Sunday 13 December 2009

15 Top Tips for Brides (and Grooms of course!)

Here are some of my top tips for getting the best out of your wedding photography.

1. Give some thought to who you really want on the group shots. Remember that a long list of group shots can take a long time and you might want to be doing other things instead of posing! Try to choose your immediate family only, the wedding party and maybe a big group shot of everyone. During the day I always try to capture every guest in a more candid style.

2. If you are having group shots at the church, make sure your guests know this and don’t leave for the pub or reception venue! (This is VERY common!)

3. I like to take the Bride and Groom away for some ‘alone time’ after the group shots. This is a special time as it allows you to relax and spend some very romantic time together as husband and wife for the first time. This maybe something simple like sneaking off around the corner or even driving to a location that is special to you both. Please factor at least 45 mins to your day for this session.

4. Keep reapplying your make up during the day to look your best in your photos!

5. During bridal preparations try to limit the number of people in your room to keep things as stress free as possible and have everything arranged ready so you are not looking for items at the last minute. Having all your bits and pieces handy also helps me get some great detail shots.

6. If you would like some bridal portraits then plan to be ready an hour before you are due to leave. This is a lovely time for some photos with your Mum or other special ladies who are helping you get ready.

7. Assign someone to keep your room tidy. When I am shooting the bride getting ready a nice tidy room is so much better. Who wants mess on their wedding photos? Also if you are getting ready in the Bridal Suite it’s a good idea to make sure the venue tidy it ready for your return later.

8. Eat during the morning and have plenty to drink (but not too much champagne!). It’s easy to forget to eat and drink during the excitement in the morning but it’s not uncommon for Brides to feel light headed during the service and, although it makes for a great photo, we don’t want you flaking out!

9. Don’t forget to tell me if there are any special items that you would like me to capture. Are you wearing something that has a family connection? Has your husband to be sent you a gift? Small details make great album images and also great memories for you.

10. Don’t be afraid of being yourself and showing emotion during the speeches or ceremony. Just let the laughter and tears flow freely. I might also be in tears but I will try my best to capture it all for you! This is the same on the dance floor – get that dress swishing about and really go for it - you will love those photos!

11. During your ceremony and first dance try to really look into each others eyes and let me capture the sparks!

12. Try to prepare your guests and tell them not to hide from the camera. I am there to document your day and you don’t want lots of photos of people covering their faces or hiding behind someone else!

13. During the speeches, I might remove tall napkins, table numbers or anything else that obstructs my view. I really want to take the best photos I can and this sometimes requires some slight adjustments.

14. It’s supposed to be lucky if it rains on your wedding day but it can play havoc with plans for photos! So together we will plan a backup if it should rain so all eventualities are covered but don’t forget photos with brollies look really cool!

15. Tell your ushers and bridesmaids beforehand that they will probably be called upon to help arrange some group shots….and find people!

2 comments:

sharon mallinson said...

Great tips there Karen - thank you!

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