Everything to Know About Pre Wedding Photoshoots: Names, Ideas, and Tips

Ever noticed those dreamy, romantic photos of couples looking all loved-up before the big day—and wondered what exactly you call that kind of shoot? It’s not just a trend for celebrities. This photogenic tradition says a lot about how we want to remember love before wedding chaos hits. The answer: it’s most commonly called a “pre wedding photoshoot,” or just “pre wedding shoot.” But if you dig in, you’ll find a few other names and a whole world of creative ideas, cultural twists, and practical reasons why couples swear by these shoots.

What is a Before Wedding Photoshoot Called?

The short answer—most photographers and wedding planners use the term pre wedding photoshoot, especially across Asia, Europe, and even in the US these days. In Western countries, you might also hear "engagement shoot" or "engagement session," but there are subtle differences. Traditionally, an engagement shoot celebrates the proposal itself, usually a few weeks or months before the wedding plans start rolling. A pre wedding shoot, by contrast, often happens closer to the wedding date—anytime from a month to just days before tying the knot. It's a separate event meant to create beautiful, styled portraits that capture the couple’s vibe and chemistry, minus the pressure of the wedding day.

Around South Asia, especially India, the pre wedding shoot is a major event. Couples sometimes travel across states—or even countries—just for jaw-dropping backdrops. Some call it a “save the date” shoot, using the photos for invites, social media teasers, or big decorative posters at their wedding venues. In China, it’s a full-blown cultural phenomenon, with outfits and themes ranging from traditional attire to wild, out-of-the-box concepts like underwater shoots or high-fashion cityscapes. In Japan, it might simply be known as “mae-kon,” meaning “before wedding.”

Here’s a quick table with the most common names and their regions:

So when someone asks, “What do you call a before wedding photoshoot?”—you can pick the term that best fits your culture or wedding vibe. But “pre wedding shoot” covers 99% of situations, especially when talking to pros in the wedding industry.

Why Do Couples Do Pre Wedding Photoshoots?

Most couples don’t just want pretty pics, though that’s a huge part of it. One big reason? Zero stress. On the actual wedding day, everybody’s nervous, there are time crunches, and the unpredictability of guests and weather can hijack even the best-planned shoot. The pre wedding shoot, on the other hand, is relaxed and personalized. No tight schedules. No Aunties pulling you away for a dance. Just two people being themselves with a camera (and sometimes a drone) capturing pure vibes.

Believe it or not, research by The Knot shows over 70% of modern couples consider a pre wedding or engagement shoot essential. The photos often end up everywhere—save the date announcements, social media, wedding websites, even custom-printed gifts for family. Couples might frame these photos for their homes or create themed slideshows that play at the wedding. There’s also the fun of experimenting with looks and locations you might avoid on your actual wedding day—think hiking on a windy hill, chilling at your favorite café, or recreating your first date.

But there’s more. A pre wedding shoot is a real dress rehearsal for being comfortable in front of the camera. Wedding photographers say couples who do these sessions show more natural chemistry and less stage fright during the main event. It helps solidify trust between the couple and the photographer—so on the wedding day, instructions flow smoothly.

Lastly, some couples just want to document who they are before life changes. It’s a snapshot of their energy before the whirlwind of wedding rituals, guests, and family. Years later, these images bring back memories of a time that’s all about the two of you, minus all the bells and whistles.

How Do You Plan a Pre Wedding Photoshoot?

Don’t just toss a date on the calendar and wing it. To get photos that’ll blow up your Instagram—and make grandma smile—you’ve got to plan smart. Start by chatting honestly with your partner: Do you want dreamy and romantic, or goofy and quirky? City chic or forest adventure? Next, hunt for a photographer you vibe with. Scroll through portfolios until something jumps out. If you’re camera shy, pick someone known for friendly directing. Book early—popular dates go fast, especially in the spring and fall.

Location is everything. Pick a spot with personal significance, or somewhere you’ve both dreamed of visiting. Some couples choose multiple venues—a coffee shop for cozy shots, a lakeside park for wide panoramas, and maybe even your own home for the ultimate laid-back look. Check if you need permits; many famous parks and landmarks require advance notice for professional photography.

Clothes matter, but don’t go overboard. Two to three outfit changes work best. Think complementary, not matching. Solid colors and simple patterns keep the focus on emotion, not fabric. Some couples bring props, like a retro bicycle, musical instruments, or their pet dog wearing a bow tie. Plan around the light; golden hour—about an hour before sunset—is magic for soft, flattering photos. Bring snacks and water, especially if you’re outdoors. Keep a backup plan in case weather turns wild.

• Coordinate the time, location, and outfits in advance.
• Communicate your ideas with the photographer, send photo references you love.
• Don’t forget practical stuff: umbrellas, comfy shoes, hairbrush, and portable makeup.
• Test your outfits ahead of time for comfort and fit. Nothing’s worse than fidgeting hems and itchy collars.
• Try a hair and makeup trial on the same day—two birds, one stone.

If either of you feels awkward at first, start with candid conversation shots or seated poses. The best smiles come after the first few minutes, once you relax. And yeah, cheesy as it sounds, just be yourself. Forced poses stick out a mile in professional albums.

Popular Themes and Creative Ideas for Pre Wedding Shoots

No rule says you have to stick to classic park or studio pics. Couples today get wild. Some turn the shoot into an adventure—think paragliding over hills, wandering neon-lit city streets after dark, or shooting underwater with flowing dresses. Others lean into hobbies: cosplay as their favorite movie duo, recreate iconic pop culture moments, or stage a picnic with favorite foods and board games.

Cultural touch is big too. South Indian couples might don traditional sarees and dhotis at a historic temple. Western pairs opt for vintage convertibles driving along coastal highways. In places like Bali, Thailand, or Santorini, destination pre wedding shoots are booming, with couples flying to postcard locations months before their actual nuptials.

Here are some fresh ideas couples have tried recently:

• Photos at the bookstore or library where you first met
• Matching sneakers in a grungy alley for street style
• Splashing in a lake at sunrise, wrapped in blankets
• Retro diner shoot eating fries and milkshakes
• Gardens and botanical parks with wildflowers and soft pastels
• Sporty themes: shooting hoops, hiking, or cycling together
• Art galleries, theaters, or museums if you're feeling artsy
• Pets—always a crowd-pleaser if you call your dog part of the family

If you want to go ultra-creative, some photographers offer “concept shoots” with stylists handling everything from props and set designs to makeup and lighting. There’s even a trend of night-time pre wedding shoots, using fairy lights, sparklers, and moody shadows for dramatic effects you don’t usually see in wedding photos.

Tips from the Pros: Making the Most of Your Pre Wedding Photoshoot

Professional wedding photographers share a few secrets most couples don’t know. First off, always have a Plan B for weather and light. Even if your dream is a sun-drenched field, you might end up under umbrellas or racing the rain. Second, build trust with your photographer—jump on a video call before the shoot, and share a playlist of your favorite moods or songs to play during the session. Music relaxes people way more than awkward silence.

Embrace imperfections. Some of the most loved photos come from genuine laughs, wind-tousled hair, or muddy shoes after a sudden downpour. Don’t waste energy keeping everything Insta-perfect. Candid emotion is timeless. When prepping for the shoot, get a good night’s sleep and eat something beforehand. Skipping meals for a “slimmer look” often just saps your energy and mood.

• Pockets are your friend. Jackets, dresses, or pants with pockets give you somewhere to rest your hands and can help with awkwardness.
• Leave the phone in the car! Notifications are the enemy of natural smiles.
• If you’re not a fan of posing, start moving—walk, spin, dance, or play a game. Action makes for natural, lively shots.
• Don’t hesitate to bring up insecurities with your photographer. They’ve heard it all and can suggest angles, poses, or even edits to help boost your confidence.
• Hydrate, especially in summer or sunny climates. Dehydrated skin and tired eyes show up in close-ups.

Finally, remember that this is about the two of you—the story you want to tell before the wedding. Throw traditions out the window if they don’t fit. Don’t stress about trends or what anyone else thinks. Your pre wedding shoot, whatever you call it, should feel authentically you. And who knows? You might just end up with a set of photos you love even more than the wedding album itself.

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