How much does a pre-wedding photoshoot cost in London?

May 28

The cost of a pre-wedding photoshoot in London, UK can vary greatly depending on several factors, including:

Shoot Duration: A quick one-hour session will be cheaper than a full-day shoot with multiple locations and outfit changes.

Number of photographers: Some photographers work alone, while others offer packages with additional assistants.

Included deliverables: Packages with edited photos, prints, albums, or even video highlights will be more expensive than those offering digital images only. Location: Shoots in iconic London landmarks might be more expensive than sessions in lesser-known areas.

Based on my research, here's a general idea of the price range you can expect:

Average price: £300 - £800 for a basic package with a few hours of shooting and digital images.
High-end price: £1,000 and above for packages with full-day shoots, multiple locations, additional services like makeup and hair, and premium deliverables like prints and albums.

Here are some additional tips for finding affordable pre-wedding photography in London:

Consider less experienced photographers: You might find talented up-and-coming photographers with competitive rates.
Be flexible with dates and times: Weekdays and off-peak hours are often cheaper than weekends.
Consider alternative locations: Explore less popular areas outside the city center for more budget-friendly options.

Photos of a Pre Wedding Photoshoot in London

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF A PRE WEDDING PHOTOSHOOT?

A pre-wedding photoshoot offers several advantages beyond just beautiful photos for your save-the-dates or wedding website. Here are some key benefits to consider:

Comfort and Confidence:

Get Comfortable in Front of the Camera: If you're not used to being photographed, a pre-wedding shoot is a low-pressure way to practice and get comfortable with the process. This can help you feel more relaxed and natural on your wedding day, leading to more genuine photos.
Build Rapport with Your Photographer: Spend time with your photographer beforehand to understand their style, communication methods, and how they direct you. This builds trust and ensures you're both on the same page for the wedding day, resulting in photos that truly reflect your vision.

Creative Exploration:

Experiment with Different Styles and Locations: Step outside the box and try various poses, outfits, and backdrops during the pre-wedding shoot. This allows you to explore your creative side and discover what you like best, helping you make informed decisions for your wedding photography.
Capture Candid Moments: Pre-wedding shoots often involve less time pressure and structure compared to the wedding day. This allows for more candid and spontaneous moments to be captured, reflecting your natural interactions and love.

Memories and Keepsakes:

Create Lasting Memories: The shoot itself can be a fun and romantic date, providing quality time together and a shared experience to cherish.
Unique Save-the-Dates and Wedding Decor: Use the beautiful photos for save-the-dates, guestbooks, wedding signage, or even a slideshow during the reception, adding a personal touch to your wedding celebrations.

Additional Benefits:

Identify Poses and Angles that Work: The pre-wedding shoot helps you discover flattering poses and angles that work best for you, ensuring you feel confident and radiant in your wedding photos.
Practice Makeup and Hair Trial: Coordinate with your makeup artist and hairstylist for a pre-wedding trial during the shoot. This allows you to refine your look and ensure you're happy with it before the big day.
Test Run for Wedding Day: Consider the shoot a dress rehearsal for your wedding day photography. You can get used to the photographer's instructions, timings, and overall flow, helping you feel more prepared and at ease on your wedding day.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to have a pre-wedding photoshoot is personal. However, by considering these advantages, you can weigh the pros and cons and decide if it aligns with your budget, desires, and vision for your wedding photography experience.

The "best" month for a pre-wedding photoshoot depends entirely on your personal preferences, desired aesthetic, and location! Here's a breakdown of the pros and cons of different seasons to help you decide:

Which month is best for pre-wedding photoshoot?

Spring (March to May):

Pros: Pleasant weather, blooming flowers, vibrant greenery, comfortable temperatures for outdoor shoots.

Spring prewedding photoshoot with blooming flowers
Cons: Can be unpredictable with showers or pollen allergies.

Summer (June to August):

Pros: Longer daylight hours, lush greenery, warm weather for beach or poolside shoots.

Summer prewedding photoshoot on the beach
Cons: Can be very hot and humid, potentially crowded outdoor locations.

Autumn (September to November):

Pros: Stunning fall foliage, comfortable temperatures, unique seasonal backdrops.

Autumn prewedding photoshoot with fall foliage
Cons: Shorter daylight hours, possibility of rain or windy weather.

Winter (December to February):

Pros: Unique snowy landscapes, cozy indoor sessions, fewer crowds at popular locations.
Winter prewedding photoshoot in the snow
Cons: Cold weather can be uncomfortable outdoors, limited daylight hours.

Beyond Seasons:

Consider specific events or holidays: Capture the magic of cherry blossoms in spring, festive lights in winter, or vibrant cultural celebrations throughout the year.
Think about your comfort level: Choose a time when you'll be most comfortable outdoors, considering temperature, humidity, and any personal preferences.
Discuss with your photographer: They can offer insights based on their experience and expertise, including local weather patterns and ideal lighting conditions for your desired aesthetic.

Remember, the most important factor is choosing a time that reflects your love story and allows you to capture genuine and beautiful photos.

What Colour should I wear for a pre-wedding shoot?

The best color for your pre-wedding shoot depends on several factors, and there's no single "right" answer! Here are some things to consider when choosing your attire:

Personal Style: Ultimately, you want to feel confident and comfortable in what you wear. Choose colors that flatter you and reflect your individual style.

Location and Season: Consider the background and time of year for your shoot. For example:

Spring: Light pastels, bright florals, or soft, romantic colors might complement blooming flowers.
Summer: Lighter, cooler colors like blues, greens, and whites can work well, while vibrant pops of color can also be stunning.
Autumn: Richer tones like burgundy, rust, mustard yellow, and emerald green can harmonize with fall foliage.
Winter: Deep jewel tones, warm neutrals, and pops of festive colors like red and silver can evoke a cozy wintery vibe.
Beach: Light, airy colors like white, blue, and coral can feel beachy and refreshing.
Urban setting: Bold colors and patterns can stand out against a city backdrop, while neutrals can offer a chic and timeless look.

Coordinate with your partner: It's not essential to match perfectly, but choosing colors that complement each other can create a visually pleasing harmony. Consider similar color palettes, analogous colors (next to each other on the color wheel), or complementary colors (opposite on the color wheel).

Avoid busy patterns: While some patterns can be fun, overly busy ones can be distracting in photos. Opt for solid colors or subtle patterns that won't compete with the background or your partner's outfit.

Consider the lighting: Lighter colors tend to photograph well in bright sunlight, while darker colors can look richer in softer lighting or shade.

Experiment and have fun! Don't be afraid to try different color combinations and see what you love. This is a chance to express yourselves and capture your unique love story.

Here are some additional tips:

Check with your photographer: They might have specific recommendations based on their experience and style.
Bring multiple outfit options: Having a few choices allows you to adapt to different locations or adjust your look throughout the shoot.
Most importantly, choose colors that make you feel happy and confident!

Remember, the most important thing is to capture genuine emotions and your love story. The right color choices will simply enhance the beauty of your pre-wedding photos.

Should you do wedding photoshoot before or after wedding?

There's no single "right" answer to whether you should do a wedding photoshoot before or after the ceremony, as it depends on your priorities and preferences. Here's a breakdown of the pros and cons of each option to help you decide:

Before the wedding:

Pros:

Less Stress: You can avoid rushing after the ceremony or missing parts of the reception for photos.
More Relaxed: Being less pressured, you might feel more comfortable and have more fun during the shoot.
More Time: Take advantage of longer daylight hours or explore multiple locations without restrictions.
Flexibility: Try different outfits, poses, and backdrops for more creative freedom.
First Look Moments: Capture emotional pre-ceremony moments like a "first look" with your partner.

Cons:

Spoiler: Seeing each other before the ceremony might lessen the emotional impact of walking down the aisle.
Dress Wrinkles: Your wedding attire might get wrinkled or dirty before the ceremony.
Hair and Makeup: You'll need to schedule and pay for hair and makeup twice.
Extra Cost: Adds another photography session to your wedding budget.

After the wedding:

Pros:

Authentic Emotion: Capture the genuine joy and excitement of being newlyweds.
Preserved Attire: Avoid any pre-ceremony wear and tear on your wedding clothes.
No Scheduling Issues: Focus on enjoying the ceremony and reception without worrying about photos.
Stress-Free Photos: Avoid feeling rushed or pressured during the reception.

Cons:

Less Time: Limited by daylight hours or venue availability after the ceremony.
Fewer Locations: Confined to the wedding venue or nearby areas.
Guest Waiting: Your guests might wait for you while you take photos.
Post-Wedding Fatigue: You might be tired from the ceremony and reception.

Additional factors to consider:

Your personal preferences and comfort level: Are you more focused on capturing candid moments or staged portraits?
Your photographer's availability: Discuss their recommendations and limitations for both options.
Weather: Opting for an outdoor shoot might depend on the time of year and potential weather conditions.
Your wedding budget: Factor in the additional cost of a pre-wedding shoot.

Ultimately, the decision is yours! Choose the option that best aligns with your vision and priorities for your wedding photography.

How should we prepare for our destination pre-wedding photoshoot?

Preparing for a destination pre-wedding photoshoot can be exciting but also requires organization. Here are some key steps to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience:

Communication:

Collaborate with your photographer: Discuss your vision, desired locations, attire options, and any logistical concerns. Ask about their recommended time of day, permit requirements, and potential backup plans in case of bad weather.
Coordinate with travel arrangements: Book flights, transportation, and accommodations well in advance, considering peak season pricing and availability.
Communicate with local authorities: Research if any permits or permissions are required for shooting in specific locations.

Logistics:

Research the destination: Understand the climate, attire norms, cultural sensitivities, and any potential challenges like language barriers.
Pack strategically: Bring comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing, including options for different locations and backup outfits in case of unforeseen circumstances. Pack essential toiletries and any props you plan to use.
Consider insurance: Research travel insurance options to cover potential losses or unexpected events.

Preparation:

Schedule hair and makeup appointments: Book with local professionals or confirm if your travel party can assist.
Practice travel photography: Get familiar with your camera settings and practice capturing landscapes, portraits, and candid moments.
Relax and enjoy the experience: Remember, this is a celebration of your love! Embrace the adventure, be present in the moment, and don't overstress about capturing the perfect shot.

Additional Tips:

Learn some basic phrases in the local language: This can be helpful for communicating with locals and adds a personal touch to your experience.
Pack essential supplies: Sunscreen, water bottle, hand sanitizer, and any medications you require.
Bring comfortable shoes: You'll likely be doing some walking and exploring different locations.
Consider local customs: Research and respect dress codes, cultural norms, and religious practices at your chosen locations.
Plan for downtime: Schedule relaxation time to enjoy the destination and recharge before the shoot.
Embrace spontaneity: Be open to unexpected moments and adjust your plans as needed to create authentic memories.

By planning ahead and communicating effectively, you can ensure your destination pre-wedding photoshoot is a stress-free and unforgettable experience that captures your love story in a unique and beautiful setting.

Can we use our pre-wedding photos in our wedding?

Yes sure and here is some ideas

Decorations:

Display framed prints: Showcase your favorite pre-wedding photos around the reception venue, guest book table, or ceremony area.
Create a slideshow or video: Compile a montage of your pre-wedding photos set to music and play it during the reception for a heartfelt touch.
Use them in signage: Incorporate pre-wedding photos into welcome signs, table numbers, or escort cards for a personalized touch.

Ceremony:

Include them in a pre-wedding video: Share a glimpse into your love story and journey to the wedding day by incorporating pre-wedding photos into a video played before the ceremony.
Use them for a "first look" reveal: If you're planning a first look before the ceremony, consider exchanging personalized gifts with pre-wedding photos attached.

Other creative uses:

Wedding website: Share your pre-wedding photos on your wedding website to tell your love story, showcase your personalities, and build anticipation for the big day.
Save-the-dates: Use your favorite pre-wedding photo to announce your wedding date and set the tone for your celebration.
Thank-you cards: Include a small personalized pre-wedding photo with your thank-you cards to express your gratitude to guests.

Remember:

Clear copyrights: Ensure you have the rights to use the photos for any purpose with your photographer, especially if you bought a specific package.
Maintain a cohesive aesthetic: Choose photos that complement your wedding theme and color palette.
Don't overdo it: Use your pre-wedding photos strategically to avoid overwhelming your guests.

Ultimately, the choice is yours! Have fun incorporating your pre-wedding photos into your wedding celebration and let them add a special touch to your memories of this special day.

Can we include specific themes or ideas in our pre wedding photography shoot?

Absolutely! In fact, incorporating themes and ideas into your pre-wedding photoshoot is a fantastic way to make it more personal, unique, and memorable. Here are some reasons why it's a great idea:

Express your personalities: Themes and ideas allow you to showcase your individual interests, hobbies, and passions as a couple. This makes the photos go beyond just pretty pictures and reflect who you truly are.

Create a cohesive aesthetic: Choosing a theme helps guide the overall look and feel of your photos, ensuring consistency and visual harmony.

Set the tone for your wedding: If you have a specific theme in mind for your wedding, incorporating elements of it into the pre-wedding shoot can create a sense of continuity and excitement.

Spark creativity: Themes can open up a world of possibilities for unique poses, locations, props, and outfits, making your shoot more enjoyable and engaging.

Now, let's explore some specific ways you can include themes or ideas:

Theme ideas:

Fairytale: Dress up as your favorite characters, recreate iconic scenes, or find enchanting locations like castles or gardens.
Adventure: Capture your love for exploration with a hike, bike ride, or photoshoot in a scenic outdoor location.
Vintage: Channel a specific era with classic outfits, props, and backdrops like antique cars or historical buildings.
Cultural: Celebrate your heritage or cultural backgrounds with traditional outfits, locations, and customs.
Movie-inspired: Recreate scenes from your favorite film or use its aesthetic as inspiration for your shoot.

Specific ideas:

Love story timeline: Capture photos at key locations from your relationship journey, like your first meeting spot or proposal site.
Recreate childhood memories: Visit places that hold special meaning from your childhood or recreate fun activities you used to do together.
Include your hobbies and passions: If you love cooking, have a picnic photoshoot with homemade treats. If you enjoy dancing, capture a dynamic shot of you dancing together.
Incorporate your pets: If your furry friends are a big part of your life, include them in your photoshoot for some adorable and heartwarming photos.

Remember:

Discuss your ideas with your photographer: They can offer valuable insights, suggestions, and expertise to bring your vision to life.
Be open to flexibility: While having a theme is great, be open to adapting it based on location, weather, or unexpected opportunities.
Most importantly, have fun! Relax, enjoy the experience, and let your love shine through the photos.

By incorporating your creativity and personal touch, you can transform your pre-wedding photoshoot into a truly unique and unforgettable experience that captures the essence of your love story.

Is a pre wedding shoot a bad idea if we're shy and don’t like kissing in public?

Not at all! A pre-wedding photoshoot doesn't have to involve anything you're not comfortable with, shy or not. Here's why it can still be a great idea and how to tailor it to your preferences:

Focus on capturing your connection: While traditional poses often involve kissing, your photos can focus on natural interactions, candid moments, and genuine emotion. Think hand-holding, walking together, laughing, sharing jokes, or simply gazing into each other's eyes. These can be incredibly romantic and authentic.

Choose a private location: Opt for secluded spots like gardens, forests, beaches, or even your own home to minimize public attention and feel more relaxed. Your photographer can suggest beautiful, intimate settings that align with your comfort level.

Communicate with your photographer: Explain your shyness and kissing preferences clearly. A professional photographer will understand and work with you to create comfortable and beautiful poses that showcase your love without pushing you out of your comfort zone.

Focus on activities you enjoy: Do you love exploring nature? Capture photos during a hike or picnic. Share a coffee or book at a cozy cafe. If you have shared hobbies, incorporate them into the shoot for natural, candid interactions.

Consider alternative expressions of love: Instead of kissing, embrace hand-holding, forehead kisses, gentle touches, or playful gestures. These smaller moments can be just as intimate and tell a beautiful story about your connection.

Remember, it's your shoot: Don't feel pressured to follow traditional norms. The goal is to capture authentic emotions and memories, not replicate generic poses. Discuss your desires openly with your photographer and create a plan that feels comfortable and enjoyable for both of you.