Your wedding photos are an incredibly important aspect of your big day. They preserve the memory and magic. They’re what your kids and grandkids are going to see and use to get an idea of what your wedding was like.
All in all, they’re an integral aspect of how you remember your wedding. Therefore, it’s important not to just strive for beautiful wedding pics. You also want photos that capture the full essence and feel of your wedding day.
Here’s how: With a little forethought and intention, getting the best wedding pictures possible is pretty easy. You just have to be specific about what you’re looking for.
Before Booking Your Photographer
Prior to booking your photographer, do a little research about the type of wedding photos you want.
Do you want moody and artsy?
Do you want candid shots?
Whimsical?
Would you like a variety of images?
Familiarize yourself with the different types and styles of wedding photos, and start to gather inspo you can use to show prospective photographers exactly what you’re looking for.
Searching for a Photographer
Once you have examples of what you want, it’s time to look for photographers.
Be sure to check out their websites or ask for examples of their work.
Check out the reviews from people who used them, and see if there are any underlying themes.
Let them know what you’re looking for, and share your examples. Be as specific as possible. If you’re looking to create evocative black and white shots of you and the groom with really cool lighting, make sure they have the equipment and the knowledge to bring your vision to life—as well as a clear understanding of what your vision is.
If at all possible, try to meet in person or at the very least on a Zoom call. It’s crucial you find someone you’re comfortable around, and meeting them and seeing how you feel in their presence is the best way to ascertain that.
Hiring them to shoot your engagement photos is an excellent way to get accustomed to them, so that when your big day rolls around you’ll be more comfortable and relaxed.
Planning For Your Wedding Photos
Throughout the wedding planning process, keep an eye out for the types of shots you want on your big day.
Create a Pinterest board of your discoveries, and learn the names of the different styles of wedding photos you would like, and be sure your photographer knows what they are.
Collaborate with both the photographer and your wedding planner, if you have one, to schedule time to get the shots on the wedding day. If you want a golden hour sunset pic that needs to be scheduled in accordance with the sunset.
You’ll need to figure out where you want the photos taken as well. Do a venue walk-through to scout out cool spots for wedding pics. If your photographer is familiar with the venue, they may have some ideas of their own.
Be clear on what photos you want: group shots with everyone, pictures of you looking absolutely stunning in your gown flanked by your bridesmaids, gorgeous in their Bella Bridesmaids dresses, solo shots, pics of you and your new spouse…
Wedding Day Photo Prep
For anything you want commemorated on your big day like getting ready for example, be mindful of lighting and clutter. Opt for natural light whenever possible.
Based on the communication you’ve had with your photographer, they should have an idea of what you’re looking for.
Follow their instructions, and try to keep the space free of too much clutter.
Additionally, the ceremony and reception should be set up in a way where the photographer can easily capture the incredible moments without getting in the way.
Whatever you do, don’t forget the importance of lighting! Make sure there’s sufficient lighting for all the key moments you want to commemorate.
Ceremony and Reception Pictures
The best shots are the result of your photographer taking your ideas and applying their own creativity. Each moment should be captured aesthetically and authentically.
Ensure your photographer incorporates all the unique elements that make your wedding yours.
During the candid moments, do your best to be fully in the moment—pretend the photographer isn’t there.
Conclusion:
The goal is to capture genuine emotion, love, and connection.
The more prepared you are, the more likely you are to get exactly what you’re looking for.
And you’ll be happy to know that even though planning is essential, you’ll probably also end up with some incredibly candid unplanned moments that perfectly encapsulate the unique story of your celebration. Cheers to that!
