Best Pre-Wedding Shoot Locations in New Zealand
Pre-wedding shoot in Wanaka, New Zealand
If you’re looking for breathtaking backdrops for your pre-wedding shoot - scenes that will INSPIRE you as you journey into marriage - you need to come to New Zealand. You’ll leave with stunning photos, and the BEST memories in a country that embodies the breath of fresh air you need amidst the busyness of a wedding. So, grab your partner's hand and let's dive into some jaw-dropping locations for your pre-wedding shoot! To make the decision even easier, I’ve included vendor suggestions and my top tips as well :)
But wait, what is a Pre-Wedding Shoot?
A pre-wedding shoot (or post-wedding works too!) is for couples who want to dedicate time outside of their wedding day for photos of just the two of them. It allows you to take your time with your couple portraits, and set apart the wedding day for the ceremony and for spending time with your guests. It means you can have the best of both elopements and traditional weddings, because if you want to, you can absolutely make an adventure out of your PWS!
Ready to check out some of New Zealand’s best PWS locations? Let’s dive in, for real this time.
1. Pre-Wedding Shoot in Wanaka: Where Love Meets Serenity
Along the shore of Lake Wanaka
Picture this: crystal-clear lakes, majestic mountains, and endless stretches of natural beauty. Wanaka, nestled in the heart of New Zealand's South Island, is a paradise for couples seeking a tranquil yet awe-inspiring backdrop for their pre-wedding shoot. Whether you're strolling hand-in-hand along the lakeshore or gazing into each other's eyes amidst the snow-capped peaks after a helicopter ride, Wanaka promises a magical experience that will be etched in your memories forever.
We worked with Wanaka Helicopters for this beautiful shoot!
2. Pre-Wedding Shoot in Queenstown: Romance Amidst Adventure
For the adventurous souls who believe love is an adventure in itself, Queenstown is the ultimate playground. From soaring mountain ranges to serene lakes and adrenaline-pumping activities, Queenstown offers a diverse range of settings to capture your love story in all its glory. Imagine exchanging vows against the backdrop of the Remarkables or stealing a kiss with the majestic Lake Wakatipu behind you. Queenstown is where romance meets adventure in the most breathtaking way possible.
3. Pre-Wedding Shoot in Auckland - Piha Beach: Untamed Beauty
If your hearts beat to the rhythm of crashing waves and golden sunsets, Piha Beach on New Zealand's west coast is the perfect canvas for your pre-wedding shoot. With its rugged cliffs, black sand beaches, and dramatic rock formations, Piha Beach exudes raw, untamed beauty that is unique to the North Island. Whether you're cuddled up with my trusty lanterns or dipping your toes in the surf, Piha Beach offers endless opportunities for capturing intimate moments against nature's breathtaking backdrop.
5 Tips for the Perfect Pre-Wedding Shoot:
1. Dress to Impress:
Unlike engagement shoots, where couples usually wear more casual outfits, full wedding attire is absolutely appropriate for a PWS. Choose outfits that reflect your personalities and complement the chosen location. Consider the fabric texture and how it drapes and moves - this will add dimension and capture how it felt, holding each other in the majesty of New Zealand’s beaches and mountain tops.
Make up by Lyvie Lee
2. Find an Experienced Wedding Photographer:
Your pre-wedding shoot is a collaboration between you, your partner, and your photographer. Book an experienced photographer and everything else will fall into place. Look for someone whose style resonates with you and who understands your vision for the shoot. If you think that someone is me, you can click here to get in touch!
Me (Ioana), clearly loving my job!
Communication is key – make sure you convey your ideas and preferences so that the photos are as meaningful to you as they are stunning. Don’t hesitate to ask questions! A great photographer will want to know your top priorities going into a shoot, and any details you’d love captured. If you’re unsure of what you want, don’t worry, experienced photographers will know what to do! Plus they can also put you in touch with fantastic vendors.
A vintage-inspired wedding shoot in Queenstown with the help of the cutest Volkswagen
3. Hair and Make up:
Professional hair and make up will not only complete your look, but keep it lasting throughout the shoot - not to mention, it’s always a nice treat to be pampered, isn’t it?
My go-to for make up and hair for Queenstown and Wanaka is Georgie Henderson. With 15 years of experience, you’ll feel at ease in her hands.
For make up in Auckland, check out the lovely Lyvie Lee! Specialising in Korean make up and skincare, she loves highlighting clients’ best features, leaving them feeling youthful and fresh.
Make up and hair by Georgie Henderson
4. Wedding Shoot Props: From Bouquets to Champagne!
This is definitely a “cherry on top” but talk to your photographer about props! Flowers, umbrellas, and lamps are a few examples of items that will add dimension to the photos, AND also make a useful prop for when you’re not sure what to do with your hands. Consider what makes sense for the location and weather.
For florals in Auckland, I’d go with Minhee, the florist and face behind Florious Flowers.
Check out The Flower Room for beautiful bouquets and arrangements in Queenstown/Wanaka.
A champagne pop could also be lots of fun!
5. Enjoy each other during your Pre-Wedding Shoot
Amidst the excitement of everything, don't forget to savour the experience with your partner. Take breaks to soak in the beauty around you, laugh together, and embrace the love that brought you here in the first place.
Your pre-wedding shoot isn't just about capturing photos; it's about creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
Kind words from the Wanaka PWS
Ioana was an absolute dream to work with - we are from Singapore and were looking for a NZ based photographer to capture our Pre Wedding Shoot. We stumbled upon Ioana's profile @seleaphotography - and were obsessed with her portfolio as she captured the most dreamy and romantic photos of couples. We wanted the same magical experience and hired her for our PWS.
- Lynette Teo
So, whether you're dreaming of a serene lakeside escape, an adventurous mountain rendezvous, or a romantic beach getaway, these breathtaking locations offer the perfect backdrop for your pre-wedding shoot. Let your love story unfold against the backdrop of nature's timeless beauty, and cherish every moment along the way. After all, your love deserves to be captured in the most inspiring settings imaginable.
