Engagement & Pre-Wedding Photoshoots in Powys
Choosing the perfect location for a pre-wedding photoshoot is all about finding place that's quiet but close to either a decent pub or a coffee shop. Yep, priorities! Over the years, I've discovered a few favourite spots that never fail to be the perfect spot to hang out with every single cool couple that books me. From my fave beach ever to gorgeous woodland walks, each location offers something special. Let me take you through some of my top picks for pre-wedding photoshoot locations and share why these spots are perfect for capturing the love between you and your partner.
The Beach
There’s something undeniably magical about a beach photoshoot. The vast expanse of the ocean, the soft golden sand beneath your feet, and the gentle breeze in the air create a wonderfully romantic atmosphere. I love shooting at the beach during the weekdays when it’s quieter and we have the whole place to ourselves. This allows us to capture the natural, intimate moments without the distraction of a crowd. The beach offers a versatile setting—whether you’re looking for a playful, barefoot-in-the-sand vibe or cuddling up in the sanddunes for a little moment.
The Woods
You won't have a big suprise if you go down to the woods. For couples who love nature and are looking for something a bit more secluded, a woodland setting is ideal. The towering trees, filtered sunlight, and lush greenery create a serene and mystical backdrop. I often suggest forest shoots during the week for the same reason as the beach—it’s much quieter, which allows us to explore more and take our time finding the perfect spots. Between October and April, the forest takes on a different character with the changing seasons, offering a variety of moods from the golden hues of autumn to the crisp, clear light of early spring. This variety ensures that every photoshoot feels unique and tailored to the couple’s story.
Hilltop views
There’s nothing like the view from the top of a hill to make you feel on top of the world. For couples who enjoy a bit of adventure, a hilltop photoshoot offers breathtaking panoramic views and a sense of freedom. Capturing a couple standing hand-in-hand with a sweeping landscape behind them is just pure art. Weekday shoots at hilltop locations are perfect because they allow us to take advantage of the quiet and the expansive, uninterrupted views. The cooler months also mean fewer tourists and a more intimate setting for those truly epic shots.
Local Deer Park
A local deer park provides a unique and charming setting for a pre-wedding photoshoot. The presence of gentle, graceful deer adds a whimsical and almost fairytale-like element to the photos. Weekday visits are crucial here, as the park tends to be quieter, giving us a better chance to capture moments with these beautiful creatures in the background. The softer light in the cooler months of October to April complements the earthy tones of the park, making for some truly enchanting images. Thing is with the deer park it's got a bit of everything, views, lake and woodland. Plus if you're not local to the area, it's dead easy to find, has a car park and a coffee shop which is a bonus for a brew after to chat all things weddings.
By the Lake
There’s a certain tranquility that comes with being near a lake. The still water reflects the sky and surrounding landscape, creating a mirror effect that can make for stunning photographs. A lake setting always brings a sense of calm and romance BUT, also it brings fun, because there are places you can hire a boat and make it an adventure aswell! Lakes ensure a peaceful atmosphere, allowing the couple to feel at ease and truly present in the moment.
By the Canal
A canal shoot brings a touch of urban charm to the pre-wedding photoshoot experience. With the rustic brickwork of canal paths and quaint bridges this setting offers a mix of city life and serene waterside views. The off-season months between October and April are perfect for capturing the unique character of the canals, from the moody mist of a cool morning to the vibrant colors of boats and buildings. Theres a few little spots that are my faves along the montgomery canal that is just perfect for shoots but the other great thing is about canals, is they often have pubs just off them for handy parking and a pint after!
Let's hang out in town
Being in town is cool too, you don't have to be 'one with nature' on your prewedding shoot! I am always down for heading into town and embracing the gorgeous shropshire and powys towns we have locally. Often means we get to find cool graffiti and brick walls that are always incredible to photograph in front of. AND bonus, you can ALWAYS find somewhere to head for a drink after!
The Best Part: Planning Your Big Day
After each photoshoot, I love to take some time to relax with the couple and focus on the wedding day over a drink—whether it’s a warm cup of coffee, a refreshing iced tea, or something a little stronger! This post-photoshoot unwind session is a wonderful opportunity to chat about all things related to your wedding day. We discuss your vision, dreams, and ideas for the big day, and I help you start outlining a baseline itinerary. It’s not just about capturing beautiful photos; it’s about building a relationship and understanding what makes your love story unique, so we can make your wedding day everything you’ve ever imagined. PLUS, I capture a lot of weddings, I do this weekly, so why not pick my brains and get my help with the running of things. I have a vast knowledge of what works and what doesn't on a wedding day. So pick my brains!
Why I Choose Weekdays and Off-Season
Shooting on weekdays and during the off-season (October to April) offers so many benefits. Not only does it provide quieter, more intimate settings away from the hustle and bustle, but it also allows us to take advantage of the unique light and scenery that the cooler months offer. Each season brings its own charm, from the rich colors of fall to the fresh beginnings of spring, ensuring that your pre-wedding photos are one-of-a-kind.
I hope this gives you a sense of what to expect from a pre-wedding photoshoot and inspires you to choose a location that reflects your style and love story. Remember, the best photoshoots are those that are relaxed, fun, and truly capture
