Why is a Wedding Pre-Shoot so Important?

Neil Tinson of A1 Photogenics is an experienced wedding photographer based in Swindon, Wiltshire, and he knows just how important a wedding pre-shoot is...and here he explains why:

Says Neil:

Your wedding day is one of the most, if not THE most important days in your life. You have planned it for a long time and spent lots of money in making sure it is what you want.

Long after the cake is eaten, the music is finished and your guests have gone, your photos for years to come are the physical memories you have to remember your special day.

You will be spending a big part of the day with your photographer. He will seem like a friend to you all at the end of the day, so he needs to be someone you will get along with, someone who is polite, friendly and someone you feel comfortable with. If you are not comfortable, then it will show in the photos.

A pre-wedding shoot is designed to be a bit of fun, but at the same time serious; it’s an opportunity for you both to get to know your photographer, his photos and his style. I always recommend at least an hour together.

Normally, if conditions allow, it’s best for the pre-wedding shoot to take place at your wedding venue as it’s a good opportunity to walk through the grounds with your photographer and point out particular places to have photos for your couples portraits on your wedding day. Alternatively, I recommend that you go to a local park or gardens, anywhere that is informal and relaxed.

A pre-wedding shoot also allows you to take direction from your photographer, who will guide you through the poses on the day making you more relaxed, so you know what to expect.

I always ask my clients to dress casually, but comfortable. A lot of the poses I do are ones that will be reproduced on the day and some that won’t, it’s just to make you relax and enjoy the occasion and have a good time.

It’s also a good time to ask your photographer any questions or worries you may have, and also come up with any images or ideas you may have of your own, as having input is very important – especially if you want to share your ‘best side’!

Remember your photographer is there to work with you and create some amazing images, not work against you, or do things you are not comfortable doing.

Enjoy, and congratulations!

You can find out more about A1 Photogenics' wedding photography services by clicking HERE!

Happy planning!