In Focus: Getting Picture-Perfect Photography For Your Wedding
During your wedding, you savor every moment. The look in each others’ eyes as you exchange vows. Your first dance. Cutting the cake. And as you begin your journey as newlyweds, the memories will continue to make you smile. The best way to relive the big day? Flip through your wedding photo album with your new husband! Your photography is quite possibly the most important keepsake from the occasion. We’ve compiled some tips, ideas and helpful hints to help you achieve flawless and fun photos you’ll always lovingly look back on.
1) Know what questions to ask.
Above all, you want to make sure that you feel a connection with your photographer. When you met, did you two communicate well? Do you feel comfortable having them capture all the special moments from your big day? Here are questions that will help you determine whether they would be a good fit for your style and vision. Keep in mind that if you’re not comfortable with them, your poses and expressions won’t be as natural, and it will be apparent in your photographs.
Details happening before the wedding: Check their portfolio and get to know their background (how long they’ve been in the business, how many weddings they’ve shot, etc). Find out what kind of equipment they use and make sure they’ll shoot in both color and black and white. See if you can give them a specific list of shots you want.
Details happening during the wedding: If your wedding takes longer than expected, will they stay and continue to take photos? Is there an extra charge? See if they’ve worked at your wedding venue before. Confirm that it’s ok for your guests to be snapping pictures while they’re taking photos.
Details happening after the wedding: Find out what packages they offers, and whether you can customize a package. Ask about their retouching services. Confirm when you will receive the proofs, and in what format. Also check whether they’ll give you the negatives or digital images and if there’s a fee for that.
2) Use the same photographer for your engagement & wedding photos.
If you met the photographer and feel like your personalities are a good match, book them for your engagement photo session. This is a great test run to ensure that your wedding photos will turn out just as you’d imagined. Plus, using the same photographer will ensure that your engagement and wedding photos will turn out consistent.
When it comes to location, you don’t have to travel for a beautiful backdrop – there are tons of possibilities right outside your door. In fact, you’ve probably passed a few of these locations in your daily routine without even noticing. Look around you and take a closer glance.
Ordinary elements become extraordinary backgrounds: The seemingly humdrum idea of an overgrown field or dead trees will come to life as your love brightens up and illuminates the landscape.
A small pop of color creates a big impression: A bright plant, rose, or piece of clothing provides a great contrast against a darker background.
Rough or industrial components can make a smooth setting: Although it may sound unconventional, bridges, rocks, industrial buildings or a dried riverbed make surprisingly elegant scenery.
Cool architecture is a naturally set stage: Think: unique doorways, high arches, pillars, funky staircases or interesting hallways. Pick the best photos from the session and create a custom guest book. Your guests will love penning a thoughtful message alongside gorgeous photos of you and your husband.
(Helpful hint: also use the engagement photos as test run for hair and makeup!)
3) Know what moments you want the photographer to capture during your wedding.
They’ll likely have a list of specific shots to capture before, during, and after the ceremony, but why not add your own ideas?
Give a photo shout-out to your parents.
Have your bridal party and groomsmen make a statement.
Make a toast from above.
Get glittery with the camera.
Spell it out.
Remember that your photography will be a visual representation of your wedding, so you want the images to reflect who you are. The right photographer will understand that and make you feel comfortable and confident!
