Pre Wedding Photos

The Gentle Beginning of Your Love Story

Joyful portrait of couple laughing in forest, arms wrapped in a loving embrace.

The Calm Before “I Do”

There’s a beautiful stillness between “yes” and “I do.”
It’s the moment where everything slows down, before the chaos, the vows, the crowd. Just you two, caught somewhere between excitement and calm.

That’s what pre-wedding photos are about: capturing the quiet joy and connection before your big day.

As a Bristol-based photographer, I see these sessions as a gentle warm-up before your wedding. They help you relax in front of the camera, get to know your photographer, and create beautiful, meaningful images to treasure long after the day is over.

Because sometimes, the story before the wedding is the one you’ll love the most.

What Are Pre-Wedding Photos

(and how they differ from engagement shoots)

If you’ve ever typed “what are pre-wedding photos?” into Google, you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common questions couples ask when we start chatting about photography timelines.

Simply put, pre-wedding photos are a relaxed, intentional photoshoot taken a few weeks or months before your wedding day. They’re a little different from engagement sessions, which usually happen soon after the proposal.

Couple holding each other by riverside at twilight, framed by leaves and glowing sunset reflections.

Where engagement photos celebrate your new chapter, pre-wedding photos capture the anticipation before the next one. Think of it as a pause before the celebration, a way to breathe, connect, and document the quiet joy leading up to your big day.

It’s a chance to:

  • Get comfortable in front of the camera
  • Strengthen your connection as a couple
  • Create keepsake images you’ll treasure long after the vows
Start Your Journey

(If you’re earlier in your journey and looking for engagement photos, hop over to my Engagement page to explore that next step.)

Why Couples Love Having a Pre Wedding Photoshoot

Every couple I’ve photographed has told me the same thing:
“We didn’t realise how much we needed this.”

A pre-wedding session is more than a warm-up. It’s a memory in itself. Here’s why couples fall in love with the idea (and with each other all over again).

Close-up pre wedding photo of couple’s hands and engagement rings, intimate golden light Bristol session.

1. You’ll feel Confident on Your Wedding Day

Standing in front of a camera can feel strange at first, and that’s totally okay. But the more familiar it feels, the more relaxed you’ll be when the big day arrives.

Pre-wedding photos are a chance to practice being yourselves while someone documents it beautifully. You’ll learn how to move together naturally, what lighting flatters you, and what moments truly feel like you.

2. You’ll Strengthen Your Connection

Life gets busy when you’re wedding planning. This shoot is a rare pause, an afternoon where it’s just the two of you, away from guest lists and spreadsheets.

You’ll laugh. Maybe trip over each other a little. Remember what it’s all really about.

Tender moment of man kissing woman’s forehead, emotional pre wedding moment.

3. You’ll Have Photos You Can Actually Use

So many couples end up using pre-wedding photos for:

  • Save-the-date cards (hello, Canva templates)
  • Wedding invites
  • Decor for your venue
  • Guest books
  • Wall art for your home

You can even design something personalised through Etsy or print your favourites via your online gallery.

Romantic pre wedding photoshoot in Bristol under moonlight, couple silhouette against deep blue night sky.

4. It’s Basically a Mini Date with a Camera

Whether it’s exploring the city streets of Bristol, a wander through a Woods, or a golden-hour stroll by Clifton Suspension Bridge the experience itself becomes a memory.

You’ll end the session with sore cheeks from laughing and photos that feel real, not staged.

5. It Captures the Chapter Before Forever

These aren’t wedding portraits or engagement announcements. They’re the messy, beautiful, in-between the everyday details that tell your story.

The way you look at each other when no one’s watching. The comfort of hands intertwined. The quiet joy of knowing what’s coming next.

Tender portrait of couple leaning in for a kiss, soft light capturing quiet affection.

6. Discover Your Best Light

I love shooting around Bristol in golden hour: that soft, cinematic light that makes everything glow. Sometimes I’ll bring flash into play for contrast and drama, creating that bold, editorial feel that defines Emerald Photo’s style.

It’s not about perfection; it’s about presence. Light and shadow, touch and texture, that’s where real emotion lives.

7. It’s the Perfect Beginning to Your Wedding Story

Pre-wedding photos often end up in wedding albums or slideshows. They become the first page in the story of your day.

Your grandchildren won’t just see how you looked, they’ll see how it felt.

Start Your Journey

(Not ready yet? Why don’t you download my wedding planning guide?)

Pre Wedding Photoshoot Ideas You’ll Actually Want to Try

Silhouette of couple embracing by the water at sunset, dramatic golden light and soft evening sky.

Every couple brings something unique, whether that’s their story, their vibe or they style, and your pre-wedding photos should reflect that.
There’s no rulebook here. Just you, your story, and a few ideas to get your imagination going.

Outdoor Escapes Near Bristol & Somerset

If you love the idea of open skies and soft light, you’re spoiled for choice around here.
Some of my favourite pre-wedding photos have been taken in places that feel a little wild and full of texture where the wind catches your hair and the light plays hide-and-seek through the trees.

Here are a few beautiful spots that never disappoint:

  • Clifton Suspension Bridge – Iconic, romantic, and timeless. That golden-hour glow over the Avon Gorge? Magic.
  • Leigh Woods – Dreamy and secluded, with that quiet forest calm that makes every photo feel cinematic.
  • Ashton Court Estate – Rolling fields, long grass, and sunlight that looks painted.
  • Brandon Hill Park – Perfect for couples who want city views mixed with greenery.
  • Bath City Centre – Cobblestones, architecture, and the kind of light that makes every frame feel like a film still.
Pre wedding photoshoot at Clifton Suspension Bridge Bristol, night portrait with city lights and romantic connection.

Want to go further afield? The Somerset countryside and Cheddar Gorge offer vast landscapes that feel adventurous yet intimate.

City Vibes vs. Countryside Calm

Urban sessions have their own rhythm. Imagine walking through Bristol’s Harbourside or the colourful streets near Clifton Village, hand in hand, grabbing a coffee, laughing mid-conversation. Those photos often feel effortless and full of personality.

But if you prefer something quieter, a countryside or woodland setting lets you breathe. Long grass, textured skies, and natural light help tell your story in a softer, more romantic way.

Whichever you choose, I always recommend planning around golden hour: that soft, low light just before sunset. It’s flattering, cinematic, and adds depth to every image.

Couple standing together in forest clearing surrounded by tall trees, cinematic composition with deep greens.

Outfit Inspiration for Your Pre Wedding Photos

Forget matching outfits. Choose clothes that move with you and reflect your personality.

Think of it as “date night with better lighting.”

For her: flowy dresses, textured fabrics, bold colours if that’s your thing, something that feels alive in the wind.
For him: smart-casual layers, open collars, and soft contrast tones.

A few go-to favourites couples love:

  • ASOS – versatile, modern, and easy to coordinate.
  • ZARA – clean lines and bold tones that photograph beautifully.
  • Marks & Spencer – timeless pieces that still feel natural.
  • Etsy – for one-of-a-kind accessories that make the look yours.

Bring a jacket or accessory that adds character: a hat, scarf, or even a pair of sunglasses for playful shots.
And if you’re unsure, send me your options before the shoot. I’m always happy to help you choose what works best for light, texture, and mood.

Couple dancing in woodland path capturing playful motion and connection.

Add Your Personality with Props

The best photos often come from doing something together: not standing still and smiling.

Bring a few small things that make sense for you:

  • Champagne to pop and laugh over.
  • A blanket for sitting in the grass or on the harbour wall.
  • A bunch of flowers or your favourite takeaway coffee cups.
  • Your dog (always welcome).
  • Vintage car, bicycle, or something sentimental.

These little details create natural movement and emotion, and make the session feel more like a memory than a photoshoot.

Couple celebrating in forest with champagne spray, joyful pre-wedding moment full of laughter and energy.

For the Artistically Curious

If you love something a bit moodier and more editorial, this is where I thrive.
I often use creative flash, deep shadows, and bold colours to bring out that cinematic edge.

We’ll play with reflections, double exposures, or even neon lights in the city at night if you’re up for it.
It’s still honest and documentary, just with an extra layer of art, like your love story turned into a visual poem.

Pre wedding photoshoot Bristol couple sitting under oak tree, reflection creating cinematic composition with natural light.
Start Your Journey

(Not ready yet? Why don’t you download my wedding planning guide?)

Planning the Perfect Pre-Wedding Photoshoot

This part’s for the planners, because a little preparation goes a long way to making the experience feel easy, fun, and totally you.

When to Schedule It

Ideally, plan your pre-wedding session 2–3 months before your wedding day. That gives you plenty of time to relax, choose outfits, and even use the photos for your invitations or guest book.

As for time of day? Always aim for golden hour: that soft, directional light that makes everything glow. Morning light can also be beautiful if you love something calm and misty.

Golden hour pre wedding photos capturing couple’s silhouette, warm sunlight and romantic connection in Bristol countryside.

How to Prepare

Here’s what I recommend to every couple before their shoot:

  • Pick a location that feels right for you – where you met, your favourite weekend spot, or somewhere you’ve always wanted to visit.
  • Coordinate your outfits – without matching completely.
  • Bring a few personal touches – flowers, a picnic blanket, coffee, or champagne.
  • Plan to move – walk, dance, twirl, laugh. Movement brings photos to life.
  • Most importantly: don’t overthink it.

The best images come from being present, not perfect.

What Happens After the Shoot

Once your session’s done, I’ll go through each image carefully, adjusting light, contrast, and tone so your gallery feels like a story, not just a folder of photos.

You’ll receive a link to your online gallery, where you can view, download, and order prints or albums.
If you’d like to create a Save the Date or wall art, I can help you design that too.

Most couples receive their full gallery within 3–4 weeks, and you’ll always get a little preview sooner, because I know waiting is hard..

What to Expect During Your Pre-Wedding Photoshoot

Every couple asks, “What do we actually do?”

Here’s the truth: there’s no right or wrong. I’ll guide you just enough to keep you comfortable, but never so much that it feels staged.

Before the Shoot

We’ll chat about your story, your energy, and what kind of images you’re drawn to.
I’ll help you pick the best time, location, and lighting for your shoot whether that’s a glowing sunset over Clifton Suspension Bridge or a moody woodland morning in Leigh Woods.

During the Shoot

My approach is relaxed, observational, and built on connection.
You don’t need to know what to do, I’ll gently guide you when needed, but mostly I’ll let you be yourselves.

You’ll probably forget there’s even a camera at some point, which is exactly how it should be.

After the Shoot

You’ll get a preview within a few days (because patience is overrated when you’re excited).
The full gallery arrives ready to download, share, and use however you like, from prints to slideshows to décor for your wedding.

And if you love the experience (most couples do), it’s a natural step toward your full-day coverage.
You can explore that next over on my What to Expect page.

Candid pre wedding photos at sunset, couple sitting close together under trees in soft golden hour light.
Start Your Journey

(Not ready yet? Why don’t you download my wedding planning guide?)

FAQs About Pre-Wedding Photos

Every couple’s story is different, but these are the questions that pop up most before a session.
Let’s make things simple before the nerves (or the spreadsheets) kick in.

A pre-wedding shoot is a relaxed, storytelling-style photoshoot that usually takes place a few weeks or months before your wedding day.
It’s your chance to slow down together before everything gets busy: to reconnect, laugh, and capture your love in a setting that feels natural to you.

And yes, they’re meant to be fun. Just the two of you, exactly as you are.

Pre-wedding sessions with Emerald Photo UK are ÂŁ350 and include:

  • 60–90 minutes of photography
  • Location and outfit guidance
  • A fully edited online gallery (50–80 images)
  • Sneak peek within a few days
  • Access to your private print shop

You can book it on its own or add it to your package.

Clothes can really shape the look and feel of your photos, but don’t overthink it. Choose pieces that make you feel confident, comfortable, and “you.”

If we’re shooting outdoors, think about how things move in the light:

  • Flowing fabrics or textures that catch the breeze
  • Layers and accessories that add interest (jackets, scarves, hats)
  • Comfortable shoes

If you’d like help picking outfits, send me your options before the day: I’m always happy to give feedback on what photographs best with the lights and backdrop.

Absolutely!
Anything that makes the session feel like you belongs in it. Dogs, champagne, your favourite snacks, a picnic, or even your morning coffee run, these are the little details that tell your story.

Some couples bring a blanket, a record player, or even bikes for a fun twist. Others keep it simple with hand-holding, laughter, and a bottle of bubbles. Either way, it’s those unplanned, real moments that make the photos magic.

We live in the UK, so the chance of a little rain is basically a guarantee!

Light drizzle? We’ll keep shooting, umbrellas and reflections can look incredible.
If it really pours, we’ll reschedule.
Bristol weather is unpredictable, but it always gives us something beautiful to work with.

Most pre-wedding shoots last 60–90 minutes. That’s plenty of time to warm up, wander around, and find your rhythm.

We’ll move, chat, and explore: no pressure, no rushing. It’s all about creating a relaxed space where you can forget the camera’s even there.

You’ll receive a little sneak peek within a few days (because who wants to wait?).
The full gallery will be ready in about 3–4 weeks, carefully edited in my signature style: bold colours, real moments, beautiful contrast, and honest light.

All images are delivered through your Pictime gallery, where you can also order prints, albums, or wall art directly.

My biggest package include a pre-wedding session, especially for couples who want that extra time to feel comfortable before the big day,

Even if you going for my smaller package you can always add it on.

Most couples find it’s one of the best decisions they make, it builds trust, confidence, and excitement for the wedding itself.

Yes, please!
I’m based in Bristol, but I often travel across Somerset, Bath, the Cotswolds, and South Wales for pre-wedding sessions.

If there’s somewhere meaningful to you, maybe where you met, or a view you love, we can absolutely plan your shoot there.

Not at all.
You don’t need to “know” how to pose, I’ll guide you gently when needed but mostly let you do your thing.

The best photos happen when you’re relaxed, moving, laughing, and being yourselves.
Even if you think you’re awkward on camera (almost everyone says that at first!), I promise you’ll end up forgetting it’s even a photoshoot.

By the time the wedding day comes, you’ll feel completely at ease in front of the lens — which is exactly the point.

Close-up of engagement ring on hand resting in jeans pocket.

Ready to start your journey?

Pop in your details below, hit send, and I’ll be in your inbox within 12 hours. Can’t wait to hear what you’re dreaming of: whether it’s big or a small intimate wedding.

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