What Is a Pre-Wedding Session and How to Do It Right?
As a professional wedding photographer and videographer in Toronto, I’ve worked with many couples who wanted more than just photos from their wedding day—they wanted a calm, romantic, and meaningful way to capture their love story ahead of time. That’s where pre-wedding photography comes in.
If you’re newly engaged or planning your wedding, this guide will help you understand exactly what a pre-wedding session is, why it matters, and how you can plan one that feels personal and unforgettable.
🌿 What Is Pre-Wedding Photography?
A pre-wedding shoot is a photo and video session that takes place weeks before the actual wedding. It’s a relaxed experience for couples to capture their love story in a natural, unhurried setting—far from the stress of wedding-day timelines.
There’s no rush, no crowd—just you, your partner, and your creative team, making magic in a location you love.
💍 Why Do a Pre-Wedding Shoot?
Here are five key reasons why pre-wedding photography is growing in popularity across Toronto:
- Less pressure – You’re not dealing with guests, schedules, or time crunches.
- Creative freedom – Pick your dream location, outfit, and style.
- Comfort in front of the camera – Get used to posing naturally before the big day.
- Professional visuals for your reception – Many couples show their pre-wedding video during the wedding.
- An extra memory to cherish – The shoot itself becomes part of your love story.
📅 When Should You Schedule It?
The ideal time for a pre-wedding session is 3 to 4 weeks before the wedding. This allows enough time for editing and producing any visuals you want to use during your celebration.
Of course, if you’re not planning to showcase your pre-wedding footage at the wedding, you can schedule it at any time of year—ideally when the weather complements your desired theme.
🗺️ Where to Shoot in Toronto?
Toronto is filled with stunning locations that are perfect for pre-wedding photography. Here are some of my favorites:
- Harbourfront & Lake Ontario – Classic, breezy waterfront vibes.
- Distillery District – Historic charm and cobblestone streets.
- High Park – Natural beauty, especially in spring or fall.
- Scarborough Bluffs – Dramatic cliffs and lake views.
- Graffiti Alley – Urban, creative, and vibrant.
- Edward Gardens – Peaceful, floral, and elegant.
👗 What Should You Wear?
When it comes to pre-wedding outfits, comfort and coordination are key. You can choose formal, casual, or a mix of both. Here’s what I recommend:
For Brides:
- Flowing white or pastel dresses
- Floral crowns or elegant accessories
- Comfortable shoes for walking & posing
For Grooms:
- Smart casual outfits like dress shirts and blazers
- Suspenders, bowties, or fun accessories
- Coordinated color tones with the bride
💡 Tip: Bring 2–3 outfit changes for variety!
💄 Hair & Makeup Tips
Your pre-wedding makeup doesn’t have to be as heavy or detailed as wedding-day glam. Opt for a light, camera-friendly look that lasts through the shoot.
For hair, go with something that matches your outfit and theme—loose waves, ponytails, or a messy bun work great. You’re free to explore different styles since it’s a separate event.
💰 How Much Does Pre-Wedding Photography Cost in Toronto?
For a full-day pre-wedding session, the average price in Toronto is about $1,500 CAD.
This usually includes:
- Up to 4–5 hours of shooting
- Photo coverage
- Location guidance and creative direction
- Professional editing of images
- Short cinematic video (optional)
- Outfit and styling support
📦 Some studios offer combined wedding + pre-wedding packages for better value.
📸 Pro Tips for a Flawless Session
- Book early, especially in spring and fall.
- Plan your session around sunset (golden hour) for magical lighting.
- Bring props: bouquet, picnic setup, bike, books, guitar—whatever fits your story.
- Stay hydrated and bring light snacks, especially for outdoor sessions.
- Discuss your expectations and comfort level with your photographer in advance.
❤️ Final Thoughts
A pre-wedding session isn’t just a photoshoot—it’s a meaningful, beautiful chapter in your love story.
Whether it’s walking by the lake, laughing under autumn leaves, or dancing under city lights, pre-wedding photography in Toronto lets you express your connection in a truly personal way.
So, if you’re looking to create timeless memories before the wedding chaos begins—this is your moment.
📩 Thinking about planning a pre-wedding shoot in Toronto?
Let’s connect and craft something unforgettable together.