Want really really really great wedding photos? The type of wedding photos that make you swoon for years after your wedding? A’ight, let’s get down to it:
1. HIRE A WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER WHOSE PORTFOLIO YOU LOVE
Really look at their photos, if you received photos with that style and vibe would you be happy? Would you be head-over-heals in love and wanting to stare at them every second of every day? That’s how it should feel when you get them back, so make sure that you’re not settling and that you’re hiring a photographer whose ability you trust. Their portfolio should have photos from real weddings – they need to be able to show that they can produce wedding photos that are of quality.
2. CONSIDER YOUR GETTING READY LOCATION
I’ll say it right now – a good photographer can make any situation work, really. But does it help to have a location with good lighting and no crazy patterns on the wall? You bet. This goes for your ceremony space, too!
3. CONSIDER HAVING A COORDINATOR
Yooo I get it, having a coordinator is expensive – it’s often out of budget for many people. If the typical professional rate is out of reach for you, consider hiring a helper for the day – someone you aren’t especially close to so that them being present and enjoying the day isn’t a concern. This person needs to be dependable and be able to “herd”, for lack of a better word. Pay them (even if it’s less than you would a professional) so they take it seriously and understand that this is a job. This is especially helpful when doing family formals (where does Aunt Carol keep wandering off to with that glass of wine in her hand?!)
4. PUT SOMEONE IN CHARGE OF DETAIL ITEMS
I typically start my day out my photographing the details – the invitations, jewelery, shoes, wedding bands, belts, cuff links, etc. Have someone you trust be responsible for these items to make sure they get to the photographer in an organized fashion. It’ll save on time and stress.
5. WAIT TO GET READY UNTIL THE PHOTOGRAPHER ARRIVES
This is a shout out for all the guys out there – avoid getting fully ready until the photographer gets there for getting ready shots (if they’re providing that coverage). I promise you’ll look back on these photos and be so happy you did (although I get it – it’s just so exciting!!!)
6. DON’T GET A SPRAY TAN
I pinky promise you’ll look orange – it’ll super stand out in photos when everyone else is colored normally.
7. BE REALISTIC WITH TIMING
As a photographer, I usually work with my clients to make sure we have a timeline that fits the coverage they’ve hired me for and what they really want documented. Your photographer knows how long things typically take (like formals based on the amount of people partaking). Talk to your photographer about this and don’t try to squeeze too much in. Your photos will thank you.
Have any questions? Concerns? Wanna chat wedding deets? Let’s talk.
