Before the Wedding
23rd December 2017
Pre-wedding Photos – A must or a miss?
Two photographers share their thoughts on pre-wedding photoshoots with OurWedding, as well as some tips on how to make yours outstanding.
It has become very common and almost expected for engaged Maltese couples to hold a pre-wedding photo shoot ahead of their big day. The typical set up for such a photo shoot involves a scenic, deserted backdrop (which often requires a considerable effort from the photographer not to get any other people in the shoot, especially if the shoot is taking place on the beach in summer), moody lighting and the couple staring into each other’s eyes or locked in a passionate embrace in a way that brings to mind The Notebook. Of course, very few of us look like Ryan Gosling or Rachel McAdams, so pre-wedding photos have developed a reputation for being somewhat over-the-top.
"I personally find pre-wedding photo shoots a bit of a cliché and a cheesy way of presenting the couple,” says a local fashion and wedding photographer. “Most of my clients prefer a more contemporary approach to their wedding so I rarely get requests for such shoots; however I always push for different and fresh ideas. I believe that couples should plan their wedding day as they really wish to, and not follow the norm – they can look to Pinterest boards, magazines and blogs to source out inspiration.”
Of course, not all wedding photographers share this opinion. “While a pre-wedding photo shoot is not necessary for a great wedding and a fine collection of wedding photographs, there is something to be said about how the experience can add the ‘wow’ factor to your overall wedding plan. Pre‐wedding and engagement photo shoots are an excellent opportunity for couples to test out being in front of the camera and allows the chance to get to know the photographer,” says Matt Hush from Wedding Photos Malta. “For many people it is possibly the first and maybe the only time they will indulge in having professional photos taken and what’s great is that the shoot is taking place at a time when most people are looking fantastic and feeling their best.”
TIPS FOR A GOOD PRE-WEDDING PHOTO SHOOT
SKIP THE CLICHES
Go for a theme or location that really reflects your personalities and interests, such as the place where you first met, a passion you share, or a venue you frequent. Drop the Hollywood poses and infuse the photo series with the warmth and humour you share as a couple.
TAKE YOUR TIME
“The moment we introduce an external force into a natural environment, such as a big, scary camera, the scenario is no longer natural,” says Matt. “Taking time to create the perfect setting, winning trust and establishing the mood, alongside a pinch of patience and a little humour are the all-important ingredients to capturing special, unique and inspiring images.”
ENJOY YOURSELVES
“A single image can speak a thousand words, but I know I can forget about capturing that single image if my clients are anxious. Ultimately, I plan all of my photo shoots as an experience and I believe the participation should be as fun and rewarding as the final result.”