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Pre-wedding shoot

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Amina

If you, or someone you know, is planning to save the date, engagement, or pre wedding photo shoot, this blog is meant for you.

Some may question why someone would want a pre photo shoot but in all honesty, it is a way to get to know your photographer and their photographic style. Understanding one's wants and needs is very important when choosing the right photographer as well as the photographer choosing the right clients. Alongside, having a pre-event shoot will help the client to get comfortable in front of the cameras as well as allowing the photographer to determine if the client is someone they can easily work with as well.

Both parties should feel comfortable. No one wants a lagging photographer with no motivation to capture amazing shots and no photographer wants a constant complainer who is unhappy no matter how long time was spent on the shoot.

First things first, you need to find a photographer that can showcase your personality. Don’t go for someone, someone else referred to you too, just because their photos turned out pretty and you want to copy the same vibe. Perhaps that look does not compliment you, or the style of the photographer's photos are not as vibrant as you want. It is wise to look at the photographer's portfolio and style. Some photographers work best in outdoor settings while others prefer indoor studio/ venue vibes. You should have a fair idea of the look and style you are going for. If that photographer does not meet those needs, you should be wise to look elsewhere. In the end, if you choose the wrong photographer, it will only result in you being upset and blaming the photographer when it was solely your own bad judgment. The goal is to visualize yourself in the photographers body of work and once you do, you have found the right match for your shoot.

You should also read and ask about the fine print once you’ve booked a photographer. Many do not realize how quickly and booked up photographers actually are. What seems like an easy occupation, comes with major demands and responsibilities. Be on top of your preparations by asking the following questions:

Is the photographer available for the day and time needed?

Is there a booking fee/ paperwork that needs to be signed and completed prior to setting the date?

Providing a location and time in advance to confirm if the photographer is able to travel to the destination, and if so, what is the travel fee?

Are there any arrangements you’ve made for the photographer on the day of the shoot/ event? For example, a room or area to set up, etc.

Is the location you chose to take your photos allow picture taking? If so, are permits required and is there a fee? Those arrangements would be the responsibility of the client.

Is there additional cost/ charges for add ons- like prints, graphics, save the dates text, videos, photo books, etc.

Once you have confirmed everything, and all questions were answered, you're good to go and book your spot in their schedule! After booking, this is where you can really discuss details and ask your photographer for recommendations and advice on what you should do in order to prepare for your shoot. Be upfront and detailed with your photographer as this will provide the best details and needs you are expecting from them.

Choosing what to wear or accessorizing for your shoot can either help or make the photo look terrible. Communicating with your photographer on the style and color palettes you are going for will assist in preparing for a successful shoot. If you tell your photographer you're planning to wear matching jackets or matching colors, stick to the plan. Do not change it up at the last minute and not inform your photographer. Perhaps they prepared certain lenses to use and lighting equipment to compliment the choices you originally made. Next thing you know, none of the equipment can work and you’ve paid for a service that will not be fully functional. You can hire the best photographer, go to a beautiful location, but at the end of the day, it’s how you look that can make the shot work or look horrible.

Location is the gateway to a successful photo shoot. Being in a grand setting can make you appear larger than life. Properly choosing the right place to capture your shots is very important. Key reminder to choosing the proper location is to make sure you are allowed to photograph there to begin with. Some places only allow visitation and do not allow photo taking. Some places require a permit before allowing anyone to access the property. On the other hand, some couples may be shy, and not like the idea of others watching them as they pose in front of the camera. Finding a secluded area with a private setting like a beach, lake, farm house, back alley (not creepy), or a ruin area with character and charm, can be great options. It’s best to communicate with your photographer on the type of look you want to achieve when preparing for your shoot. Your photographer has visited many places, met many people, and can easily guide you in the direction of where is best. Another option but must be disclosed to your photographer is taking photos in multiple locations. Sometimes being adventurous and having versatility will bring out the model in you. Giving your photographer a heads up in your choices would allow them to properly prepare for both looks and locations.

The ultimate goal is for you to actually enjoy your photo shoot and not be miserable and uncomfortable the entire time. Remember that these photos are for the two of you to look back at for memories sake. Have fun, let loose, be yourself, and express your feelings throughout the process. That way everyone, including your partner, can know how to respond to your needs and make the process fun and enjoyable. Practice poses and positions you want to try beforehand so that you can get the first shot right and have enough time to do other looks as well.

In the end, these photos are going to be passed down, generation to generations. Making the best of the experience and enjoying one another through this process is key. Don’t try hard to compare or replicate someone else's looks. When you truly are being yourself and responding to the camera by pretending it’s not even there will give you the most beautiful and authentic shots between one another. No one sees the love you share with one another like you see within each other. It’s the hidden kisses and the subtle embraces that are meaningful and original.

XOXO, Blogs By Amina

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