For some time now, photography for couples has not stopped evolving.
New trends have emerged and new services are offered to couples by photographers: photo booths, pre-weddings, post-weddings, parents’ albums, slideshows, signature albums, and everything you can imagine. But if there is one that stands out and is valued above the rest (apart from the wedding report, of course), it would be the pre-wedding photo shoot.
Pre-wedding photography is a session that the couple does some time before the wedding, in which they try to capture their personality, their naturalness, and, of course, their love. If you are thinking about having a wedding session, these tips will help you get the best results and feel more comfortable.
But First, Why Take Pre-wedding Photos?
With the pre-wedding photo session, you will get some unique snapshots of the two of you. Some photographs that, sometime later, will complete all those that you have taken during your relationship and, logically, on what will undoubtedly be one of the happiest and most special days for both of you. One more memory turned into an image and perfect to treasure for the rest of your lives.
Wear Your Engagement Ring
Even if you have been engaged for a while, the ring and its diamond can still be the centerpiece of this photo shoot. You could take some photos where the ring appears in the foreground and that way you will have a memento of this special accessory. Still do not have an engagement ring? Consider buying a lab-grown diamond, which looks exactly like a traditional ring but without causing any harm to the environment. I suggest you check out the rings at https://www.labgrown.com/diamond/engagement-rings and you are sure to find one you will love.
Choose the Best Time
A pre-wedding session is usually done shortly before the wedding. Well, I have to say that I do not consider it entirely necessary, since the best time to do a good photo shoot is when the natural light is adequate, so keep in mind:
Season of the Year
A large percentage of weddings are celebrated in summer, and it is certainly not the best time of the year for the pre-wedding shoot since we can find:
- Very harsh sunlight, with very pronounced shadows, not usually flattering to almost anyone.
- Heat. Sometimes it can be overwhelming, and with the humidity, I can’t even tell you.
- Those crazy glares that appear everywhere without having been invited to the session.
- Crowded places (imagine those of us who live on the coast how much we suffer from this circumstance)
- As advice, I recommend spring and autumn as the ideal time for everything to go smoothly and not have these setbacks.
Time of the Session
This is essential if we want to use natural light. We should avoid the central hours of the day when the light is strongest at all costs. The best time would be dusk or even dawn (for early risers, this is the best option).
Given the importance of light, plan your journey so that you can arrive on time at the destination chosen for your pre-wedding session. Paris in particular can be a bit chaotic, even more so if you are not familiar with the city’s traffic. Half an hour late and we will no longer have the perfect light for the entire session. Remember, the sun does not wait.
Take Advantage of the Season in Which We Are Going to Do the Pre-wedding Session
Do not pretend that it is summer in the middle of January. Not only is it uncomfortable for you, but the photographs will look more artificial. Is it winter? Then take advantage of it to make the most of your favorite warm clothes, sweaters, scarves, caps, or hats. Also take into account the elements that nature gives you: autumn leaves, puddles of water, etc. And if it rains? Then bring an umbrella and take photos in the rain!
Choose the Right Hair and Makeup for Your Pre-Wedding
Perhaps, along with clothes, this is one of the issues that worries you the most, but here are some small and simple tips:
Makeup
- Many clients choose an elegant and sophisticated look for their photos in Paris. However, if that is not your style, pick a more natural makeup look.
- Avoid makeup with shine unless it is a night photoshoot (like gloss, metallic, etc.)
Hairdressing
- No sophisticated updos. Remember that if the session is outdoors, which clients usually prefer in Paris, the wind will always blow your hair.
Avoid the Long White Dress
If you want to wear a white dress, it is better to wear a short dress with accessories that make it more casual. You will wear the long white dress on the big day and show it off in every photo.
Prepare at Least 2 Different Looks for the Session
We will always try to do this session in several locations, so if you feel like it, two outfits for each member of the couple will make the result of the photos much more varied. This is one of the most interesting tips for pre-wedding sessions… because it will seem like you have done two completely different sessions! As for colors, try to coordinate the colors between you, always opting for an outfit that does not stand out too much. Basics never go out of style, there is no danger that these clothes will look outdated in the future. Neutral, plain colors are always a good idea. Avoid very striking prints, texts on the clothes, and brands.
Conclusion
Pre-wedding photos are a great preview of what is to come and will be a wonderful memory for life. But they are also an excellent opportunity to lose your fear of the camera and break the ice with the photographer you hired. Considering the advice in this article, such as choosing the right makeup and outfit, will help you prepare to get the most out of your photo shoot.