In case you missed it, I have written about “What Every Guy Should Know about Engagement Shoots”. To date, it’s still one of my popular personal blog posts.
So today, I’m making a follow-up post about pre-wedding preparations. Steph and I were so lucky to have another engagement shoot. This time here in London, The UK. It was winter time when I arrived and I must admit – planning a winter prenup or pre-wedding is a different topic.
When Steph told me to expect for another engagement shoot, I silently told myself that this would be easy peasy as we ’ve survived our first one. I was wrong – having a winter engagement shoot is a totally unique experience.
I know a lot of newly engaged couples would want a winter engagement. Who wouldn’t like the winter wonderland feeling and if you have an extra budget for going abroad, it’s going to be a worthwhile experience. After having to experience it, here are some winter photo shoot ideas for couples:
Photographer. You may bring your preferred photographer or get one locally. In our case, Jasper Soriano Photography in Crawley. He is a photographer in Crawley. Jasper, together with Eve on his team, took us to an experience we can’t forget. There are more advantages of getting a photographer within the location of your shoot. They’re more seasoned to do pre-wedding shoots during the winter period. We are so lucky to have both of them during the shoot. They’re extremely helpful and they really know their craft.
Weather and the right timing. Check the weather. I have discovered that if it’s winter; it doesn’t snow all the time. It could be just strong winds or cold air. Check your weather app for the forecast. Getting a photographer within the desired shoot country will also be handy as they can adjust the plans, locations and shoot themes. You will also have to take advantage of the sunlight as the sun will rise late and will set early. It’s like you will only see light from 8AM – 4PM. The golden hour starts at roughly 2PM.
Pick at least 3-6 locations. We had different locations in mind. We even thought of going to a castle but it was closed for a period of time so Jasper proposed that we go to London. We were up for it and we decided to have the touristy type of shoot. Jasper and his team took photos of us at the London Tube, London Eye, the iconic London red telephone booth, River Thames, Redhill Train Station, The Shard and the Tower Bridge (commonly called the London Bridge). All these destinations are within Central London so it is easier to hop on a tube to the next destination.
Activities. Steph and I wanted the shoot to be less stressful. We had our fair share during our first one so we opted to have a more relaxed touristy shoot. We wanted to be ourselves touring the City of London and not transform into some fantasy themed shoots. We wanna show the natural and candid side rather than the scripted one. We wanted ourselves to be in the picture, of course, and the beauty of London. Our activities were guided yet free-flowing. Enjoy and don’t stress yourselves during your pre-wedding shoots. If both of you have different hobbies, probably this is the best time to show it to the world.
Hair and Makeup. When you’re abroad, almost everything is DIY (Do-It-Yourself). It’s expensive to get these services if you compare it to the rates in the Philippines. For this shoot, Steph opted to do her hair and makeup and since it’s really windy, Steph could not really do more to her hair. On the other hand, I had the Good Times Pomade holding my hair throughout the shoot. I had no makeup on compared to the first shoot so you’d really see the #NoFilter Vic.
Clothing and Props. Pinterest makes a good resource site when searching for winter pre-wedding photos. You will have tons of inspiration but in the end, you’ll really have to consider the weather and temperature. A mix and match strategy will likely work. Don’t be afraid to bundle up. It was seriously cold and a gown for women may not be suitable. We wore clothes that have a classic and timeless look. Though Steph and I prepared 3-4 pairs of clothes each, we were only able to utilize 2 pairs each. It’s hard to change outfits in the middle of winter and full packed toilet around London. For the props, we were able to utilize our luggage, beanies and more. I would suggest sticking to two outfits during a winter engagement shoot. Make use of the season. Have fun.
And here is a ‘pinnable’ image for you to pin to your wedding planning Pinterest board – feel free to share it on Facebook or Twitter with your engaged friends too!
All photos are courtesy of Jasper Ian Soriano Photography in Crawley.
Do you have more tips? Share it in the comments section below.