What to Expect During a Pre-Wedding Shoot

If you’re recently engaged, congratulations! Planning your wedding is an incredibly exciting time, filled with important milestones, cherished moments, and plenty of planning. One of the key experiences many couples look forward to is their pre-wedding photoshoot. As a Wellington photographer specialising in weddings and engagements, I often get asked what exactly happens during a pre-wedding session. Today, I want to take you behind the scenes to give you a real sense of what you can expect, so you can relax, have fun, and capture some beautiful memories before your big day.

Why Do a Pre-Wedding Photoshoot?

First things first—why should you even consider a pre-wedding photoshoot? Simply put, this session offers you the perfect opportunity to get comfortable in front of the camera, build rapport with your photographer (that’s me!), and create stunning imagery you can cherish forever.

A pre-wedding shoot gives you space to relax and enjoy each other’s company without the pressures of the wedding day schedule. It’s an ideal way to capture your unique love story, showcasing your personality and connection in a relaxed, authentic manner. Plus, these images make fantastic additions to your wedding invitations, websites, guestbooks, or even as décor for your reception.

Planning Your Pre-Wedding Shoot

I always encourage couples to choose a location that’s meaningful to them. Perhaps it’s the café where you first met, Wellington’s beautiful waterfront where you had your first date, or a scenic spot that reflects your shared love of the outdoors. New Zealand is blessed with amazing natural beauty, from Wellington’s rugged coastline and Mount Victoria lookout to the lush greenery at the Botanic Gardens or Otari-Wilton’s Bush. Choosing the right setting can add deeper significance and personal touches to your images.

We’ll discuss your vision together beforehand, including the style of photography you prefer—whether it’s romantic, candid, playful, or a mix of everything! We’ll also talk about clothing choices, timing, and any props or personal items you’d like to include to make your photos truly meaningful.

Feeling Comfortable in Front of the Camera

One of the biggest concerns I hear from couples is feeling awkward or self-conscious about being photographed. Trust me, you’re not alone! My approach is friendly, relaxed, and natural. I’ll guide you gently through poses and interactions, helping you feel at ease. Before you know it, you’ll be laughing, enjoying the experience, and forgetting that the camera is even there.

I often start sessions with simple, candid shots to help you both relax and settle into the flow. As the session progresses, I’ll suggest movements and poses that showcase your genuine connection, keeping things natural and authentic. My goal is always to capture your true personalities and the unique bond between you.

What to Wear for Your Pre-Wedding Photoshoot

Choosing outfits can feel overwhelming, but the key is to wear something comfortable, stylish, and representative of your personality. You want to look and feel your best, but also keep your clothing practical for the location and weather. Wellington’s famously unpredictable climate means layers are always a good idea!

Neutrals, pastels, or complementary colours work beautifully in photographs. Avoid overly bright patterns or logos that might distract from your faces. Feel free to bring a change of clothes, too, if you’d like to vary your looks during the session. Most importantly, wear something that makes you feel confident and genuinely you.

What to Bring Along to Your Session

Aside from your outfits, consider bringing along a few meaningful props or items. Maybe it’s a picnic blanket, favourite books, musical instruments, or even your beloved pet. Including personal items helps tell your story in an authentic way and gives your photos an extra touch of character and charm.

It’s also wise to bring some comfortable shoes or jackets, especially if we’re heading to multiple locations around Wellington or venturing into nature. Being prepared means you can fully relax and enjoy the experience.

Timing and Scheduling Your Shoot

The best time for pre-wedding photos is typically during the “golden hour”—that magical time just after sunrise or before sunset when the natural light is soft, warm, and flattering. In Wellington, locations such as Oriental Bay or Makara Beach look especially stunning at these times.

I always suggest scheduling your pre-wedding session at least two months before your wedding day. This gives us ample time to capture, edit, and deliver your images, so you can use them in your wedding preparations if you wish.

Capturing Your Unique Love Story

Every couple is different, and one of my favourite aspects of being a photographer is discovering and capturing your unique connection. I’ll observe quietly or gently guide you, capturing authentic moments as they unfold—those spontaneous laughs, tender glances, and playful interactions that truly represent who you are together.

By the end of your pre-wedding shoot, you’ll feel comfortable, confident, and excited about your wedding day photography. You’ll also have stunning images that beautifully capture your love story, perfect for sharing with family and friends or displaying proudly in your home.

Capturing those fleeting moments is what I love most about photography. If you’re planning your special day in Wellington or anywhere around New Zealand, I’d be delighted to help you create lasting memories through beautiful imagery. Feel free to reach out—I’d love to hear about your wedding plans and how we can work together to capture your story.