Your wedding day is nearing and your dreams are about to become true. How can you ensure that those dreams are captured? As a wedding photographer, I have many ideas that can maximize your day and yet preserve those memories for all time.
Here are some ideas that you may want to consider:
1. Plan for a romantic walk without the guests and bridal party. Yes, this must be planned for – because in the hectic rush of the day, it often gets pushed aside. But if you don’t plan for it and make time for it – it just won’t happen. Whenever I show my albums to couples, they immediately zero in on the romantic “alone” shots. So if you want those kinds of pictures hanging in frames in your house or in your album – make time for it!
2. Related to the romantic walk and making time for it – limit your time for formal pictures. Each formal grouping takes 3-4 minutes – and that assumes that everyone is present and that other photographers (the paparazzi aunts and uncles) aren’t diverting the attention from the main photographer. I have been to weddings where every permutation and combination of family units was captured in the camera. There are several problems with this – in all of my albums over the years, the bride has only chosen one or two of these formals for their album. The formal session should really be short so that a) the bride and groom can go on that romantic walk (see #1) and b) so that the partying can begin. Formals are important – just don’t get so carried away with them though that the more important time is lost. We can get the groups later in the reception.
3. Related to #2 – make sure that there is clear communication between all family members and bridal party members as to where they should be meeting for the formal pictures. After all, if Aunt Sally is missing from the shot of the extended family – you’ll want to retake it later or forever be missing that person! Less time for that romantic walk !!!
4. Forget about the guests for a moment when you are doing those important things – look at your spouse. Get mushy! Don’t worry about looking at the camera. It’s a much better picture if you look at each other! Don’t be afraid to be affectionate. Enjoy your spouse! Get close! Nuzzle his or her cheek occasionally. That’s what I love to photograph and preserve!
5. Have fun! Don’t worry about the details – enjoy your spouse and enjoy your reception! This is the day you want to remember. So go and have fun!
