Your Couples Shoot – What to Expect (and how not to overthink it)
So… you’ve got a couples shoot coming up – woohoo!
First things first: this is not a test. You cannot fail this.
You don’t need to know how to pose.
You don’t need to be “good in front of the camera”.
You just need to turn up and be yourselves – I’ll handle the rest.
TL;DR (for the skimmers)
- Eat before you come (hangry is not the vibe)
- Wear something that feels like you
- Don’t stress about the weather
- You don’t need to know what you’re doing – I’ll guide you
- It’s basically a wander + a laugh + me third-wheeling with a camera
So… what actually is a couples shoot?
It’s not stiff. It’s not awkward. It’s not you standing there while I shout “SMILE”.
It’s:
- a wander
- a chat
- a few daft prompts
- a lot of laughing
- and you two just… being you
Why do a couples shoot before your wedding?
If you’ve booked this before your wedding – it’s honestly the best wee warm-up you can give yourselves.
Most couples go into their wedding thinking “We’re going to be awkward”, “We don’t photograph well”, “This might be a bit cringe”
…and then leave the couples shoot like “Oh… wait… we’re actually pretty good at this??”
You’ll get to see what you look like in photos (spoiler: great), get comfy being in front of the camera, and realise that this whole thing is way more chill than you expected.
It also means on your wedding day, you’re not doing this for the first time – you already know the drill, you trust me, and you can just get on with enjoying your day.
Big win.
What do we actually do with the photos?
Aside from staring at them and going “awww look at us” on repeat…
You can use them for: save the dates, invites, a photo guest book (which is always SUCH a good idea – see below) or just finally having photos of the two of you that you actually like.
Because let’s be honest, most couples have about 3 photos together and one of them is a blurry selfie in a pub.
We can do better than that.
The actual plan (spoiler: there isn’t really one)
We’ll meet at your chosen location and go for a wander. If something looks good – we stop. If it doesn’t – we keep walking.
I’ll guide you when needed, but most of the time you’ll just be chatting, walking, messing about and forgetting I’m even there.
That’s when the magic happens.
Location
You can absolutely pick somewhere that means something to you: where you met // where you got engaged // your favourite walk or date spot.
But also? No pressure if nothing springs to mind.
Some of the best shoots happen in places you’ve never been before – it’s more about the vibe than the backstory.
Urban, nature, mountains, sea… whatever feels most you, we’ll make it work.
And if you’re like “I have no idea” – perfect. I’ve got loads of suggestions.
Clothing
If you fancy mixing things up, feel free to bring a second outfit – one casual, one a bit dressier, totally up to you.
Tips:
- think complementary, not identical
- a wee pop of colour = always a win
- accessories (hats, scarves, jackets) add loads of personality
- for a more timeless look, try to avoid big logos or anything that’ll date quickly
The main thing is you feel comfortable and like yourself.
Adventure sessions
If you’ve booked a longer adventure session, you don’t have to plan anything. Seriously. Step away from Google Maps.
I’ve got:
- locations
- routes
- backup spots
- “oh this looks ace, let’s pull over” energy
I can even drive us between spots so you don’t have to deal with Scottish roads.
You just show up, and I’ll take you on a wee adventure.
Logistics:
When does it happen?
Usually: 2 hours before sunset
That dreamy golden light – that’s why.
Does it eat into dinner plans? Sometimes. Is it worth it? Always.
Where does it happen
You can: pick somewhere meaningful OR let me suggest somewhere awesome.
Urban? Nature? Mountains? Sea? I’ll match the vibe to you.
What to wear (without spiralling)
Rule 1: feel like yourself – comfy > stiff // movement > restriction // layers = elite (this is Scotland after all)
Avoid: massive logos // anything you’ll fidget with constantly
Bring a second outfit if you fancy – but no pressure.
Eat. Please.
Have something to eat before your shoot. No one feels cute when they’re starving. Even a snack + water = game changer.
Midgies (don’t panic)
If they’re about, I’ve got sprays. If they’re not, we celebrate. Either way, you’re covered.
Sunshine in Scotland (I know, shocking)
If it’s sunny: sunscreen (yes, really) // sunglasses (also great for photos)
Glasses wearers
If you can, avoid transition lenses. They go dark faster than Scottish weather changes and I want to see your lovely eyes, not mystery mode.
Weather chat (IMPORTANT)
If it rains, we roll with it. Some of my favourite photos ever happened in “well… this is unfortunate” weather.
Also: Scottish weather changes its mind every 5 minutes and what looks like doom, often ends up fine.
So don’t stress. I’ve got you.
Dogs
Bringing your dog? Absolutely YES.
Just expect a little bit of chaos (the good kind). We’ll go with the flow, embrace whatever they decide to do, and get some very cute moments along the way.
The whole point of this
You’ll walk away with:
- photos you actually love
- a confidence boost
- and the realisation that being photographed isn’t nearly as scary as you thought
And honestly? Most couples end up saying: “That was actually… fun??” YUP.
