Pre-wedding Meeting and Engagement Portraits

All wedding packages include a meeting and an engagement portrait session before the wedding. This is in addition to a free consultation that's available prior to booking.

Portrait Session

We'll go for a walk, getting to know each other. I'll take some natural portraits in style of how I will work at the wedding so you know what to expect on the day.

You'll be able to practice being in front of the camera, however you'll hardily notice me with the exception of some subtle guidance. It is also an opportunity to eliminate any nerves you may have. I like to remain at a distance to capture your relationship naturally as you share sweet nothings and have fun. 

Any children you have are welcome too for some family portraits. This can be helpful for those who are shy to meet me before the wedding day.

Photography Requests

Over a coffee I'll talk you through visualising your wedding day explaining what I'll be doing at various parts of the day. A suggestion of recommended group portrait combinations will be altered to suit your guests and your preferences. You'll also be able to discuss any other requests.

Some couples are happy to give me a free rein to capture their day in a natural way whilst others have a clear vision or brief they have composed in their minds during their wedding planning.

Knowing your photography is planned to precision, but captured in a relaxed natural way to go with the flow of the day, will allow you to forget about it, relax and enjoy your celebrations.

Location

I feel it is important for the pre-wedding meeting to take place at the wedding venue. It is an opportunity for me to have a look around to get my bearings or make sure nothing has changed at venues I visit frequently. Venues can often be quieter than other public spaces giving a little more privacy for your portraits.

Most importantly it enables me to provide a personalised service by finding out why you chose the venue and if there any particular parts of the grounds you prefer as a backdrop for your portraits.

Some venues are limited with their outdoor areas so I often suggest taking a stroll to nearby gardens, countryside, woodland or riverside. If you have a particular place close by that is special to you, perhaps where you met or where the proposal took place it can be arranged to visit there instead for the portraits after visiting the venue beforehand. Logistics can be worked out to include a visit to a nearby beauty spot on your wedding day for couple portraits.

Date and Time

Session dates and times are flexible to suit your work patterns. Midweek early evenings are popular during British Summer Time when there is often natural romantic lighting.

Alternatively, a weekend morning can be arranged. This can also be a good opportunity to see your venue dressed for a wedding if they have one taking place later in the day.

Typically a pre-wedding meeting and portrait session takes place two months before however this can be flexible. If you plan to order invitations using your portraits you may wish to meet earlier during your wedding planning.

What to Wear

Wear clothes that you feel comfortable in. Match the clothing style of your partner and the location, for example a relaxed country walk or an evening out. Jeans always work well for a casual look and can be dressed up or down to suit your preferences. If your venue has a dress code for the date and time of the portrait session you may need to adhere to their rules.

The portrait session will be outside so a few layers might be required in the winter and under foot maybe muddy. Where possible the session can be kept to footpaths however, I'd recommend a broad heal, wedge or flat footwear if it is likely to be soft underfoot.

Complement each other with the colours you plan to wear too. Neutrals, pastel shades or deep colours work well harmoniously. Solid colours are preferred and try to avoid complicated patterns and large logos which can distract the eye on camera. If you like black and white photos it is best to wear contrasting light and dark tops to each other for a more striking effect.

If you plan to bring a bag, complement it to your outfits as it might be in your portraits, particularly if your session is taking place somewhere open to the general public.

What to Bring

A copy of any timings you have from your venue at this stage is useful for the second half of the meeting but don't worry if they aren't finalised. 

All props and outfit changes are optional. Quick clothing changes add to variety but keep it simple. Work with layers e.g. jumpers and coats to make changes quick so as not to take up your session time. Scarves, hats, coats with hoods, sunglasses can make great props too!

If you like sport you might decide to bring your football or rugby shirt for a few photos. Other props you may wish to consider bringing could include books, maps, bikes, golf clubs or something related to your proposal. You might even like a photo with your car or motorbike!

Pets are welcome too if permitted at your venue. They are part of your family and their unpredictability can also make for fun photos!

Your Portraits

Digital copies of your engagement portraits are included as part of all wedding packages and will be downloadable within a password protected client area. 

All other presentations including greeting cards as invitations, frames and prints are available to purchase.