Suggestions for YOUR best wedding
photographic experience.
This list was compiled after I had watched several couples stress because they weren't really aware of how much goes into the photography aspect of a wedding. These are meant as suggestions to help improve the experience, not to dictate policy.
Those included in the formal wedding portraits (i.e - the bride, groom, bridal party, ect) are usually the most stressed and busy. Following these suggestions will help ensure the smoothest photographic memories possible in the most efficient time.
CONGRATULATIONS!!!! Together, you and your photographer can make your wedding day last forever!
NUMBER 1 (this suggestion is #1 because it is of utmost importance)- Remember, just because your friend has a really nice camera or likes photography, that doesn't mean that they can deliver professional quality pictures. Don't trust your biggest day to them unless you KNOW what they can do at a wedding. Your day should not be a learning experience for a new photographer.
2 -Have a location in mind where you would like to have your portraits taken and make sure it looks the way you expect a day or 2 before the wedding. Scenery changes every season, potentially weekly. Having a backup location might also be a good idea.
3 - High quality portraits take time, schedule accordingly. (Don't forget any travel time for on location shoots.)
4 - Remember, light is crucial! If doing outdoor portraits, dusk is NOT a friend of the camera. If doing indoor portraits, adequate light is essential. Portraits at sunset (if any) should be the last ones done.
5 - If the "portraits" involve a lot of family, make sure they know and are ready to be there. Have a list of all the different groups of portraits to be taken and have a friend, who is not on the list but who is familiar with everyone on the list, there to manage the list.
6 - Don't assume that because you know where you are going or who is to be there that THEY know. Make sure everyone involved is aware of where they are to be and when. (Perhaps add a run thru to the rehearsal schedule.)
7 - All possible portraits should be done BEFORE the ceremony. (i.e - the bride & her party, groom & his party, family, ect. ect.) This will save time and stress so that YOU can enjoy YOUR party.
8 - If children are to be in the formal pictures, please make sure that they are fed, rested and have used the restroom. (For your sanity as well as theirs.)
9 - Remember that each additional person is a potential complication, have as many as you want, just be prepared.
Definitions:
Portraits = formal posed pictures for wedding mementos. These should not be rushed and should be fun for all involved. These include ones such as bride and groom, bride and parents, groom and parents, bridal party, ect.
Live Event Shots = These include the ceremony, the reception, the dances.... any "in the moment" shots.
Memory Moment Shots = These include bridal preparations, signing the marriage license, the receiving line (this should be planned and will take time), the private moments of the bride & groom immediately following the ceremony and the cake cutting ceremony.
I know this list is extensive and may seem a little daunting, but without it the portrait session can become overwhelming and VERY chaotic. Your wedding day is your day, the more you follow these suggestions, the more efficient and enjoyable the experience will be. Making this list a part of your planning process will aide in the ease of the portrait process and will help keep things calm and possibly eliminate any unexpected hiccups.
I hope this list helps you in knowing what to expect and helps you to enjoy your experience with as little stress as possible.
Sincerely,
Dannie Zane
If you would like a free copy of this list, please email me at the address below. Thanks!
