Everything You Need To Know About A Pre-Wedding Photoshoot In Melbourne

Planning a pre-wedding photoshoot in Melbourne?

Pre-wedding shoots in Australia are on the rise and it’s easy to see why – I mean, what’s not to love? Australia has some of the most incredible scenery on the planet. From rugged coastlines and dense rainforests to cities full of thriving arts scenes, architectural beauty, and amazing food. Planning a pre-wedding photoshoot in Melbourne is a great idea!

There’s also been a growing trend of couples coming from Asian countries (such as Singapore, Hong Kong, and Malaysia) to capture the beautiful scenery around the city for their pre-wedding shoots. If you’re coming from overseas, I’ve included some info below on planning your pre-wedding shoot trip to Melbourne. And if you’re already a Melbourne native, I’ve got you covered too!

Here’s all you need to know about creating the perfect pre-wedding photos in Melbourne.

Why you should have a pre-wedding photoshoot…

During a pre-wedding shoot, you have the freedom to explore & discover breathtaking locations for your portraits. Unlike your wedding day, which follows a tight schedule and confines you to the surrounding area, a pre-wedding shoot allows you to envision any location you desire. It offers a chance to slow down and truly enjoy the experience. On a wedding day I typically allow 45 minutes for portraits, but with a pre-wedding shoot we can dedicate up to two hours to getting the perfect images.

There are also tons of creative ways you can use pre-wedding photos. Such as announcements, invitations, and save-the-dates. Even a guestbook for your friends and family to sign at the reception or in a slideshow presentation during your wedding. A lot of couples will also use these pre-wedding photos in their wedding albums or to frame and hang in their homes. With this type of shoot, you can kick off your pre-wedding celebrations with awesome snaps of you and your spouse-to-be.

Another huge reason to do this type of photoshoot is to get rid of any camera anxiety you might have before your big day. It gives you a chance to be comfortable in front of the camera. Which means your wedding photos are more likely to turn out the way you picture them. Your photographer will also be able to get a better feel for what you’re looking for and how you photograph before the actual wedding.

Additionally, brides can give their hair and makeup a trial run to see if they like how it looks before the big day. Some photographers (like myself) offer a makeup artist as part of the photoshoot package to help achieve the right look.

Why Melbourne is the perfect place…

Pre-wedding photoshoots are all about creating a romantic, yet natural setting for your photos, Melbourne truly an ideal location. Comprising of varied and pristine scenery with a rugged coastline and verdant ancient forests. But if nature isn’t your thing, the city itself offers lots of unique, historic architecture that will make an ideal backdrop to your love story.

Where you should stay…

If you’re from out of town, there are loads of amazing hotels and Airbnbs to take advantage of in the Melbourne area. A personal fave of mine is Treasury on Collins (ToC Hotel). This beautiful landmark building was built in the 19th century and is located right in the heart of the Melbourne. The suites are designed like little apartments with a kitchenette and living/dining area. It’s also close to public transport options, so it’s easy to get around. Plus there are plenty of nearby boutique shops and restaurants to keep you busy.

If you are planning the epic coastline around Melbourne, or even down the Great Ocean Road, I’d suggest looking for a cute Airbnb close by. This will save you travel time and make the whole experience a lot more enjoyable. I love when my couples reach out and I can help them find the perfect place. So be sure to ask your photographer for suggestions on the best-hidden gems to stay.

What your concept should be…

I recommend picking out the concept or theme for your photoshoot as far in advance as you can. There are a variety of ways you can go with this. Shooting at the place you met, where the proposal took place, your favourite park, etc. Or you can stick to the more traditional settings of beaches, forests, botanical gardens etc. You can go as glamorous (full makeup and gown) or as laid-back (jeans and a tee) as you want.

Some couples choose to display their cultural roots with traditional clothing. Basically, whatever fits you and your future spouse’s vibe the best. Just remember to work with your photographer ahead of time so that they can help you accomplish your concept successfully.

What you should wear…

Deciding what to wear for your pre-wedding photoshoot in Melbourne is super important. People want different vibes for their shoot, so it just depends on what you’re going for. Whether that’s a formal look or more of a dressed down, casual tone. Just plan out what you want to do before the shoot so you have ideas to share with your photographer.

I always appreciate it when my clients chat with me about what they’re planning to wear (especially if they want to do multiple looks during the shoot). We can also decide together on what looks will work best for your desired location/s. For example, if you want to head to the coastline, the windy weather will work best for a hair-down, flowy-dress look. I like to suggest contrasting colours. If you’re leaning towards a forest shoot I’d suggest wearing lighter colours that will seperate you from the background. That way you’ll pop out for some truly stunning pics.

After the photoshoot…

If the same photographer is shooting your wedding, I’d suggest sharing your favourite photos from the pre-wedding shoot with them. If I know which photos my client love most and why, I can aim to include more of those options during the actual wedding day celebration. Your pre-wedding photos can act as a guide to help me create the best photos possible that are tailored to your tastes.

The best part about pre-wedding photos is that they can serve as a way for couples to remember one of the most special times in their relationship. If you decide to do a pre-wedding photoshoot, you’ll be able to capture this magical stage of your relationship with photos you’ll treasure forever.