Top Tips for Organising a Magical Pre-Wedding Photoshoot

Understanding the Importance of a Pre-Wedding Photoshoot

Your pre-wedding photoshoot is not just about getting pretty pictures. It's an opportunity for you and your partner to connect, have fun and create memories before the big day arrives. It helps you get comfortable in front of the camera and with your photographer. Plus, you can use these photos for your wedding website, invites, decor and more.

1. Choosing the Right Photographer for Your Pre-Wedding Photoshoot

The first step to nailing your pre-wedding photoshoot is finding a photographer who gets your vibe. Look for someone whose work you love and who has experience shooting couples. Schedule a meeting to discuss your expectations, share your story and see if you click.

Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Review their portfolio to get a sense of their style - candid, traditional, artistic
• See if they have shot at your preferred locations before
• Ask about their photography packages, rates and deliverables
• Discuss any specific photo ideas or requests you have
• Make sure you feel comfortable with their personality and communication style

Pro tip: For a hassle-free experience, consider booking a professional makeup artist and buying outfits from a trusted brand like Manyavar and Mohey. They offer a stunning selection of designer lehengas, sarees, gowns for women, and ethnic wear that are perfect for pre-wedding shoots.

2. Finding Pre-Wedding Photography Ideas for Inspiration

The key to getting photos you'll love is zeroing in on a concept that reflects your personality as a couple. Are you the adventurous kind who bonded over treks? A destination shoot in the mountains could be perfect. Childhood sweethearts? Revisit your school or college campus for a nostalgia-filled pre-wedding photoshoot.

Here are some popular pre-wedding photography ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

1. A romantic picnic or camping setup with fairy lights, flowers and boho props
2. Exploring your favorite city spots like cafes, museums, art galleries, monuments
3. Action shots doing a shared hobby like cooking, painting, biking or yoga
4. A Bollywood-inspired shoot with filmy poses, chiffon sarees, and dramatic locations
5. Candid at-home shots in coordinated loungewear or matching kurta sets
6. A royal themed shoot at a heritage palace or haveli in regal sherwanis and lehengas
7. A playful shoot at an amusement park, complete with cotton candy and Ferris wheel rides
8. A beach or poolside shoot in flowy dresses, chic indo-western gowns or resort wear

Remember, the more personal you make it, the more fun you'll have! Don't be afraid to think out of the box and bring props, signs or pets that showcase your bond.

3. Preparing for Your Pre-Wedding Photo Session

Decide your outfits in advance. Choose ensembles that complement each other without being too matchy-matchy.

• For a traditional vibe, consider regal sarees or lehengas for the bride-to-be, paired with a dapper kurta or sherwani set for the groom.
• Want something trendier? Experiment with multiple silhouettes like indo western for women such as crop top lehengas, sharara sets, or fusion gowns for women. Men can rock an asymmetric kurta with slim trousers or a quirky printed jacket, or even indo western sherwanis.

Top Tip: One of the better pre-wedding photography ideas is to opt for flowy fabrics that catch the wind beautifully, like chiffon or organza sarees. Gowns with trails or capes add dreamy movement to your shots.

• Start prepping your skin and hair at least a month in advance of your pre-wedding photoshoot. Drink plenty of water, eat clean, and indulge in some face masking sessions for that lit-from-within radiance.
• Practice your poses in front of the mirror. Tilting your chin down, angling your body, and finding your best side can make a huge difference.
• Make a shared Pinterest board with your partner to save pose inspiration, location ideas, and props you'd like to include.
• Pack an emergency kit with makeup touch-up essentials, safety pins, and comfy footwear options. You'll thank us later.
• Schedule a hair and makeup trial to finalise your look. Keep makeup fresh and dewy for a natural glow on camera.
• Visit the location beforehand to scout for stunning backdrops and plan your poses. This will save time on the day of the shoot.
• Get plenty of rest the night before. You want to look fresh and radiant, not tired and stressed!

Now that you have an idea of how to nail your pre-wedding photoshoot, time for some tips to help you ace your engagement photo shoot as well: 

Engagement Photoshoot Tips to Keep in Mind

• Coordinate, but don't match your outfits. Choose complementary colours and prints for a cohesive look that isn't too matchy-matchy. Stick to hues that flatter you:

1. Sarees or lehengas for women in rich, romantic hues
2. Sherwanis or a kurta for men in regal tones or lighter pastels
3. Avoid neon colours and loud prints that can be distracting in photos. 

• Accessorise mindfully—statement jhumkas, a string of pearls, or a regal mang tikka can elevate your ethnic wear look.
• Incorporate props that tell your story - maybe a book you both love, a souvenir from your first trip or even your fur baby!
• Focus on creating a comfortable vibe. Laugh, joke around, whisper silly things to each other. The more at ease you are, the better your photos will turn out.
• Trust your photographer's vision, but don't hesitate to speak up if you have pre-wedding photography ideas. It's a collaborative effort.
• Most importantly, have fun! This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so enjoy every moment of it.

Pro Tip: Plan your shoot 2-3 months before the wedding. This gives you plenty of time to use the photos for your invites or a signing book at the reception.

Letting your Chemistry Shine Through the Pictures

We hope these engagement photoshoot tips have left you feeling excited and inspired for your own pre-wedding photo session! Remember, the key is to relax, have fun, and let your love shine through.

So relax, let your chemistry shine through, and create memories you'll cherish for a lifetime. And when you need the perfect outfits to complement your vision, Manyavar's stunning range of ethnic and fusion wear has got you covered - from regal sherwanis to dreamy lehengas and everything in between.

Here's to love, laughter and a pre-wedding photoshoot that's straight out of the movies! May your love story be filled with frame-worthy moments.