Preparations Before the Wedding Day
Engagement Shoot
Engagement photos are a great opportunity to get to know your photographer and feel comfortable in front of the camera. These photos can also be used for wedding invitations and other printed materials.
Practical Tips for Couples
Keep Things Organized and Calm
Appoint someone to be responsible for keeping track of your personal belongings, like mobile phones, keys, and other valuables during the photo session.
Have a friend or family member assist the photographer and help with adjusting the bride’s dress and hairstyle as needed.
Prepare the Groom Too
It’s not just the bride who needs careful preparation. The groom’s hands will also be in focus, so ensure his nails are well-groomed and clean.
During the Ceremony
Look at Each Other, Not the Floor
During the ceremony, look into each other’s eyes rather than at the floor. This creates more natural and emotional photos. The photographer cannot interrupt the ceremony to give posing advice, so keep this tip in mind.
Capture Candid Moments
Enjoy the moment and let your emotions flow. The best photos are often the most natural and spontaneous ones.
After the Ceremony: During the Reception
Plan Group Photos
After the ceremony, it’s helpful to have a list of the group photos you want to take. This ensures no important individuals or combinations are missed.
Appoint someone to gather people for group photos, saving time and making the process smoother.
Practical Tips for Wedding Day
Weather Preparations
If the ceremony is outdoors, have transparent umbrellas ready for the couple and regular umbrellas for guests. If the ceremony is on grass or uneven terrain, inform guests in advance so they can bring spare shoes.
Host Duties at the Wedding
Appoint a host or toastmaster, perhaps one of your guests, to keep track of the schedule and entertain guests while you’re busy with photography.
Guest Entertainment
Plan activities or entertainment for guests while you’re being photographed. This could include a drink station, a photo booth, or small games.
If there are children at the wedding, consider organizing activities for them. Bubbles are always popular and look fantastic in photos.
Congratulations and Hugs
After the ceremony, encourage guests to congratulate you and not be shy about hugging. Inform your closest guests about this in advance to avoid awkward moments where guests hesitate to approach and congratulate you directly after the ceremony.
Take Care of the Photographer and Staff
Don’t forget to give regular breaks and ensure food and drink are provided for the photographer and other staff at the wedding.
Planning the Wedding Evening
Consider the Program
Plan the evening so that the photographer has the opportunity to capture the most interesting moments. For example:
- Start the celebration with the first dance
- Move on to dinner.
- Mix the program with dancing, music, and breaks for dinner.
- Have short speeches right after the cake cutting.
By following this checklist and preparing thoroughly, you can ensure that your wedding day is documented in the best possible way. These memories will be cherished forever!