Wedding Photography
Almost every wedding will have a wedding photographer. Their role is very important as they capture the moments of the day. Styling, methods, and equipment have all changed over the years of wedding photographer. However, there are certain components that will always stay constant.
Establish a simple timeline
A timeline has to be established prior to the day. Your photographer requires a certain amount of time to capture certain moments of the day. When working with your photographer, communicate with them pictures that are important to you. This way your photographer can say they require this much time to capture those moments. Your planner should be well versed in flow and pictures so don’t be afraid to ask!
Family photos list
The list is important. One of the hardest parts of your day is smiling for family photos. However, have a list prepared. A list is to provide the photographer and your planner a clear guide to what photos need to be taken. I always suggest to start small and build on the group.
Example:
Bride with brides parents
Bride + Groom with brides parents
Bride + siblings
Bride + Groom + Siblings
Bride + groom+ siblings + parents
Bride + groom + siblings + parents + grandparents
Than you dismiss the brides side and have the grooms side join in. It’s easier then 20 people standing around and waiting their turn. This also gives you less time in the photos and more time spent enjoying the day.
Or if a ton of family photos isn’t your jam, than only have a few select photos. There are many ways to approach the family photo list, but can always be done the best way suited for you as a couple.
Identify important photos
Tell your photographer what is important to you. Is there a specific picture you want. Some examples I’ve had on past weddings are:
- Sunset Photos
- All the cousins
- Dress hanging on the chandelier
- Shoes , rings or a unique component to you and your fiancé
These are just some examples. Allow your photographer to guide the creative process as you’ve selected them for a reason. But do open up and communicate with them what you’d like. If you have a specific vision and you want a certain shot, just simply ask them!
Guests photographers
So this is something that I do see on weddings quite often, and there isn’t really a right answer. Sometimes guests bring their own cameras to capture some alternative photos for the day. That isn’t a problem until that person gets in the way of your photographer. Bear in mind, you’ve paid a photographer based on their value, skill set and styling to capture the day. If you have a paparazzi in your group, that is OK! Just ask them nicely to let the photographer you’ve paid have the lead voice on the wedding day.
Daylight
Make sure you have enough time allotted for photos in daylight. In the summer, it’s not a problem as the sun sets at 830 pm. But a wedding in December, the sun sets at 4:30 pm. Once that natural light is gone, you can’t get it back. Just ensure you get the photos you want before the reception. Tip, google the time of the sunset! Then you know for sure when dusk is, and when sundown is. For a winter wedding, ensure you capture those beautiful sundown photos with the winter wonderland as the backdrop!
Keep these tips in mind when working with your photographer. This gives you more time having fun in front of the camera and not being stressed.