You and your partner have just taken the plunge and gotten engaged – so let’s celebrate! But what kind of photos should you take? Sure, standard cheesy couple pics and typical locations are out there, but it’s still possible to capture something special and unique. Don’t worry – you don’t have to stick to the same old poses and places.
There are so many creative pre wedding photoshoot ideas that you can do to make your photos unique, but also reflect your personalities as a couple. So as a wedding photographer in Toronto, I’ve rounded up 12 of my favourite creative ideas that are sure to inspire some themes for your own shoot in and around the city.
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Botanical Gardens and Lavender Fields
Floral lovers, do I have the perfect pre wedding photoshoot idea for you! How about taking a stroll through a botanical garden or wandering through a dreamy lavender field?
Botanical gardens are like a vibrant and colorful candy store, but for flowers. There’s thousands of beautiful bloomed florals and greenery all around the grounds. Plus, you’ll have unique structures like greenhouses, gazebos, and water fountains to take advantage of for some seriously romantic shots.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for something more whimsical and dreamy, lavender fields are where it’s at. The soft purple hues make for a pastel like backdrop that’ll leave you feeling like you’re in a fairy tale.
Just make sure to note that both botanical gardens and lavender fields have specific bloom seasons. So you’ll want to make sure you schedule your pre-wedding shoots during the peak season to get the most out of your location. You can also check out this couple’s full botanical garden shoot over here!
Rooftops
Rooftop engagement shoots are a great idea and offer a perspective that you can’t get anywhere else. From high up, you get to capture the city skyline as a backdrop and it’s one of the best places to watch sunsets. The best part of rooftop engagement sessions? The privacy! It’s like your own secret hideaway, high above the hustle and bustle of the busy streets. Couples love it because they can let their guard down and be themselves without feeling like they’re being watched in public. Check out more from this couple’s shoot here!
Road Trips
For all you wild and free-spirited couples out there, this one’s for you! If you’re up for an adventure, then this is my top pick for a creative pre wedding photoshoot idea. Picture yourself cruising down a countryside road, making pit stops at fresh fruit stands and farms, and soaking up the breathtaking scenery around you. It’s these spontaneous and impulsive getaways that make for magical moments.
The roads behind Dundas Peak in Hamilton are a hidden gem that’s perfect for a day trip. With sprawling fields, tall grass, and mountain-like backdrops, it’s the ideal spot for a perfect sunset drive. Just make sure to stop by Sydenham Lookout for a panoramic view of the city
If you’re a fan of Autumn fall colours, then Forks of the Credit Provincial Park in Caledon is a must-visit. Caledon is home to some beautiful countryside roads and a plethora of hiking trails. Although it does get busy here since a lot of people from the GTA and Toronto tend to visit as well during fall, just make sure to plan accordingly.
Local Venues
When it comes to good locations for a pre wedding photoshoot, you don’t have to look too far for a unique and special place. Sometimes, the most memorable spots are right in your own backyard.
Think about the cozy little spots in your hometown that you both love. That quirky café where you first met, the cozy bookstore where you snuck your first kiss or the dive bar where you stumbled out of hand in hand. It’s not only a great way to save some cash but it’s also a surefire way to make your pre wedding shoot personal and meaningful.
Beaches
Hit the beach for that warm golden glow! Sand, sun, and water – what more could you want in that perfect shot?
To make your beach pre wedding photoshoot as epic as possible, you need to choose the right time of day. And when it comes to lighting, sunrise and sunset are the MVPs. These magical hours of the day provide the softest light during the day with warm orange tones and beautiful pink hues.
Most beaches in Toronto are east-facing, which means the only time you’ll see the sun dipping into the water is during sunrise. So if you want to capture that golden hour magic, you’ll need to set those alarm clocks extra early. Check out the couple’s full beach shoot here!
Sports
Sports fans get ready to bring your A-game and bring the fun to the field! Whether you’re a basketball champ, a tennis pro, or a soccer superstar, incorporating your love of sports into your pre wedding photoshoot is a great way to showcase your playful and competitive sides. Don’t be afraid to get a little sweaty and show off your skills.
Dogs, Llamas, and Horses!
This is a three in one tip for all you animal lovers out there. If you’re on the hunt for a fun and creative pre wedding photoshoot idea, consider incorporating any one of these into the mix.
If you’re a dog person like myself, you know that they’re more than just pets, they’re family. They’re always there to offer kisses and will forever be your number one fan. So, maybe you want them to be a part of your pre wedding photoshoot. That’s why I always encourage couples to bring them! Plus, having your loyal companion by your side can make the whole experience a whole lot more fun!
llama farms are the latest craze for couples who want to inject some playful whimsical fun into their photos. If you’re someone who gets a little camera-shy, llamas are the perfect wingmen. They’re gentle, friendly, and just plain adorable, which makes them great at easing your nerves and helping you feel more comfortable in front of the lens.
Horses have a charm to them that’s special like nothing else. Whether you’re standing next to them or holding their reins while looking into each other eyes. There’s something intimate and graceful about incorporating these animals into your pre wedding shoot– sort of like a scene straight out of a movie.
Winter & Fall
Winter is hands down the best season for creative pre wedding photoshoot ideas. With snow-covered landscapes and twinkling holiday lights, it’s the season where you can bundle up and have some fun in the chilly weather while capturing some amazing photos.
These winter wonderland themes can take place in so many locations like on a frozen lake or in a cozy cabin (this place was only 55 minutes north of downtown Toronto!). Check out more photos and where we went for this cute cabin shoot here!
And we all know that winter activities and living in Toronto Ontario is synonymous with each other. So, lace up your skates and hit Nathan Phillips Square, Harbourfront Centre or Lake Ontario for a picturesque ice skating session.
For the adrenaline junkies, grab your sled and head on over to Riverdale Park East for the best tobogganing and sledding in the city. And once you’re all done, warm up with some hot chocolate at Rooster Coffee House across the road.
Camping
One of the great things about a camping themed pre wedding photoshoot is that it offers a chance to unplug and relax. Plus, you can incorporate all your favorite outdoor activities into the shoot like hiking, picnicking, and of course, roasting marshmallows over a campfire.
When it comes to choosing a location, go for somewhere that has special meaning to you and your partner. Maybe it’s where you had your first camping trip, a spot where you shared a tent, or a campsite where you had the best s’mores together. Either way, it’s sure to make your photoshoot extra meaningful. Check out more of their cute session here!
Where You First Met
Take a trip down memory lane and revisit the spot where you first met for your pre-wedding photoshoot. Was it at a coffee shop, where the barista accidentally spilled coffee all over you and you locked eyes over a pile of napkins? Or was it at a park, where you were both walking your dogs and they couldn’t resist playing with each other? Whatever it may be, revisiting the spot where it all began is the perfect way to capture the nostalgia and magic of your love story.
At Home
What’s better than snuggling in bed with the one you love? Ditch the fancy outfits and stiff poses and opt for a cozy and comfortable candid photoshoot.
Whether it’s cooking together in the kitchen, baking cookies, or snuggling on the couch, capturing these everyday moments will make for some truly authentic photos.
Plus, you don’t even have to worry about leaving the house or putting on pants – now that’s a win-win.
Boat Rides
If you’re thinking about a creative pre-wedding photoshoot by the water, how about setting sail on a boat ride?
From sailing to motorboating to even paddle boating, there are endless possibilities to capture your relationship on the water.
To add some variety to your pre-wedding pictures, consider bringing along some props or accessories. A bouquet of flowers, a parasol, or even a captain’s hat can add a fun and playful element.
Conclusion
So there you have it! Twelve creative pre wedding photoshoot ideas to help with planning your next engagement session. Whether you want to get up close and personal with some furry friends or stay cozy at home, there are so many unique and fun ways to capture this special time in your lives.
And who says you have to travel far to have a magical photoshoot? Local venues, rooftops, and even your own home can be the perfect backdrop for your love story. Remember, the key is to have fun, be yourselves, and capture those special moments that make your love story one of a kind.
So go ahead, get creative, and let your personalities shine through in your pre wedding photography photos. Happy shooting!