Tips for your Wedding Photoshoot:
Here are some helpful tips & tricks on how to prepare you for your big day!
TIME, TIME, TIME: Allocate about 40-50 minutes for the groom’s party and approximately 60-70 minutes for the bride’s party. If your bridal party is a mix, consider planning for around 1 - 1 1/2 hour(s).
Getting Ready: You do not need to be fully dressed prior to my arrival. Grooms and groomsmen may have their pants and under shirts on. The final dressing shots and shoe images will be captured within the allocated time. Brides & bridesmaids may wear their getting ready clothes/robes for the getting ready shots.
Organization is KEY: Put all of your shoes and important items you wished to be photographed together either in a box or bag. This will make it easier on both you and the photographer.
Gifts, Letters, and Special Moments: If you and your partner/family are plan to exchange gifts/letters among the wedding party or as a couple, please inform your photographer prior to the wedding day. Put the gifts and letters set aside with your shoes and important items. This will make it easy to find and photograph.
Stick to the Schedule: Do your best to adhere to the hair and makeup schedule/timeline. While schedules can shift, starting the day smoothly reduces stress for both you and the photographer.
Plan, Plan, Plan: Decide prior whether you want the natural, candid photos or if you prefer the final, more polished look. If opting for the latter, designate an area as a ‘bag/stuff pile’ to keep clutter out of the shots.
Embrace the Natural Light: Open any windows and blinds to allow the sunlight to come through. Natural light will enhance the images.
Designate an Assistant: Choose a member from each side of the wedding party to be your primary assistant for the day. Give them the duty of answering to your needs. This allows you to have help and reduce stress.
Minimize your Stress: Spend limited time with anyone who might cause you unnecessary stress. Delegate tasks to individuals who are reliable and will not cause any additional anxiety and stress.
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate: Make sure to eat and drink to keep up your energy!Keeping your body fueled & hydrated is essential.
Bottoms up: If planning champagne photos, consider getting an affordable bottle or two just for the popping photographs.
Relax and be in the moment: This is your BIG day! Relax, it will go smoothly. Let your family, friends, stylist and wedding party members know that the getting ready session is very laid-back in terms of photography. There is no need to pause and pose for the camera or worry about what to do with their hands (most asked question all photographers ask). I will be documenting the natural flow of the day and will direct when necessary.
Remember, we are looking to photograph the authentic story. Just relax, be in the moment. The getting ready shots are about capturing the genuine emotions and the natural atmosphere of the big day. By following these tips and tricks we can ensure that that the process is smooth and enjoyable for all the parties involved.