Pre-Wedding Shoot Guide for Melbourne Couples: What to Wear and How to Prepare

A pre-wedding shoot is a chance to slow down together before the celebrations begin. It is also the easiest way to feel natural in front of the camera before your wedding day. This pre-wedding shoot guide for Melbourne covers what to wear, how to prepare and some ideas to try.

Why do a pre-wedding shoot?

• You get to know your photographer, and they get to know you.
• You learn what makes you comfortable in front of a camera.
• You have lovely images for your invitations, welcome signs, screens and social media.
• You create memories of the two of you before the busy wedding season.

Many couples tell me the shoot is the moment they stop worrying about being photographed. By the wedding day, you already know what to expect, and the photos look more like you.

When to book it

Most couples do their shoot a few weeks or months before the wedding, but there is no strict rule. If you want to use the photos on invitations or at the venue, plan the shoot early enough to allow for editing and printing. Tell your photographer your deadline when you book.

Choose your location and mood

Start with how you want the photos to feel: soft and romantic, playful, elegant, cinematic or adventurous. Then choose a place that matches. Parks and gardens suit a soft look, the coast suits a calm one, and the city suits a bold one. You can read more in my guide to photo location types in South-East Melbourne.

What to wear

Clothes make a big difference to how you feel, and how the photos look. Choose outfits you love and feel comfortable moving in.

• Colours: choose shades that suit your skin and the location. Jewel tones look striking against greenery, and soft neutrals suit beaches and gardens.
• Coordinate, do not match: pick colours that go well together, rather than identical outfits.
• Texture and movement: flowing dresses, long gowns and dupattas look beautiful in motion.
• Fit: wear what fits well and lets you walk, twirl and sit.
• Avoid: large logos, tiny stripes and anything you need to keep adjusting.
• Two outfits: bring a second look, such as a traditional outfit and a casual or formal one.
• Shoes: choose shoes you can walk in, and carry a pair for photos if needed.

How to prepare

• Get a good sleep and drink plenty of water the day before.
• Plan hair and makeup so you feel like yourselves, only polished.
• Bring a small kit: tissues, lip balm, a brush, a lint roller, water and a snack.
• Think about a few meaningful items, like rings or family jewellery.
• Allow plenty of time to get there and be calm when you arrive.
• Check the weather forecast and have a plan B.

Ideas to try

• Walk hand in hand and talk about your favourite memory together.
• A slow dance on a quiet path.
• A picnic with food you both love.
• A clear umbrella for a rainy-day look.
• City lights and glowing archways at dusk.
• Traditional outfits in a garden or among trees.
• A vintage car or a favourite place.

Tips for feeling natural

Most people feel awkward for the first ten minutes. That is normal. Here is what helps.

• Focus on each other, not the camera.
• Move, rather than hold a pose. Walk, sway or laugh.
• Breathe out slowly before each shot.
• Trust your photographer to guide you.
• Bring music if it helps you relax.

How the shoot usually flows

1. We meet at the location and have a quick chat. This is when nerves settle.
2. We start with simple walking portraits, so you can warm up.
3. We move on to closer, more intimate shots and any ideas you have planned.
4. If you have a second outfit, we change and try a different mood.
5. We finish with some playful, candid moments.

For every kind of couple

• If you are shy: keep it simple, walk and talk, and let the camera follow.
• If you are playful: bring a game, a song or a funny story and let the laughter happen.
• If you love fashion: go for bold outfits and city backdrops.
• If you love nature: choose a quiet park, garden or bushland path.

What to do with your photos

Many couples use pre-wedding photos for save-the-dates, invitations, a welcome sign or a slideshow at the reception. Some print a few for the home. Tell your photographer your plans early, so the images can be made to suit.

Questions to ask your photographer first

• How long will the session be, and how many locations can we fit in?
• Can we bring a second outfit, props or family jewellery?
• What happens if the weather is bad on the day?
• When will we receive the photos, and in what form? Ask for a delivery window.
• Can the photos be used on our invitations and online?

Photos and film

If you would like a short film as well as photos, ask when you enquire. Movement and sound can bring your shoot to life. A story I shared, a pre-wedding shoot across Bayside and the city, included a short highlight film.

See more and plan your shoot

Browse the pre-wedding gallery and the pre-wedding photography page to see real sessions and learn how it works.

Frequently asked questions

How long does a pre-wedding shoot take?

It depends on the number of locations and outfits. Ask your photographer for an estimate when you enquire.

What if we feel awkward in front of the camera?

Almost everyone does at first. A good photographer will guide you and the shoot will soon feel natural.

Can we wear traditional outfits?

Of course. Many couples bring both traditional and modern outfits for different moods.

What if the weather is bad?

We can reschedule, move to a more sheltered spot or use the rain for a moody look. Have a backup date in mind.

Ready to talk?

If you are planning a pre-wedding shoot in Melbourne, tell me about your outfits, your ideas and your wedding date. You can enquire here, email Hello@jyproductions.com.au or message me on WhatsApp at +61 435 222 666. I am happy to answer questions with no pressure.