Lauren and Dave had a pre-wedding shoot before their Iceland elopement day. The couple eloped in January and the amount of daylight can be from 4-5 hours. This is one of the reasons they had also a pre-wedding shoot in Iceland. But let’s go through a couple of reasons to have a pre-wedding shoot in Iceland.

Pre-wedding shoot in Iceland

Embarking on an Iceland elopement is a unique adventure, and many couples are considering the idea of a pre-wedding photoshoot to capture moments before the main event. Let's delve into the practical aspects, exploring the pros and cons of having a pre-wedding photoshoot before your Iceland elopement.

Pros of Having a Pre-Wedding Photoshoot:

1. Practice Run: A pre-wedding photoshoot serves as a valuable practice run. It allows you to get comfortable in front of the camera, understand your photographer's style, and establish a rapport. This familiarity can contribute to more relaxed and authentic images on your elopement day.

2. Stress-Free Exploration: With a pre-wedding photoshoot, you have the flexibility to explore multiple locations and experiment with different settings without the time constraints of your elopement day. This freedom can lead to discovering hidden gems and capturing diverse images that reflect the essence of your connection.

3. Wardrobe Trial: A pre-wedding shoot provides an opportunity for a wardrobe trial. Testing your chosen outfits in the Icelandic landscape allows you to assess their practicality, comfort, and how they complement the surroundings. It's a chance to make any necessary adjustments before your elopement day.

4. Diverse Image Collection: Having a pre-wedding shoot adds variety to your overall collection of images. The photoshoot can take place in different settings or weather conditions, giving you a broader range of visuals that showcase the versatility of Iceland's landscapes.

5. More Time for Creativity: A separate pre-wedding session provides your photographer with additional time for creativity. They can experiment with different angles, lighting, and compositions, delivering a set of images that complements the storytelling aspect of your elopement.

Cons of Having a Pre-Wedding Photoshoot:

1. Added Expense: One of the primary cons is the additional cost. Planning a pre-wedding shoot involves extra time, effort, and potentially accommodation expenses. Couples should weigh the financial aspect against the value they expect to gain from the session.

2. Time Constraint: If your schedule in Iceland is tight, a pre-wedding photoshoot might add pressure and time constraints. Balancing the shoot with other activities or logistical arrangements for your elopement day can be challenging, and it might not align with your overall timeline.

3. Weather Dependency: Iceland's weather can be unpredictable. While having a pre-wedding shoot offers flexibility, adverse weather conditions may limit the desired locations or the overall quality of the images. It's a gamble that couples should consider based on their tolerance for weather-related uncertainties.

4. Potential Repetition: There's a risk of capturing similar images during both the pre-wedding shoot and the elopement day. While each session may offer unique moments, some couples may find that the diversity they hoped for is not substantial enough to justify the extra session.

5. Limited Spontaneity: A pre-wedding shoot involves a structured approach to capturing specific moments. While this is beneficial for planned shots, it may limit the spontaneity that can arise naturally during your elopement day. Some couples prefer the authenticity that comes from capturing moments in real time

Making the Decision: What Works for You?

1. Consider Your Priorities: Assess the importance of having a pre-wedding shoot in the context of your overall elopement experience. If capturing additional moments and building familiarity with your photographer is a priority, the pros may outweigh the cons.

2. Factor in Logistics: Evaluate the logistical aspects, including your budget, schedule, and the potential impact of weather conditions. If you have the flexibility and the resources to accommodate a pre-wedding shoot seamlessly, it might be a beneficial addition.

3. Communicate with Your Photographer: Discuss your preferences and concerns with your photographer. They can provide insights based on their experience and guide you in making an informed decision that aligns with your vision for the elopement.

4. Personal Comfort: Consider your comfort level with being in front of the camera. If you anticipate feeling nervous or self-conscious, a pre-wedding shoot can serve as a confidence-building experience, ensuring you are more at ease on your elopement day.