How to prepare for your pre-wedding/engagement shoot
One of the most common things we hear from couples when we have our initial conversations is that they are nervous about having their picture taken; that they’ve never done it before; or that they don’t really know what to expect.
We’re here to let you know you don’t need to worry - it’s really not scary, complicated, or difficult!
We really put an emphasis on putting people at ease on a shoot. It’s about having a laugh, helping you feel comfortable, and trying to capture what it is about you that people love.
What to wear?
Whether we’ve arranged to meet in a town, or we’ve planned to head out into the woods, we usually recommend a ‘smart casual’ sort of vibe for your pre-wedding shoot. Think - ‘heading out for some evening drinks with friends’ and you’ll be in the right area.
For gents, you can’t really go wrong with a button up shirt and a nice set of trousers/jeans. For the ladies - the world is pretty much your oyster - pretty summer dresses, trousers and boots, a polo top and leggings - if you’re in any doubt then please feel free to shoot us a message on instagram with some outfit ideas and we can lend a bit of guidance!
If it’s cold, then feel free to bring a coat.
If it’s muddy, then perhaps leave the stilettos at home!
The most important thing is that it needs to be something you’re comfortable in, and something you’d be happy to walk around in for an hour or so. If that means wellies and an overcoat for the Peak District, or a bikini and boardshorts for the Costa Blanca then just pick what makes sense.
What if it rains?!
While we love sunsets, and shooting during the golden hour - we can’t guarantee the weather on any individual day - especially if booked a long time in advance!
All we can really say is please take the weather, time of year, and where we are going into consideration when thinking about what sort of clothing you think would be appropriate. If it really looks like we’re going to be drenched, or snowed under then we can always rearrange!
What to bring?
Yourselves!
No, really, that’s the most important thing.
We don’t need 15 changes of clothing or any gimmicks to take great shots of you two in love. The only thing we might suggest is a small bag/handbag/rucksack in order to place phones, wallets, and any ‘touch up’ makeup you might want to bring along. This might get placed on the ground while we take shots, so don’t go bringing any Louis Vuitton unless you don’t mind it being placed on the floor for a second or two!
Hair and Makeup?
We suggest the same approach to hair and makeup as with your outfits - something you might do if you were going out for some drinks. We want you to look at the pictures afterwards and see yourself - if you don’t normally go bold and brash with colours or fake eyelashes, then this probably isn’t the time to start!
It’s also worth bearing in mind where we are going for your shoot - if we’re up on a gritstone edge in the peak district with windy weather - then it might be worth keeping long hair pinned back, or plaited rather than loose.
For gents, the same applies with facial hair - if you usually have some, then go for it. We can normally sort out any minor skin issues in the editing room, but if you are prone to cuts or razor rash, then please consider whether you’d be better off shaving the night before rather than just before leaving the house. You’ll save us a bunch of mouse clicks if you can arrive on top form!
Can we bring our dog?
WE
LOVE
DOGS
ON
SHOOTS
So HELL YEAH!
Bring them along!
If we’re heading outdoors then we usually bring our beautiful lurcher (Luna) for a run about. Please let us know if you, or your pooch don’t get on with others and we can leave our little speedster at home to sulk into her beanbag!
We’ve got hearts of stone!
Any other questions?
Just ask!
We’re always at the end of an email or phone call, so just drop us a line!
07525 475 890
@bowl.of.corks
hello@bowlofcorks.co.uk
And if you’d like to book us for a shoot - then drop us a message below.