Why would your wedding photographer offer you a free pre wedding shoot?

What's the point? Someone asked me this the other day.

Pre wedding shoots, aka engagement shoots: The Marmite of modern wedding photography. Many happy couples to be are opting to have one of these mini photo sessions in advance of their big day but why? Are they really necessary or are they just a bit of a gimmick?

They may have started out as a bit of an incentive to pick a particular photographer over another but from my perspective, they're worth the weight of my fully packed camera bag in 24 carat gold for us all. 

you don't have to pose for the camera...

Let's face it, the last time many of us 'posed' for a photo shoot may well have been at school, sat awkwardly in front of a dodgy curtain saying "cheeeeeeese". Sadly, this is what having our picture taken by a professional means to lots of us. Unsurprisingly, when we see the lens again some of us automatically resurrect that same awkward smile and begin to break in to a cold sweat. Not good look for anyone that. I've also seen people freeze up, breath in so hard that they go pink, stick their chest out, twist their torso in the belief that it makes them look thinner (that's me, I do that), adopt a comedy pose for no apparent reason, look at their watch then walk away and an array of other odd things. We may not be consciously aware of it but we all react in some way (though perhaps not as obviously as some of those I've just mentioned!). A pre wedding shoot gives your photographer a chance to see how comfortable you both are around a camera. They help you learn to ignore the lens and forget the school portrait smile, which will make for more natural photographs on the day itself.

This mini shoot is probably the first opportunity you'll have to see your photographer in action too. It might even be the first time you meet them in person. Skype is great but it's no where near as good as getting together in the flesh. Your relationship with your photographer is key. If you're all comfortable with each other you will get better photos, without doubt. These shoots allow you to do just that.

With me, they're also a chance to experiment with style and post production techniques. We can see if you prefer yourselves in monochrome or a little desaturated. It sounds slightly painful, but it's not.

They're also a good afternoon out. Of all the couples that have booked me to photograph their wedding, the majority were supremely apprehensive about a pre wedding shoot. Without exception though, every couple that has had one has come back to me to say how surprised they were at how painless it was and how much they enjoyed it. It's fun, honest!

Most professional wedding photographers will offer a pre wedding shoot option. Many will include it as part of your photography package, others may charge extra. Either way, I'd say opt for it. They're a great rehearsal. Personally, I include one for free with every booking. I don't offer a reduction in price if you choose not to have one as I actually want to encourage people to meet up and have a go. They don't last an age, are super relaxed and usually a bit of a giggle for all of us.

At the end of it, you should come away with a set of gorgeous images of the two of you to use in your wedding preparations or store in the virtual cupboard as you choose. Perhaps you could use one on a signing board on the day or have a guest book made with a selection of the images. They could feature on your wedding invitations or save the date cards or even form part of the venue decorations. Just avoid printing them on a balloon, that's rarely a good look either.

a personalised signing board can be a great alternative to a guest book

Still not convinced? Have a natter with your photographer about the details or drop me a line.