Pre Wedding Shoot Experience
What is a Pre Wedding Shoot?
So you’re getting married and you’d like a great film to remember the big day.
Memories can fade, but video lasts forever. Finding a wedding cinematographer who makes you feel comfortable in front of the camera is so, so important.
Which brings us to pre wedding shoots, also known as engagement shoots, couple shoots and more.
A pre wedding shoot is a professional video shoot that takes place a few months or weeks before your wedding. It gives you the perfect opportunity to get to know your cinematographer and for us to get to know you, allowing us to tell your story in a more natural and meaningful way.
It’s also a chance to understand your vision for the wedding film. We can discuss logistics, ideas and the overall feel of your day in advance.
Ultimately, it all comes down to one thing - comfort and confidence. Getting to know each other beforehand helps you feel more relaxed, more natural and more confident in front of the camera.
How the Footage is Used
The pre shoot footage is used to help build the story of your main wedding film.
Your wedding trailer is created after the wedding and sits alongside your full wedding film, with pre shoot footage woven throughout to add depth, contrast and personality to your story.
More Than Just a Shoot
The ExperienceBreak it into 3 steps:
WHAT TO EXPECT
1. Planning
Choose a location, plan, styling and timing
2. Shooting
Relaxed, natural, cinematic, no awkward posing
3. Integration
Woven into your Wedding film
What Makes a Good Location?
The location you choose will have a huge impact on the overall look, feel and atmosphere
of your pre-wedding shoot.
The setting should offer strong, cinematic views, beautiful natural light
Locations with no drone restrictions are preferred
A good vantage point is key for building depth within your film
Please note that some locations may require permits or fees, this should be checked in advance
Avoid places that are overly busy or crowded
Weather plays a huge role. For destination shoots, it is important to avoid extreme heat, humidity or monsoon seasons. UK shoots are more flexible but may need rescheduling if conditions are not suitable. Avoid extremely cold locations where possible, as this can affect comfort and natural facial expressions on camera.
How do we choose the right location for our pre-wedding shoot?Start with what resonates with you as a couple. Think in terms of mood rather than geography. Do you feel drawn to mountains, beaches, heritage architecture or cityscapes? The best results come when the location aligns with your personality and the kind of story you want to tell.
Should we choose a UK location or travel abroad?
UK shoots are simpler, quicker and more cost-effective. Destination shoots offer a much wider visual range and often feel more elevated and cinematic. The decision usually comes down to how much you value the experience and the scale of visuals.
UK Pre Wedding Shoot
Weekdays only
Typically a one-day shoot (approx. 14:00 – 20:00)
Filmed around sunset (golden hour) for the best results
We do not shoot UK pre-shoots alongside a photographer to ensure we have full focus and time to capture the required footage
If weather conditions are poor, the shoot may need to be postponed
If shooting runs later than 20:00 and travel exceeds 2 hours, overnight accommodation may be required
Destination Pre Wedding Shoot
Weekdays only
With a photographer: typically requires 3 days
Without a photographer: typically requires 2 days
Includes multiple locations
Requires 3 outfits
We aim to travel early morning from the UK and return on an evening flight
Flights must be booked with either British Airways or EasyJet (due to hand luggage allowances for equipment)
If flying with EasyJet, speedy boarding is required to allow additional hand luggage (all camera equipment is carried onboard)
Shooting time is fully covered within your package
Preferred airports: Birmingham or Luton
Airport parking should be pre-booked by the client (short stay recommended due to equipment)
Car hire is required (typically one estate car shared between photo and video team)
We will shoot mainly at sunrise and sunset, in between this time there is usually a break to rest, reset and prepare for the next shoot. This is especially important in destination shoots to avoid burnout and keep the energy fresh for each session.
The pre shoot fee reflects our filming time. All travel, accommodation and meal expenses are to be covered by the client.
A Typical Structure:
Day 1: Arrival and sunset shoot
Day 2: Sunrise shoot, rest and sunset shoot
Day 3: Optional sunrise buffer followed by return travel
Outfits
What you wear matters
For Him: Clean. Tailored. Effortless.
For Her: Flowing. Elegant. Timeless.
Styling the Shoot
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Outfits are planned around location, light, and the overall story we are creating.
For UK shoots, we recommend 2 outfits. For destination shoots, we recommend 3 outfits. This allows us to create different looks across the shoot and gives the final film more depth and variation.
Typically, one look is styled for structured or architectural settings, and another for open landscapes or sunset. For destination shoots, the third look adds an extra layer of variety and helps elevate the overall film.
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Outfits that move naturally always work best on camera. The key is movement, not stiffness.
Floaty satin dresses are ideal as they catch the light beautifully and move effortlessly with the wind. We also recommend dresses with a slit, as this allows for better movement when walking and creates a more cinematic feel, especially as we capture a lot of motion throughout the shoot.
For a second look, Indian outfits such as a lengha can work really well, especially when styled in a more modern, fusion way rather than traditional. This creates a strong contrast and adds variety to the film.
The third look will depend on the location and overall styling, and we will guide you on this to make sure everything works together.
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Soft neutrals, whites, blacks, and pastels work beautifully on camera. You can also include one bold colour to create contrast within the environment.
This is especially important for drone shots. Choosing colours that stand out against the surroundings helps you visually pop within the frame. For example, in a desert setting, colours like black or red work very well, whereas tones similar to the sand would blend in and lose impact.
We recommend avoiding overly busy patterns or anything distracting, as the focus should always remain on you.
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The groom’s outfit should always complement the bride rather than compete with it.
We typically recommend:
A formal look such as a tux or suit for more structured scenes
A smart casual look such as a shirt with trousers and loafers for relaxed moments
A third look, if applicable, can be a modern Indian outfit, especially if the bride is also wearing Indian. This could be something like a Nehru jacket styled with fitted trousers or jeans and loafers
It is important that all outfits are coordinated together. We always recommend sharing outfit options with the media team in advance so we can guide you and ensure everything works well on camera.
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Absolutely. Cultural outfits can look stunning, especially when aligned with the location.
The key is making sure they allow movement and suit the environment. Heavier or more restrictive outfits can limit how we shoot, so styling them in a more modern or fusion way often works best.
We strongly recommend checking all outfit choices with the media team before confirming, so we can ensure everything works visually and practically on the day.
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This is completely optional.
As the shoot is video-based and movement-driven, many clients prefer a more natural look. Unlike photography, where images are static, video captures constant movement, so a natural and comfortable look often works best.
Some clients choose to book a hairstylist rather than a full makeup artist. It comes down to what you feel most confident in.
For destination shoots, we do not recommend flying out a UK-based makeup artist as this can significantly increase costs. If needed, hiring someone locally is usually the better option.
If you do book hair or makeup, you will need to be fully ready at least 1 to 1.5 hours before sunrise for early morning shoots.
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Bring essentials such as makeup for touch-ups, hairpins, hairspray, and comfortable footwear.
For brides, trainers are especially useful for moving between locations quickly and comfortably.
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ASOS (next-day delivery available)
Amanei.co.uk (dress hire, based in West London)
Club L London
Ever Pretty
Shein
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wear underneath directly affects how comfortable and confident you feel.
When you feel at ease, it shows on camera. When you don’t, it shows even more.
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Think beyond how it looks when standing still. Consider how it behaves when you walk, turn, sit, or when there is wind.
Seamless innerwear is key. Avoid anything with thick seams, lace edges, or textures that may show through the outfit.
The goal is for everything to look clean and smooth on camera while feeling secure at all times.
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Yes, especially for outfits with lower necklines or where you want more structure.
Fashion tape helps keep everything in place so you do not need to keep adjusting your outfit, allowing you to move freely and comfortably.
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For dresses with high slits or lightweight fabrics, especially in windy locations, we strongly recommend seamless shorts or fitted innerwear for coverage and comfort.
It is best to choose nude or skin-toned options that match your complexion. Darker colours can become visible depending on lighting and movement.
This ensures everything looks clean on camera while still allowing the outfit to move naturally.
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Make sure you try your full look with the exact innerwear beforehand.
Rental outfits in particular may require specific solutions, so it is important to test everything in advance rather than figuring it out on the day.
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Do a full trial before the shoot.
Walk, sit, move, and test how everything feels. If anything feels like it might slip, show, or need constant adjusting, fix it beforehand.
The goal is to feel completely comfortable so you can focus on enjoying the shoot.
Planning & Logistics
Everything is planned to keep the shoot smooth, efficient, and focused on capturing the best possible result.
Timing
We plan the day around light, not the clock.
Shoots are typically scheduled for sunrise and sunset to achieve the most cinematic results.
Transport
Car hire is essential for destination shoots.
This allows us to move efficiently between locations, especially during sunrise and sunset windows where timing is critical. This can be arranged either by you or by us and billed back.
Flights
For destination shoots, we always books his own flights (non-negotiable). Flights are planned to maximise shooting time, usually early departures. Preferred airlines like British Airways or EasyJet are chosen due to baggage requirements for equipment.
Weather
For UK shoots, we can reschedule. For destination shoots, buffer days are built into the plan to allow flexibility without compromising results.
Accommodation
Hotels are recommended over other options. They should be clean, comfortable and ideally located within 15-20 minutes of your shoot locations to minimise travel time. Never shared accommodation.
What to Bring
Bring essentials like makeup for touch-ups, hairpins and comfortable footwear. For brides, trainers are especially helpful for moving between locations. Also light snacks to keep your energy throughout the shoot.
The Experience
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The experience is relaxed, immersive, and intentionally unhurried. While we guide you throughout, the focus is on natural interaction rather than posing or performing.
We often keep the energy high with music, conversation, and movement so it feels less like a shoot and more like a shared experience. Feel free to bring your favourite playlist, relive your first dance, or just be playful with it.
At the same time, we understand this may be completely new for you. We will always give direction when needed, helping with positioning and making sure you are looking your best on camera throughout.
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Lighting is everything. Sunrise and sunset provide soft, flattering light, richer colours, and a more cinematic feel.
Midday light is much harsher and creates strong shadows, which is why we avoid it where possible. However, if needed, we can still shoot during midday by using shaded areas or controlled locations.
The most important parts of the day are always sunrise and sunset. This is where the best visuals come from. Shoot days can feel long, especially on destination shoots, but this is what allows us to capture everything at the highest level without compromising quality.
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It is important to treat this as an experience, not just a shoot. You may be moving between locations, so staying hydrated, getting proper rest the night before, and pacing yourself throughout the day really matters.
We will always plan breaks into the day. This includes time to stop for food, have snacks, and reset. There will also be downtime between sessions for you to relax, change outfits, and recharge before heading out again.
The more comfortable and present you feel, the more natural the footage will look.
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You should bring water, snacks, comfortable footwear, touch-up essentials, and your outfit changes.
It is also a good idea to keep an extra outfit in the car where possible. Sometimes we come across unexpected locations that work perfectly, and having that option allows us to take advantage of those moments without needing to return to the hotel.
Sunglasses are also useful, especially in brighter conditions. They not only help with comfort but can also add a strong stylistic look to your film.
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Yes, and this is one of the best times to do it. If you would like to exchange personal vows or read something meaningful to each other, the pre-shoot offers a quiet, uninterrupted setting that often feels more intimate than the wedding day itself.
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You will be guided throughout, but never forced into rigid poses. The approach is fluid and responsive, allowing moments to unfold naturally while we subtly direct where needed.
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Most of our pre-wedding shoots are video-focused. We only allow a small number of pre-approved photographers who understand and align with our process.
Content creators are not permitted, as they tend to disrupt the flow and creative direction of the shoot.
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We strongly discourage it. The best results come when it is just the two of you, fully present and focused, without distractions.
Things to Avoid
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This is not something to “get done.” The more you slow down and stay present, the more natural and cinematic your film will feel. Rushing between locations or trying to “cover everything” usually takes away from the experience.
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Outfits that are too heavy, restrictive, or overly detailed can limit movement and make the day physically tiring. Keep it elegant, comfortable, and easy to move in. If you’re uncomfortable, it will show on camera.
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Shoot days can be long, often starting early and ending at sunset. If you’re tired, dehydrated, or low on energy, it directly impacts how you feel and how you come across on film. Take care of yourself like you would for an important day.
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Having friends, family, or extra people around can make the experience feel crowded and distracting. The best results happen when it’s just the two of you, fully present and connected.
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Leaving outfits, logistics, or permissions to the last minute creates unnecessary stress. The more clarity you have in advance, the smoother and more enjoyable the experience will be.
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A location should feel right for you, not just look good on Instagram. The best shoots happen when the place aligns with your personality and story, not trends.
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This isn’t about getting every frame right. It’s about connection, movement, and emotion. Trying too hard to pose or perform often takes away from the authenticity we’re trying to capture.
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Wanting to shoot at “convenient” times instead of sunrise or sunset can compromise the final result. Trust the timing, even if it means early mornings or waiting for the right light.
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This is one of the rare moments in your wedding journey where you can pause and just be together. Bring your energy, your music, your inside jokes. The more you enjoy it, the more it shows.
FAQs
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Not essential — but it’s what takes your film from “wedding video” to something cinematic and personal. It gives us time, space and control to create moments we simply can’t on the wedding day. However, a pre shoot is essential if you would like a same day/next day edit.
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Couples usually choose this when they want something more intentional and cinematic rather than just documenting events. It gives you time away from the pressure of the wedding to connect naturally, explore a beautiful location and create something that feels like you. For most couples, this becomes one of the most memorable parts of their entire wedding journey.
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UK shoots are typically 1 day and more relaxed.
Destination shoots are 2–3 days and allow for multiple locations, better light and a more elevated, cinematic feel. -
Long-haul shoots typically require a minimum of 4 days to account for travel fatigue, time zone changes and the scale of locations. These shoots are designed to be more immersive and cinematic, often involving larger landscapes and more planning.
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Yes, we blend pre-shoot footage with your trailer and wedding film to create a more complete, story-driven film.
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Ideally 3–6 months before the wedding. It depends on location — some places are better in winter to avoid heat or monsoon season.
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Yes. Once you share your preferences, we guide you on the best locations, ideal months and how to structure the shoot for the best results. This includes factoring in weather, light and logistics.
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UK shoots typically include one or two locations. Destination shoots allow for multiple locations across different days, often combining sunrise and sunset scenes for variety and depth.
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Ideally, everything should be locked in at least a few months in advance, especially for destination shoots where availability, pricing and permits can vary.
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Think clean, timeless, avoid heavy patterns and loud branding. The above images are inspo outfits for brides and grooms. We recommend sending us pictures of your outfits early before the shoot. We’ll guide you on outfits once the location is locked so everything feels cohesive.
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ASOS (They also do next day delivery)
Club L LondonAmanei Dresses - Hires dresses and is based in West London
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Yes, and this is highly encouraged. Some couples include handwritten vows, letters, or small personal elements that reflect their story. These moments often add emotional depth and make your film feel truly personal.
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In most cases, yes - especially for estates, landmarks or private venues.
We’ll advise, but securing permits is the client’s responsibility. When enquiring please request for a ‘photo pre shoot’. -
For UK shoots, we can reschedule. For destination shoots, buffer days are built into the plan to allow flexibility without compromising results.
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No — this is just for the two of you.
It keeps the environment focused, relaxed and allows us to create properly. -
Everyone does at the start.
Give it 10 minutes — once you settle in, it becomes natural. That’s where the real moments come from. The entire experience is designed to ease you into it. The focus is not on posing but on natural interaction. As you spend time during the shoot, you become more comfortable, which translates into more relaxed and authentic footage.