Has there ever been a destination you’d envision for your engagement, elopement or simply a perfect romantic getaway just for the two of you? I know there must be a place that feels extra special, whether it’s somewhere you’ve been to or somewhere you’ve always wanted to visit. 

Now, imagine booking two flights, packing a suitcase and taking your other half just there. But how about having your adventure professionally captured? 

-“Wait… Booking a photographer for a destination photoshoot?”

Exactly that. If you’ve ever wanted a couple photoshoot, what can be better than organising it in your favourite destination and capturing the two of you in the most incredible settings? The beauty of such a session is the opportunity to explore spectacular locations and capture it all exactly how it felt. If travelling is close to your heart, having your photographs taken in your favourite place will be extra special. 

We put together this guide to planning a destination couple photoshoot to give you ideas of what to expect and consider while booking one.

 

Why should we book a couple photoshoots in the first place? 

 

An engagement or just a couple shoot is a chance for us to capture some really beautiful, candid photos of you and your partner in a natural and relaxed environment. Just the two of you, being you. Plus, if you’re a little camera-shy, it’s a perfect opportunity for you to practice being comfortable in front of it in the lead up to your wedding day. 

After all, how many professionally taken photos do you and your partner have? Ones that you really love and you’d fill your home with? 

Investing in your couple photoshoot is one of the best gifts you can give to each other. Whether it’s the Valentine’s Day gift or a treat for your anniversary- you will cherish these photographs forever. 

 

How to pick the best location for a destination couple photoshoot? 

 

Picking the best location depends on what’s closest to your heart. Do you lean towards the romantic streets of Paris or maybe it’s the dramatic coastline of Northern Mallorca that you can picture yourself at? Setting the right mood for your photoshoot is key in choosing the right location. How about having a good old browse on Pinterest? (Hush hush, we even created an inspiration moodboard HERE!)

Instagram is also a great source of inspiration, which I’m sure you already know. If you have the idea of wanting a couple photoshoot, keep saving the photos and locations that made you think ‘wow, I’d like that for myself’ and share them with your photographer. Having a clear vision of what you’d love for your photoshoot is already a huge step towards planning a session of your dreams. 

 

How to organise a destination couple photoshoot?

 

There are many photographers out there who specialise in sessions abroad- just like ourselves! If you landed on this page and love what you’re seeing so far- simply navigate to the CONTACT section and drop us a message! Here’s where your journey begins. 

Your destination photographer will know how to suggest the best locations for your photoshoot. They will advise on the logistics and timings, considering all the factors you may not have thought about. Booking a photographer who works abroad often will lift a planning weight off your shoulders.

 

What to consider when planning a destination couple photoshoot?

 

1. Logistics

 

Finding yourself in unfamiliar destinations has its challenges. Being aware of the geographic is a necessary part of the research leading up to an awesome couple session. As destination photographers, we spend long hours before our trips, locating the most jaw dropping spots that we can take you both around. 

To make the entire experience smooth and easy, we manage car rentals and take you on a road trip, discovering your chosen destination together. 

 

2. Weather

 

Regardless if in the UK or abroad, weather can have a huge impact on your photoshoot. Although many destinations in Europe may seem to have perfect weather guaranteed, it’s not always the case. For example, Greece tends to get extremely windy during low season months (October-April), and you will see a lot of rain in the South of Italy around that time. Don’t take the weather for granted, unless you’re ready to embrace it! 

 

3. Time of the year

 

In summer, popular holiday destinations are usually crowded with tourists. Finding a way around this is also a big part of the planning process. Choosing intimate and quiet locations will not only help the look of your final images, but also will make you feel comfortable while shooting.

Although winter and low season months are more budget friendly and mean less tourists, you need to be aware that the days are shorter and that equals less daylight which may affect the logistics. 

 

4. Activities

 

Fancy a quick shoot on a boat? Let’s make the most of what your location has to offer. Whether that’s a boat ride, vintage car rental or a swim in the sea, there are many ways to add creativity to your session. If you wonder whether it’s worth to invest in any extras- keep scrolling and see what we were able to create last time!

 

5. Styling

 

Outfit planning is our favourite part of designing each shoot- UK or abroad. It’s incredibly important to choose the right style for the right vibe of your couple photoshoot. While having the location in mind, we would come up with numerous ideas and present to you in a mood board. We always recommend having backup outfits, or even extra options chosen on purpose! After all, you never know how the shoot will unfold and adding more variety to your final images is never a bad thing.

 

Summary

 

Thank you a lot for your time reading our guide to planning a destination couple photoshoot! We hope that the above will make you consider booking one in the future.

 

Photographer: Marta D. Weddings

Organiser: Rebecca Carpenter Photography

Planning: The Stars Inside

Womenswear: Rat & Boa

Hats: Rebecca Ann Designs

Hair & Makeup: Bridal Makeup Greece

Boat: Don Blue Yachting