Wedding Photography Guide
In each of the sections below, I offer simple tips on how you can help me achieve cleaner, more beautiful photos on your wedding day. Each section is divided into different parts of the day with suggested coverage durations that you can use when putting together your photography schedule.
First and foremost...
Focus on what matters and I will take care of the rest.
Remember, if your mind is focused on expectations for the day or fear of potential consequences, then how will you allow yourself to express the things that make your relationship so awesome? You always look amazing. If something isn’t quite right, I will step in to adjust.
Hair and Makeup
Many clients ask whether they should have photography coverage of their prep. I would definitely lean towards yes, ideally for the final 30 - 45 minutes. Not only does it give me a chance to make some really beautiful images of you getting ready, but it also gives me time to break the ice with whoever else is in the room (i.e. bridesmaids, siblings or other family...)
Preparation: 30 - 45 minutes
Window light is good!
Find a room with a lot of natural window or balcony light. Open the window and do your hair and makeup there. The light will be better and the breeze will keep you relaxed. Also, please turn off any interior lights whenever possible, as they can clash with the natural light. If you're not near a window when I arrive, I will very likely make that adjustment. :)
Try to minimize clutter
Weddings can be chaotic, I get it, but a clean room makes for cleaner, better-looking photos. Try to keep anything that is not entirely necessary (i.e. roller bags, laundry, clothes, especially food), out of the way. I always keep gear that I am not using in the closet.
AirBNB if possible
They are often less expensive and can offer cool, unique details. Generic hotel rooms tend to be, well ... generic. They also don't always offer the best light.
Keep it natural
How you do your makeup is entirely up to you. Just bear in mind that more is not necessarily better. My work will reflect more what is truly there, so if you want to look like yourself, please try not to overdo it.
Once you are in your dress, we’ll spend five or so minutes doing some quick portraits likely next to, you guessed it, a window! Of course, if there is another spot you have in mind, I'm open to that as well.
First Look
Yes, you should do one! It will allow you both to take a moment for yourselves in each other’s arms with no one else around. You can share a hug, take a deep breath and try to calm each other’s nerves. Try not to think of it as an overly staged occasion, but rather a simple, intimate moment for you both to share. It only happens once...
First Look: 30 minutes
Finding the right location...
If you are planning a first look, I will scout a nice location with good light beforehand. When it is time, I will go out to position the groom first and then I will send someone back to retrieve the bride. Take a deep breath and enjoy!
First look alternative...
If your heart is set to lock eyes for the first time as you walk down the aisle, of course that is okay too. Either way, I will be ready for it,
Group Shots: 20 minutes
if possible, Do them before the ceremony
I do like to get group shots over with as quickly and efficiently as possible. I will find a good location for group shots well before the time comes... The best time for family portraits is before the ceremony, that way once the ceremony is complete, everyone can be released for cocktail hour or reception.
Post-ceremony group portraits can be a bit chaotic as people tend to scatter after a ceremony and trying to gather family members as everyone else is exiting might be time consuming.
make a list
Please create a list of every possible combination you would like photographed and assign someone who is familiar with the faces the task of gathering everyone for each shot. This will speed up the process and make everything run more efficiently. This will also ensure that there is no confusion and that everyone gets covered.
If possible, have guests refrain from taking photos during this time
I would ask that we try to minimize guests taking photos during group portraits as this will cause delays. Remember, everyone will have access to the same photos. If people do insist on taking photos, of course that is okay, but I will always take photos once everyone else is finished to ensure all subjects are looking at my camera.
Ceremony
Unplugged is better...
An “unplugged” ceremony is when you ask your guests to refrain from taking photos. This will ensure a better experience for your guests because they will be more engaged with what is taking place without being distracted by cell phone cameras, video and flashes.
Whether or not you decide to do an unplugged ceremony is entirely up to you. As your photographer, I honestly do not care if people around me are taking photos or video as long as you do not feel it’s distracting or disruptive...
Ceremony: Timing is your choice
If you are outdoors, please find open shade for the ceremony if possible, or Make sure you are backlit...
For outdoor ceremonies, open shade is always ideal as the light will be even on everyone. If you must be in direct sunlight, it is ideal to place the sun directly behind your officiant, otherwise you might be very harshly lit and one of you will likely be squinting.
Avoid receiving lines if possible...
A receiving line is where couple greets every single person as they exit the ceremony venue or enter the reception venue. Unless your wedding is very small, I strongly advise against having a receiving line. They are repetitive, time consuming and it will just be overwhelming for you. I would recommend greeting your guests while mingling during cocktail hour. It will be more enjoyable for you and less chaotic.
Avoid mic stands and podiums if possible...
Try to avoid big mic metal stands or podiums as they are distracting and not very attractive. If a mic is being used, please have your officiant use a handheld mic instead.
Portraits
I would ask that family and bridal party members not be present during the session so that we can minimize distractions. It's important that you're engaged with each other during this time.
Portraits: Two 20 minute sessions
After the ceremony...
Why? Because you just got married! You’re both feeling extremely happy like you’re walking on air. The weight is finally off, so this is a perfect time for portraits. If there is not enough time after the ceremony or if you would prefer to go straight to cocktail hour, we will also have a short session after the first look as well.
At sunset/twilight...
Why? The light will probably be too good to pass up a portrait opportunity. If your wedding is indoors, I recommend stepping outside for a few shots, even if it's just for a few minutes. For urban settings, the city lights and lit buildings will also make for some nice shots. If your ceremony is at sunset, we will merge the two sessions into a single 20 – 30 minute post ceremony session.
Reception
As with everything else, my approach for all reception activity is entirely documentary. I go where the action is. If you or any of your guests would like a group photo at any time, please feel free to ask!
Reception: Timing is your choice
I recommend candle & market lights...
My favorite light sources are candlelights combined with market lights. It sets a very nice, romantic mood. Just make sure it's not too dark, as it can be difficult to autofocus working in low light. I try to avoid using flash unless I'm shooting the dance floor, as this can ruin the light. I would be happy to advise you further about this if you'd like!
We should eat when you eat
Ideally, my team and I should eat at the same time as your guests, which ensures we will be free to cover the toasts and/or dances that generally happen after everyone is served. Also, you don't want photos or video of people eating...
Last bit of advice...
Please enjoy yourself! Celebrate LOVE with the people you love! Be yourself in front of the camera and never think you have to act or appear a certain way. Just do whatever makes you comfortable and happy. I will always step in to make adjustments when necessary. I'm available anytime if you want to talk.