IDEAS & INSPO
WEDDING
PLANNING
TIPS
TO HELP GET THE BEST PHOTOGRAPHS ON YOUR WEDDING DAY
Hello and welcome! I’m thrilled to have you here! Choosing a photographer whose work resonates with you is undoubtedly crucial, but I firmly believe that the real magic happens in the preparation, communication, and connection you establish with them. It’s these elements that truly pave the way for capturing the most beautiful moments on your big day.
In this comprehensive guide, I’m excited to share with you my top tips on how to make the most out of your wedding photographs. We’ll cover all the bases to ensure your wedding photos are not just visually stunning but also deeply reflective of the emotions and joy of your special day.
Let’s dive into the details and make sure your wedding photos are nothing short of spectacular!
Things to think of…
CONNECTION IS KEY!
Here’s a golden nugget of advice – perhaps the most crucial one! While booking a photographer with work you adore is essential, finding someone you genuinely click with can truly elevate your wedding experience. Imagine having someone around on your big day who not only captures beautiful moments but also makes you feel at ease and enhances the joy of the occasion. Sounds amazing, right?
So, here’s the scoop – take the time to get to know your wedding photographer. Whether it’s an in-person meeting or a virtual chat, connecting with them beforehand can work wonders. You want to feel comfortable and have positive vibes with your photographer, making your wedding day even more special.
TIMING IS EVERYTHING
Here’s another game-changer for you! Collaborating with your wedding photographer while crafting your wedding timeline can significantly enhance the impact of your wedding photography. Why? Well, they bring a unique perspective and can highlight aspects you might not have thought about. Plus, they’re like your trusty guide, helping you navigate the day seamlessly and providing valuable insights into the timing needed for each part to capture those stunning images.
It’s like having a photography wizard by your side, ensuring you make the most out of every moment. So, try and work hand-in-hand with your photographer on that timeline, and get ready for a wedding day filled with picture-perfect memories!
I have an example of a timeline in the next section!
SOMETHING TO CONSIDER
Here’s a gem of an idea for you! Consider a first look—a perfect chance for you and your partner to share a private moment before the ceremony unfolds. Imagine this: just the two of you, with your photographer discreetly capturing these intimate moments from a distance. The magic doesn’t end there!
Once you’ve savored those precious moments, you might decide to capture your bridal party images pre-ceremony. Why is this a game-changer? Well, it frees you up to enjoy cocktail hour with your guests instead of rushing off for a portrait session. It’s all about maximizing your time with loved ones.
And hey, if pre-ceremony jitters are on the horizon, a first look can work wonders in easing those nerves. It’s like a sneak peek into the magic that awaits, making the ceremony even more special.
LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION
When you make your final preparations, consider the physical distance between where you are both getting ready in the morning. The closer you are to each other the less time it takes for me to travel between these locations, thus giving you more of my time to use for the rest of the day.
Please make sure to have the rooms relatively tidy when I arrive, it’ll make your photos look better.
ROOM LIGHTING
Another important factor is window light. Be sure to get ready in a place lit only by window light. Artificial light, such as downlights creates nasty shadows over your face and gives off an unnatural colour to your skin. Also, make-up artists will love you.
UNPLUGGED CEREMONY
I know it may sound crazy, but please consider for a moment an “unplugged” wedding. Tell all of your guests to turn off their phones, put away their cameras and iPads, and then let them be present! The celebrant usually announces this at most weddings and will most likely ask you when you meet with them to plan your ceremony.
START TIME *
I would like to also recommend setting your ceremony start time as late as possible to steer clear of the midday sun, especially in the summer months. Not only will guests be more comfortable but you guys too! The bonus is much better pictures.
* Please allow at least an hour for portraits and mingling with guests after.
I am not here to make your day look unnatural. My mission is to capture the joy of an event you will cherish for years to come in a way that is completely natural, authentic, and sometimes even a bit raw. The best advice I can give is to be you and forget about me.
As for time allocation, please allow at least one hour.
SUNSET
I always like to photograph around sunset as it produces the best light, rather than being hot and harsh during the day. Depending on the time of year when the sun sets at a later time and if you guys are willing, I’d love to take you both out to catch the last bit of light for the day. Most of my couples love this time as they can get a breather and some alone time to absorb everything that’s happened during the day.
Embrace it because one thing you can’t control on the day and that’s the weather! Just think to yourself that you are going to be with all of your amazing family and friends drinking and eating like kings and queens. I can take great images in crazy weather too.
It’s really important to just be you. Enjoy your day as it goes by in a flash. Think of the amazing moments you’re going to have and don’t worry about the little things. You have an amazing team around you and it’s going to be perfect!
LIKE CLOCKWORK
Wedding Timeline
A well-crafted wedding timeline is the backbone of a seamless and stress-free wedding day. It serves as the guiding thread that ensures all elements of your wedding harmonise effortlessly. One of its crucial roles is keeping all the vendors synchronised. From the florist to the photographer, the caterer to the DJ, every vendor relies on this timeline to coordinate their efforts effectively. With everyone on the same page, the day unfolds like a well-choreographed dance, allowing each vendor to showcase their talents and contribute to the overall success of the event.
Furthermore, a thoughtfully constructed wedding timeline is the key to a stress-free day for the couple and their families. It alleviates the burden of constantly checking the clock, worrying about when and where each part of the day should happen. Instead, the timeline serves as a trusted roadmap, allowing you to focus on what truly matters – your love and the celebration of your commitment.
