Best Pre-Wedding Shoot Locations
I’m James, a Kent Wedding Photographer based in Thanet, and pre-wedding shoots are one of my favourite things to do. Not because of the photos — though they’re usually beautiful — but because of what happens to couples during them. By the end of an hour together, most people who came in anxious about being in front of a camera are relaxed, laughing, and completely forgetting I’m there. That carries directly into the wedding day.
The location matters, but less than people think. Good light, a place you feel comfortable, and a photographer you trust will outperform the most Instagram-famous backdrop with the wrong combination of the above.
That said — here are the locations I’d recommend, starting with the ones I know best.
Kent: The Best Local Locations
If you’re getting married in Kent, or if you’re local and want to avoid a long drive, Kent has some genuinely exceptional spots.
Botany Bay, Broadstairs
My most-used location and for good reason. The chalk stacks are distinctive and instantly recognisable, the beach is relatively uncrowded outside peak summer weekends, and the cove shape means there’s usually somewhere sheltered whatever the wind is doing. At low tide the rock pools and exposed chalk create interesting foreground texture. At golden hour the cliffs go warm and the light on the sand is exceptional.
Best time: late afternoon in spring or autumn. Avoid busy summer weekends unless you’re happy with other people in the background.
Viking Bay, Broadstairs
A different mood entirely from Botany Bay — Viking Bay is the main Broadstairs beach, with the town’s rooftops and the harbour wall behind it. More colour, more character, a more human feel. The beach huts add a classic British coastal backdrop. It suits couples who want something warm and relaxed rather than dramatic.
Best time: early morning in summer when the beach is empty, or late afternoon in the off-season.
Perry Woods, near Selling
For couples who want something away from the coast, Perry Woods near Selling is one of the better woodland locations in Kent. Ancient woodland, good dappled light through the canopy in summer, and a quiet atmosphere that tends to help couples relax. Particularly strong in spring (bluebells) and autumn (colour). Worth the drive from anywhere in east or mid-Kent.
Best time: golden hour in autumn, or mid-morning in spring during bluebell season.
The Kent Countryside
My most-used location and for good reason. The chalk stacks are distinctive and instantly recognisable, the beach is relatively uncrowded outside peak summer weekends, and the cove shape means there’s usually somewhere sheltered whatever the wind is doing. At low tide the rock pools and exposed chalk create interesting foreground texture. At golden hour the cliffs go warm and the light on the sand is exceptional.
Best time: late afternoon in spring or autumn. Avoid busy summer weekends unless you’re happy with other people in the background.
A few things worth knowing
Golden hour is real. The hour before sunset gives a quality of light that’s difficult to replicate at any other time of day. If you’re choosing between shooting at 2pm and shooting at 6pm, always choose 6pm.
Weather doesn’t need to be perfect. Overcast days give beautiful soft light with no harsh shadows. Wind adds movement. I’ve shot in light drizzle and the photos were among the best from the session. Don’t cancel for clouds — cancel for heavy rain.
Wear something you feel good in, not something you think you should wear. The couples who look most natural in pre-wedding photos are always the ones who dressed for themselves. Coordinated doesn’t have to mean matching — just complementary.
Tell me if you’re camera-shy. I’d rather know upfront. My approach is to keep things moving and find things to do rather than asking you to stand still and stare at a lens — but it helps to know where you’re starting from.
FAQ: Pre-Wedding Shoots
What is a pre-wedding shoot?
A pre-wedding shoot (also called an engagement shoot) is a photography session with your photographer before the wedding day. Usually an hour or two, at a location of your choice. The photos are yours to keep, and the process is as much about getting comfortable with the camera as it is about the images themselves.
Do I need a pre-wedding shoot?
Not strictly — plenty of couples skip it and have brilliant wedding photos. But if you’re camera-shy, or if you’re not sure how you’ll feel on the day, it’s one of the most useful things you can do. The difference in how relaxed people are after an hour together is significant.
How long does a pre-wedding shoot take?
Most sessions run 1–2 hours. That’s enough time to cover two or three spots within a location, try a few different things, and get past the initial awkward phase without exhausting yourselves.
Can we do the shoot at our wedding venue?
Yes — and it can work really well, particularly if you want images from the venue before the day. Some venues charge a fee for access outside of weddings, so worth checking with them first. But saying that, it’s important to choose a location which is special to you.
When should we do our pre-wedding shoot?
Ideally 2–6 months before the wedding. Far enough out that there’s no pressure, close enough that the excitement is building. Spring and autumn tend to give the best light and manageable temperatures.
Are pre-wedding shoots included in packages?
It depends on the package. Take a look at my wedding photography pricing for what’s included get in touch and I can put together something that works for you.
Looking for a Pre-Wedding Photographer in Kent?
I’m James — a documentary wedding photographer based in Thanet. I offer pre-wedding shoots across Kent and further afield. Get in touch here or take a look at my pricing.