The Wedding Guide

Getting Ready

The most important part of preparing for your photography coverage is readiness. By this, I don't mean being fully dressed and ready to leave, but rather having everything ready for when your photographer arrives. Firstly, ensure you have a space with ample natural light that is free of clutter. A clean, well-lit room significantly enhances the quality of your photos. Secondly, have your details prepared, including wedding rings, invitation suite, shoes, dress, jewelry, watches, and any items significant to your story. Detail photos typically initiate coverage and help transition smoothly into the rest of the getting ready photos. Thirdly, maintain calmness. At this point in the day, nerves may be mounting, not only for the bride and groom but also for everyone in the wedding party. As things become more real, continually remind yourself to enjoy and relax. Tension and stress can be apparent in your photos, and there is no Photoshop fix for that.

First Look & Portraits

The most common question for couples is usually whether they want to do a first look or not, and honestly, it's entirely up to you! There is no right or wrong answer, but I will outline a few advantages of opting for it. Firstly, and most importantly, you get to experience an amazing moment seeing each other for the first time in a more private setting. This allows you to simply let your feelings and love for each other unfold. It's simple and wonderful! Secondly, it enables you to complete most, if not all, of your photos before the ceremony. Taking the portraits, wedding party photos, and formal family photos beforehand means that after the ceremony, everyone can proceed directly to the cocktail hour and start enjoying themselves. Lastly, a first look allows you to have your portrait session while you are still looking and feeling your best. As the day progresses and you move around, your hair, makeup, dress, and tuxedo may start to lose their pristine appearance. If you look and feel good during your portrait session, you'll undoubtedly appreciate your photos much more.

Wedding Party Photos

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Family Formals

Just like the wedding party photos keeping the formal family photos quick and easy will go a long way. The number one thing is letting your family know that they will be in a photo during this time of the day. Also, having a list of photo combinations for your photographer will be super helpful as they will be able to go right down the list and not miss any important family members. To keep you and your photographer from going crazy try to keep your photo combinations of your immediate family only. Remember you can always snatch your aunt and uncle for a photo during the reception. Here is a sample list of photo combinations. Remember to right out names on the list so your photographer can simply call the person over.

Bride + Groom + Bride's Parents + Groom's Parents

Bride + Groom + Bride's Parents + Groom's Parents + All Siblings

Bride + Groom + Bride's Parents

Bride + Groom + Bride's Parents + Bride's Siblings

Bride + Bride's Parents

Bride + Bride's Mom

Bride + Bride's Dad

Bride + Groom + Groom's Parents

Bride + Groom + Groom's Parents + Bride's Siblings

Groom + Groom's Parents

Groom + Groom's Mom

Groom + Groom's Dad