Pre wedding photography has been gaining popularity over the past few years. There are many reasons couples decide to take pre-wedding photos, we have an article about it here, and today we're here to help demystify the planning process. Keep reading to find out how to plan your photo shoot and how long you can expect it to take. 

Taking a look at our couple stories, on average, couples looking to do a photo shoot in Japan start planning their photo shoot about 2 months ahead of time. While planning your pre wedding photo shoot the main things to consider are the photographer, the location, the timing and the outfits. 

The Photographer

A couple in Sydney with their photographer — Photo by Sydney Creative Photography

Probably the most important decision of the photo shoot — who will take your photos? Are they a local photographer or do they need to travel to your photo shoot location? Decisions decisions! Choosing a photographer will most likely be the most time-consuming process of planning your photo shoot. Not only do you have to worry about where your photographer is located, but you also need to consider their booking schedule. For especially popular photographers, they are booked months to years in advance so you need to put this into consideration while planning your photo shoot. You also need to consider things like budget and photography style, we have an article here about how to choose a pre wedding photographer. 

The Location

Dramatic sunset photo taken in Ehime — Photo by photoimagic

Where will your photo shoot be? Will it be a destination pre wedding photo shoot? Will it be a local photo shoot? Many couples usually have a location already planned but something you need to consider is your travel budget when looking through locations. Especially for those with multiple photo shoot locations, you should consider the budget for each location and the travel costs between each location. 

The Timing

Coming to Japan for your pre wedding photo shoot? We recommend spring time! — Photo by SORAIRO

Each season brings something different all over the world so if you are planning to take destination pre wedding photos this is something to take into consideration. Make sure to research average temperatures, rain, and humidity, or ask your photographer about their experience shooting at your selected time of year. Although summer in a country like Australia usually brings a dry heat, you may find yourself sweltering in the sticky humidity of countries such as Japan or Singapore - not ideal for wearing a big heavy dress! Be wary also of public holidays and tourist season as it may push up the costs of your flights, accommodation, and possibly your photographer. 

The Outfits

Pre wedding photography means wedding dress and all ;)— Photo by L'équipe de Yoyo

You may be more familiar with engagement photography where couples dress in their favorite casual ensembles, but pre wedding photography is all about the wedding outfits! Some couples bring their own wedding attire whereas others choose to rent. Rental kimono is also a very popular option for couples visiting Japan and usually comes with hair, makeup, and an assistant to help you move about. Make sure to let your photographer know what you are planning on wearing, particularly in the case of a large wedding dress, so they can make sure they have the right equipment for your photo shoot.

Sample Schedules by Real Couples

A wintry photo shoot in Tokyo — Photo by Ayako

Mayu and her partner spent two months planning their photo shoot in the Tokyo area. Read their story here.

Taken at her very own shop! — Photo by trickster photography

Flower shop owner Sayuri and her husband admitted planning their photo shoot only 3 weeks in advance! It was exhausting, but they made it work. Read their story here.

In the trendy Marunouchi area of Tokyo — Photo by trickster photography

Newlyweds Atsuko and Yuya explain their 2-month plan in great detail. Read their story here.

These schedules are for pre-wedding photo shoots in Japan and may seem quite last-minute compared the schedules of couples in other countries. It's always better to be safe than sorry and we recommend booking as early as possible, especially if you have a particular photographer, salon, florist etc that you wish to use. However, even if your trip is just weeks away, don't think that you can't make it work! Send us an inquiry and we'll do our best to make your dream photo shoot a reality. 

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