Wedding Tips 2017

When you’re planning your own wedding, it’s probably the first you’ve ever had to plan and it feels like there’s a million things to consider. As a photographer that’s had the privilege of being part of lots of weddings, I’ve picked up a few tips that I’m happy to share with you. They seem small but it they help me do my best work for you.

Getting ready

Getting ready is such an awesome part of your wedding day. These hours before are spent with some of your closest friends, caught up in the chaos and excitement of getting made up. There are SO many incredible moments that happen.

Lighting during your whole day is important but don’t forget about it when you decide on where to get ready. I like to recommend avoiding the typical dark hotel suite when there are better options. Check out local Bed & Breakfasts or Airbnb listings for something well lit with LOTS of bright natural light from big windows and decorated in a style you love. Don’t forget, the same criteria apply to the groom’s prep location too!

When getting ready at a home, pick a room with the best/brightest natural light and try your best to declutter. No matter where you are try and make sure bags/laundry/snacks are stashed out of sight. If you forget in all the chaos, I always do a sweep through before I start photos. Your well lit and tidy getting ready location will also be a big bonus for your hair and make-up teams, so it’s a double win.

 

 

First Look

This day is about you and your partner, so why not get all the alone time with them as you can? First Look is a new tradition that can add so much to your day. Seeing each other for the first time without an audience means you can react without reservation and it’s an excellent chance to sooth your nerves.

It can also improve the flow of the day when you don’t have to hide from each other. Formal family and bridal party photos can take place before the ceremony, so you can enjoy cocktail hour and I can spend time getting candid shots of your happy guests.

 

Outdoor Ceremonies

Outdoor ceremonies are my favourite. You can’t beat a beautiful natural scene, the light and freedom for me to move around covering the most angles. However, since it’s not rarely possible to get married at sunset there are a few things to keep in mind.

Time of day or shade are crucial. When the sun is at it’s highest, you will be lit from above and it’s casts very dark shadows below your eyes, nose and mouth. This is when shade very important. When the sun is lower in the sky in the late afternoon, aim to place the sun behind your officiant. This way, you will be backlit and you won’t be squinting.

If you will be shaded, be mindful of spotty light coming through leaves of trees. It could cast bright patches of light on your faces.

Ceremonies closer to sunset are always gorgeous, just remember to leave enough space in your timeline for group photos and your couples portraits.

 

Unplugged

An unplugged ceremony is simply asking your guests not to take photos. This lets your guests be undistracted by their cameras/iphones, so they focus on the two of you exchanging vows. It’s also great for me! It allows me to move more freely without competing for good angles with guests.  

If you don’t want to ask guests to keep their phones and cameras stashed, it’s a good idea to ask them to stay in their seats while taking photos.

When you send out your invitations, you can let people know it’s an unplugged wedding and have your officiant remind your guests before starting the ceremony. 

 

Couples and Bridal Party portraits 

Couples portraits will happen after your ceremony and family/group photos. It’s an opportunity to relax and take in the fact that you just got married! We’ll take a little walk to the places you’ve picked and spots I’ve scouted. If you want a different location where you’d like to have your portraits done that require driving, it’s best to let me know ahead of time. 

 

Formal Group Photos

I like to get as many immediate family photos done as possible before the ceremony, that way it’s much less chaotic and time consuming locating people during cocktail hour.

Before the wedding I will need a group portrait shot list from you. It’s always best to keep the list as short as possible. Smiling and posing with lots of different groups will eat up a lot of your time and gets overwhelming for everyone.

For your group photos post-ceremony with extended family and friends, I recommend designating a “people fetcher” or two to wrangle up family. This is so group photos can happen as fast as possible. One for each side of the family or a friend that knows everyone is great.

 

Reception

Lighting at receptions can be the trickiest part for photographers like me who like to get the most of ambient light. Adding a little bit of nice lighting goes a long way though. Strings of bistro lights and plentiful candles on your table create ample light and a beautiful atmosphere.

When it comes time to hit the dance floor, fun and colourful lights are totally fun for party time. However, they do kill the mood for special or romantic dances like your first. Ask your DJ to stick to a spotlight the important ones.