You have planned out every intricate detail of your wedding. You spent hours making the invitations and have made sure your color scheme looks awesome. The wedding photographer is there to capture pictures from the day that will invoke memories and reflections years later. Photographers will do the best they can to create great shots that make it hard to choose from. Did you know there are steps, actions, and things you can do to set the photographer up for success?
This article will provide a guide to making sure your photographer has their needs met.
Step 1. Add Photographers to the Guest List
In the frenzy of deciding who to add to the reference list and creating the actual invitations that will be sent out, you could actually forget to add the photographers to the guest list. By adding them to the list, they can get a copy of the wedding invitation and create those photos so they do not have to be done on the day of the wedding. This also guarantees that the photographers will get a meal and have the energy to work!
Step 2. Communicate the Schedule
You never know when the perfect photo opportunity may arise. It could be when you are riding in the car or when the flower girl tries to run away. By letting the photographer know your schedule, they will be able to make sure they are with you whenever possible. Sharing your schedule also gives the photographer insight as to if your schedule is realistic. They might suggest adding more time to different parts of the wedding so that no one is rushed or stressed.
Step 3. Think About the Decorations
Props and accessories play a pivotal role in the setting and ambiance of your wedding. This easily translates to the photos. Using uplighting as a side note or light floaters and candles can add a whole other dimension to the pictures. The only warning is to not use green lighting.
Step 4. Take Family Photos
There are two times where it generally works to take family photos. These are right before or right after the ceremony. If you decide to do a first look session where photographs are taken before the wedding, then the family photos can be done then. Otherwise, right after the ceremony is the best time to take pictures before the reception begins.
Step 5. Check the Photography Policies at Venues
Different venues using for ceremonies and receptions might have their own photography policies. Try to find these out or let your photographer know the venues so they will be aware of any limitations or areas that are off-limits to photography.
Step 6. Take Advantage of Time of Day
The best natural lighting occurs in the early morning hours and a couple of hours before sunset. If possible, you should try to set aside time for bride and groom pictures during this time. The photographer can take advantage of the best lighting at that time.
A photographer is going to be the only vendor that is there for the entirety of your wedding day. The memories of the event will fade away but physical photographs will last forever. By considering their needs, you are setting them up to capture the best possible pictures and give you a treasured gift.
