.
3. Outfits: Choose outfits that complement each other and fit the theme of the photoshoot.
TIP: It could be the same outfits, complementing outfits or colour coordinating outfits. There are also some mis-match outfits that work.
4. Hair and makeup: Consider getting your hair and makeup done professionally for a polished look.
5. Photographer: Choose a photographer whose style you like and who you feel comfortable working with. Make sure to review their portfolio and if you feel the need to meet with them in person before booking, then do just that.
6. Time of day: Consider the time of day that you want to have your photoshoot, as this can affect the lighting and overall look of the photos.
7. Weather: Be prepared for inclement weather and have a backup plan in case the weather does not cooperate.
8. Props and accessories: Consider using props and accessories to add personal touches to your photos.
9. Permits and fees: Make sure to research any necessary permits or fees for the location of your photoshoot.
TIP: Some locations charge a fee to use their space and some of these locations (even after payment), may not allow you use some certain areas in their facility. So it is important to ask.
10. Logistics: Plan ahead and consider any logistical details, such as transportation to the photoshoot location. How easy is it to get to the location should also be considered.
Tips on how to prepare for your photoshoot
Here are some tips on how to prepare for your pre-wedding photoshoot:
1. Choose a location that is meaningful to you: Choose a location that has special meaning to you as a couple, such as a place where you had your first date or where you got engaged. This will add personal significance to your photos.
Note: It does not necessarily have to mean something to you and your spouse, it could just be a beautiful location that you both love and think will do justice to your pictures.
2. Coordinate your outfits: Choose outfits that complement each other and fit the theme of the photoshoot. Avoid wearing clothes with busy patterns or logos, as they can distract from the overall look of the photo.
3. Get your hair and makeup done professionally: Consider getting your hair and makeup done professionally for a polished look. This can help you feel more confident and comfortable in front of the camera.
4. Practice posing: Practice posing in front of a mirror or with a friend to get a feel for what looks natural and comfortable. This can help you feel more relaxed and confident during the actual photoshoot.
5. Plan ahead: Make sure to plan ahead and consider any logistical details, such as transportation to the photoshoot location and any necessary permits or fees.
6. Be yourself: Above all, remember to be yourself and have fun! The more relaxed and comfortable you are, the more natural and authentic your photos will be.
Related: 14 Guidelines For Having An Outdoor Naija Wedding
Creative ideas for making your photoshoot unique and personal
Here are some creative ideas for making your pre-wedding photoshoot unique and personal:
1. Choose a meaningful location: Choose a location that has special meaning to you as a couple, such as a place where you had your first date or where you got engaged.
2. Incorporate your hobbies and interests: Use props and accessories that reflect your hobbies and interests as a couple, such as musical instruments, sports equipment, or art supplies.
3. Use a theme: Choose a theme for your photoshoot, such as a vintage or beach theme, and incorporate elements of the theme into your outfits and props.
4. Use personal touches: Incorporate personal touches into your photoshoot, such as a handwritten love letter or a special piece of jewelry.
5. Use unique backdrops: Choose a unique backdrop for your photoshoot, such as a beautiful garden or a graffiti-covered alleyway.
6. Incorporate your pets: If you have pets, consider including them in your photoshoot for a personal touch.
7. Use meaningful props: Use props that have special meaning to you as a couple, such as a family heirloom or a sentimental trinket.
8. Create a story with your photos: Consider creating a narrative with your photos, such as reenacting a special moment from your relationship or creating a fun and whimsical scene.
9. Use different angles and perspectives: Experiment with different angles and perspectives, such as using aerial shots or close-ups, to add visual interest to your photos.
10. Have fun and be yourself: Above all, remember to have fun and be yourselves! The more relaxed and comfortable you are, the more natural and authentic your photos will be.
You can also read: How To Pick The Right Setting For A Marriage Proposal
Thank you for taking the time to read about our tips for planning a pre-wedding photoshoot. We hope that our suggestions have been helpful and have given you some ideas for your own photoshoot.
Pre-wedding photoshoots can be a wonderful way to celebrate your love and create lasting memories leading up to your big day. By considering the location, theme, and outfits, you can make your photoshoot truly unique and personal to you and your partner.
We encourage you to use these tips as a starting point and to do your own research to find the best photographer and location for your photoshoot. Above all, remember to have fun and enjoy the experience – it’s a special opportunity to celebrate your love and the journey leading up to your wedding day.
Thank you again for reading, and we wish you all the best as you plan your own pre-wedding photoshoot.
You Know I Love You
X.O.X.O The Best Wedding Planner In Nigeria
Olamide~ The Heiress
Head Planner,
La’ Heiress Weddings
Our readers also love: 133 Stunning Civil Wedding Dresses For 2022