Prenup photo shoots have really come a long way. From simple studio sessions, prenups have evolved into semi-grand productions that rival, and sometimes even surpass, some ad or magazine shoots. Location shoots are all the rage now with couples having their prenups at vacation spots here and out of the country. Adventurous couples collaborate with their photographers and constantly push the envelope when it comes to exciting concepts for their prenup. The resulting shoot may range from quirky to romantic, but they are always personal.
What are prenuptial photos?
Prenuptial photos are professionally shot photographs of the soon-to-wed couple, taken before their wedding day. They’re unusually more informal than the traditional wedding pictures taken on the church steps or before the altar, and can center on themes or places you and your fiancé have in mind. While they’re not absolutely necessary, many couples opt to get them as additional keepsakes for the wedding or as mementoes to showcase during the reception or include with the giveaways.
When should we schedule our prenuptial photo shoot?
The prenuptial photo shoot should take place, ideally, 1-3 months before the wedding or even earlier.
What would be the best time to have the shoot?
Schedule your start either early in the morning (7a.m. on location) or late afternoon (3p.m. onwards till dusk) to maximize the best natural lighting, avoid the midday heat, and capture a romantic atmosphere (i.e. sunset view).
Do we need a theme for the shoot? If so, how do we choose one?
While it’s not always required, having a theme for your photo shoot is highly encouraged since this helps focus your shots and makes planning easier. Couples can also choose to have more than one theme --- though keep in mind that the more themes you have, the more props, locations --- and ultimately, headaches---you’ll probably have to deal with.
Themes are best chosen when they reflect both your personalities. For example, if you’re both into history, then try an old-world theme and have your photographer shoot in black-and-white or sepia tones. Or simply have your prenuptial photos match the theme of your wedding.
Other suggestions include:
· Focusing your theme on a favorite place. (i.e. beach, garden, park, etc.)
· Featuring a common activity (i.e. horseback riding, food trip, sports, etc.)
· Showcasing the first time you met (i.e. college, a foreign city, prom), and
· Recreating an experience you both treasure (i.e. road trip, concert, school fair).
What do we do on the day of our photo shoot?
Arrive early at your location with all the requisite props and clothing. Make sure you’ve gotten a good night’s sleep the day before so both of you are in good spirits.
How do we prepare for our photo shoot?
We’ve got suggestions to help you prepare for your photo shoot.
1. Book your photographer.
2. Choose a theme.
3. Scout for location---or locations, as the case may be.
4. Arrange for hair and make-up.
5. Plan your outfits.
6. Practice your poses.
7. Bring the following items:
- Photo pegs of specific looks you want to capture
- Props (i.e. balloons, flowers, toys, umbrella, etc.)
- Extra change of clothing
- Powder, makeup kit
- Dental floss
- Water and snacks
- For outdoor shoots
- Sunscreen lotion
- Insect repellant
- Shades
Shoot locations are chosen for a variety of reasons --- nostalgia, privacy, convenience, and atmosphere. Below are some of our top picks for locations in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao
Quezon City:
University of the Philippines Diliman, Ateneo de Manila University, SEAMEO Innotech on Commonwealth Ave., La Mesa Dam Eco-Park, Ninoy Aquino Parks & Wildlife, Eastwood Mall, Ayala Techno Hub
Manila:
Intramuros (Father Blanco’s Garden, Fort Santiago, etc.) Rizal Park, Sofitel, Manila Hotel, University of Santo Tomas, Manila Orchidarium, and Butterfly Pavilion, Paco Park, Ocean Park
Pampanga:
Clark Field, Claude Tayag’s Bale Dutung (House of Wood), The Lakeshore, Mahogany Farm, Grand Palazzo Royale, Abe’s Farm
Ilocos Sur and Norte:
Vigan, Paoay Church, Cape Bojeador Lighthouse in Burgos, Bangui windmills, sand dunes of La Paz, Pagudpud, Fort Ilocandia Resort and Casino, bell towers, Sitio Remedios in Currimao
Baguio:
Around Camp John Hay, Manor Hotel, Burnham Park, Bell Church, Session Road, Tam-awan Village
Tagaytay:
Nurture Spa, Gourmet’s Café, Ville Sommet, Antnonio’s Tagaytay Highlands, Cliffhouse, Caleruega, Canyon Woods
Visayas:
Shangri-la Mactan, Malapascua, Sumilon island, Carcar, Badian island, Camotes island, Man-made forest in Bohol, Café Lawis in Dauis Bohol, Panglao island
Mindanao:
Eden Resort in Davao, Enigmata Treehouse in Camiguin, Dahilayan Gardens in Bukidnon
