The Simple Session That Makes You Feel Comfortable, Confident, and Camera-Ready

If you’re knee-deep in wedding planning, you’ve probably seen the term “pre-wedding shoot” or “engagement shoot” thrown around — and maybe wondered if it’s just another thing to add to your already growing to-do list.

Spoiler alert: I genuinely believe pre-wedding shoots are more than worth it. That’s why I include them as standard in all my full-day wedding photography packages.

This isn’t about cheesy poses or making you feel awkward in front of the camera. Quite the opposite, actually.

Here’s why I think they matter so much — and why so many of my couples end up saying it was one of the best decisions they made.

1. You Get to Know Me (and I Get to Know You)

A pre-wedding shoot gives us the chance to hang out properly before the wedding day. No pressure. No timeline. No one watching.

We get to chat, joke around, and you get a feel for how I work behind the camera — which is very relaxed and natural. By the time your wedding day arrives, I’m not just “the photographer”, I’m someone you feel comfortable with. That rapport makes a big difference in the photos we create together.

2. You’ll Feel More Relaxed in Front of the Camera

Let’s be honest — most people hate having their photo taken. If that’s you, you’re not alone. I work with loads of couples who say exactly that in their first message to me.

The pre-wedding shoot takes away the mystery and awkwardness. You’ll see how I shoot, realise it’s not scary at all, and feel way more at ease on the day itself. That ease and confidence? It shows up in your photos.

3. Your Guests Pick Up on Your Vibe

This one’s a bit unexpected — but so important. When you’re relaxed with me, your guests relax with me too. That means I can blend in better, get closer, and capture those raw, unfiltered moments that happen when people forget there’s a camera around.

It creates a kind of ripple effect. The more comfortable you are, the more natural the entire gallery feels.

4. You Get Lovely Photos Before the Wedding

This one’s the cherry on top. You’ll get a set of beautiful, informal photos of you two just being yourselves — no suits, no dresses, no pressure. Couples often use them for:

Wedding invites or save-the-dates
Signing boards or guest books
Just having a set of photos they actually love and feel like them

5. It’s All Part of the Experience

I include a pre-wedding shoot with every full-day package because I’ve seen the impact it has — not just on the photos, but on the whole experience. It builds trust, connection, and confidence, and gives you space to just enjoy yourselves before the big day.

Think of it like a warm-up — but a really good one, where you leave smiling, not sore.

Final Thought

So, are pre-wedding shoots worth it? 100% yes — and not just for the photos.

They set the tone. They build connection. They make the wedding day flow better. And if you’re someone who thinks, “I hate having my photo taken,” then this might be exactly what helps you feel differently.

Want to know more or book yours in? Drop me a message — I’d love to chat about your plans.