Pre Wedding Shoots in the Peak District & Sheffield

We often get our couples opting for a pre wedding shoot, whether to get a feel for being in front of the camera or get some nice photos to use as a part of your wedding day. Either way, our job is for you to feel comfortable and at ease. So this blog is here to help guide couples to get the most out of their shoot. We offer all pre wedding shoots in the Peak District or Sheffield area (but if you want to do your shoot elsewhere, we can chat about your requirements).

Locations

I have a list of lovely locations in the Peak District & Sheffield that have been tried and tested. But I’m always up for a new spot if you have somewhere in mind. Some of my particular favourites are Padley Gorge, Longshaw Estate, Stanage Edge or Burbage Brook, Ladybower Reservoir and also Blacka Moor & Shilto Woods (which both look naff on google) but we like walking in the peaks so know the good spots which are also a little more quieter at weekends compared to somewhere like Longshaw Estate. Bear in mind some of these places are vastly different dependant on the time of year. I also venture into Sheffield, particularly Kelham Island for a real urban vibe.

Weather

I don’t offer pre wedding shoots in January & February anymore, because we almost always get snowed in and it’s incredibly snowy (not in a good accessible way) in the peaks. However, I do pre wedding shoots right through from March to December. Summer months vary due to busier wedding seasons so flexibility is much appreciated. I currently can do mid week pre shoots on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday. Let me know when you’d like your shoot & I will do my best to book it for then.

Definitely have a think about the type of weather you’d like for your pre shoot, whether you want it to match your wedding or be the total opposite. I will reschedule with you if it is absolutely atrocious weather & pouring it down. Definitely not what we’re after!

What to Wear

Please wear sensible shoes if you choose a peaks pre wedding shoot (whether it’s wellies, walking boots or a solid pair of trainers). I want you to feel comfortable in what you wear but I also want you to be able to walk and move about without staring at the ground. So footwear is key!

Also, you don’t need to bring hand bags with you. Leave anything like that in the car, so you have your hands free to hold each other hug and hold hands. It’s important to be able to be affectionate with each other on your shoot and removing anything that might get in the way of that.

Wear what makes you feel confident and comfortable. You will have photos on your wedding day of your fanciest attire. So this is about capturing the ‘everyday’ you and being in the moment together. It’s a nice little juxtaposition to your wedding gallery. Wrap up warm for winter shoots, especially as it can be quite windy in the peaks in autumn/winter.

When to have your pre wedding shoot

This is totally up to you. Some couples want an autumn vibe and have their shoot in October(ish) give or take the leaves turning. If you want a summer shoot then June through to August is your ideal. I’m happy to chat with you about time of year and when is best. Ideally you want to get your shoot booked in at least a month prior your wedding.

I normally do pre wedding shoots at 10am in the morning where the sun isn’t too high. Or we can do them mid/late afternoon depending on the time of year. Midday is not the ideal time because the sun is at its highest and quite harsh (sometimes even if it’s a bit overcast).

We can always chat more about when you want it and if you’re not sure what time of year to have it. Just drop me an email!

What to expect from me (Alexandra)

I’m really relaxed on your shoot. Don’t expect me to pick up the camera straight away and start shooting. We will have a little chat for a bit, catch up and give you a bit of time to get into it. My job is to capture the both of you as a couple like no one is watching (except I am haha). So we will relax into it before snapping away.

Shoots normally last an hour to an hour & a half dependant on location. We will do some walking shots and more posed shots, which is really you two having a cuddle whilst I tell you what to do with your hands. It’s not cringy poses so don’t worry. It’s guiding you together, having a little moment together. I will quickly work out what works for the both of you and what doesn’t.

You’re more than welcome to bring your dog (if you have one) to your shoot but it will result in less romantic shots & more walking shots so that’s something to bear in mind. But I’m very comfortable around dogs!

Ultimately, a pre wedding shoot is great to get some fun relaxed personal photos of the both of you. You can use them for invites, a signing book at your wedding or anything else. I’m really keen to make you both feel at ease and in the moment so you have the best time!