A pre-wedding photoshoot is a not-entirely-new, but hot idea gaining popularity among grooms- and brides-to-be. More and more wedding photographers decide to offer it along with a wedding package. It’s not only an amazing souvenir to go back to when remembering your pre-wedding time together in the future, but it will also allow you both to get to know the photographer you decide to invite on your most important day.

Why should you have a pre-wedding photoshoot?

The photographer has a chance to find out something about you and the nature of your relationship to be able to adjust his or her ideas and techniques, see what suits you and what should be avoided, and you get the chance to familiarize yourself with a camera. You can tell about your wedding plans and important details and exchange photos ideas. Thanks to that, you won’t feel tense or uncomfortable being photographed by a complete stranger on your wedding day.

The location for a pre-wedding photoshoot should be special – maybe a place that means something to you as a couple, or a location that you have always wanted to visit. There were even cases, as we were told by an agent from Hilton Head Real Estate, where couples arranged their photoshoots in certain places that they end up loving so much, they decided to buy their first house together there.

Treat it as a warm-up before the big day and the wedding photoshoot. And if you don’t have any ideas as to where you should have your pre-wedding shoot, we’ve got you covered. Here are some of the best destinations in the US:

1. Antelope Canyon, Arizona

This is the place to visit, no matter if you’re getting married, hitchhiking with a friend, or looking for a place to run away for a while. It’s one of a kind, mysterious, and absolutely mesmerizing, both in real life and in photos. This sandstone canyon offers wonderful places, views, and sunlight – everything you need for the perfect pre-wedding photoshoot.

2. New York City, New York

New York City has it all – beautiful city lights during the night, skyscrapers where you can go up and photograph amazing views, Central Park, Botanical Gardens, and other places if you prefer to have your photoshoot in a more natural setting, or the most photogenic Brooklyn Bridge. Times Square may be crowded, but the photos that are taken there are always unique. Not everyone dreams about nature-themed photos, so if you’re more of a city couple with the love for lights, billboards, and busy streets, New York City is the place to go.

3. Napa Valley, California

Head north from San Francisco and you will find yourself in paradise. California is well-known for its wines, and that’s a place where a lot of them are being produced. Hundreds of hillside vineyards, green hills, lush valleys, quiet and peace. In the city of Napa, you will also find a local market where you will be able to taste regional food, and even buy yourself a hot air balloon flight. Unforgettable experience.

4. La Jolla Cove, California

This tiny, picturesque beach and cove will steal your heart in an instant. Surrounded by cliffs, full of palms, it’s a part of a marine reserve, and it’s especially popular among divers and snorkelers. It’s a place to go if that’s your hobby as well, but even if you don’t go into the water, you can have the most amazing photoshoot there. And if you’re lucky, you will catch some cute seals as well.

5. Nantucket, Massachusetts

It’s one of the top destinations for all people who loves being surrounded by the ocean and spend their time on beautiful beaches, but Nantucket is much more than that. Unpainted, cedar-shingled buildings all over the island create a unique view and a homely atmosphere. Lovely, cobblestoned streets are full of little restaurants, fancy boutiques, and pretty, steepled churches.

6. Jackson Hole, Wyoming

This is a popular skiing area, but it’s worth visiting at any time of the year. High, majestic mountains, beautiful, undisturbed lakes, miles and miles of green grass and fields, or everything covered in snow – it depends on what you prefer. Whether you’re nature-lovers or maybe you’re especially fond of small, mountain towns and bigger, ski resorts, you will find Wyoming perfect for you.

7. The Cloister, Georgia

This is not only a five-star accommodation, but also an almost one-hundred-years old pearl of the southern architecture. Feel like thousands of people who were visiting this place frequently during the Roaring Twenties, visit picturesque beaches and walk around the green fields of Sea Island.

8. George Peabody Library, Maryland

It’s the 19th-century library of the Johns Hopkins University in the city of Baltimore. It’s located in the most charming, historic neighborhoods, and it’s probably the best choice if you’re both bookworms. There’s a reason why it’s regarded as one of the most beautiful libraries in the whole world.

Feel inspired yet? Remember that, whatever you choose, it’s the most important for you and your partner to feel comfortable and happy. Your happiness is basically all you need to have a great photoshoot.