Picture Perfect

Camera-shy? Zohaib Ali explains how a pre-wedding shoot can ease nerves

ARTICLE BY : Abha shah

Thinking about having a pre-wedding shoot? You’re not alone, the concept has exploded in popularity over the last few years. More couples than ever are choosing to forever document their magical engagement period through epic, iconic photography.

We spoke to multi award-winning Asian wedding photographer Zohaib Ali about why couples should consider a private photo session before the I Do’s.Why bother with a pre-wedding shoot?
“I like to build genuine friendships with my clients. A pre- wedding shoot is a great way to get to know each other, and it’s also useful for testing different poses and styles. Think of it as a rehearsal for the Big Day.”

I don’t want cheesy pictures!
“Neither do I! We’ll brainstorm everything from the location to the clothes and concept. I’ve created all styles, from Old Masters-style fine art that wouldn’t look out of place in the Tate, to glossy, cinematic images that’ll make you look like the stars of a romantic drama. No cheese! Anything’s possible.”

Anything else I should know?
“I only do a select number of weddings each year, and a pre-wedding shoot is built into my packages. It’s a 360 approach to your special event that starts before the Big Day. Need another reason? It’s a great excuse to take time out as a couple and go on a minibreak - who doesn’t love a holiday!?”

CINEMATIC
“I took this shot from the side of the iconic ‘Bow bridge’ in Central Park. The couple, who were from New York, wanted their shoot during the autumn season, when the setting is a mix of vibrant colours and beautiful light.”INTIMATE
“Destination pre-wedding shoots are brilliant for images you’d want to look at forever. This couple and I brainstormed various ideas and themes for their shoot and eventually decided on a Moroccan setting with an Indian feel. I got to work on a theme and soon headed out to Marrakech where we created this gorgeous image together with a beautiful gallery. ”Timeless memoirs: Use your pre- wedding shoot images to create a gallery wall in your new home

EDITORIAL STYLE
“I like to capture images that tell a story. When this glamorous couple gave me control over their shoot, I knew it had to be glossy, like a magazine editorial. I’d already earmarked this luxury shopping arcade in Milan on a scout day and it worked perfectly in reflecting their high-end tastes.”