Wedding Photography Guide
Photographing your wedding day’s most cherished moments because your story is worth remembering.
Let’s plan for a stress-free wedding
Whether I'm photographing your elopement, a small wedding, or providing full coverage for your big day, this guide is designed to help you prepare for your wedding day photos.
You've heard me say it again and again – I love to plan everything right down to the tiniest detail of your wedding day, so that we can easily go with the flow if needed. I love to spend all my time taking photos of your amazing day, not wasting a moment, so I can give you a ton of images of all those precious memories to keep always. To do this, I have explained below what I need from you at each stage of your day, so that I don’t miss a thing. I love to bring calm to your chaos and joy to your celebration, so you can just get swept up in all the magic and excitement. Each couple is unique, and so is their wedding, so use this guide to help plan your day & don't forget to tell me about any extra special surprises or details you have, so I don't miss them.
Groom Prep - Let’s Hear It For The Boys
To make sure I get you to the ceremony 30 minutes before the bride, I’ll be starting with your photos first. To make sure you boys can have fun and we can get through your photos quickly there’s a few things you can do before I get there so it all runs smoothly.
First things first, get all your ‘details’ out and ready, lay them out on a coffee table or somewhere with plenty of natural light. Clear away any clutter to make sure your details shine. What are these details, you ask? Well, they can be anything from your shoes, socks, ties, cufflinks, cologne, jacket, and of course, those all-important wedding rings & even any gifts for the groomsmen or from your beautiful bride.
Now, I'd love it if all you groomsmen & any family members could be dressed and good to go by the time I arrive. And guess what? That includes attaching those boutonnieres (those fancy buttonholes) to your jackets. Don't stress if you're not sure how to do it; I've got you covered.
The groom himself should be in his dress pants and dress shirt. It's all about looking dapper from the get-go for your ‘getting ready photos’.
Now, here's a hot tip for those summer weddings: Stay cool! Hang out in the air conditioning before heading off to the ceremony. We don't want any overheated grooms on our hands.
Bride Prep - The Countdown Begins!
The hours before your wedding will zoom by, so let's make the most of time we have. I kindly request that you ask your hair and makeup artist to wrap up about half an hour before I arrive. This will allow us maximum time to get some gorgeous prep photos.
Before the day starts, I suggest getting everything ready for me, that way you can sit back and enjoy a relaxing pampering time with your girls. So, hang your dress up in an open doorway or by a large window—it makes for a fabulous photo. And don't forget those pretty bridesmaid dresses; they deserve some time in the spotlight too. Oh, and use nice hangers with a swivel head, they make a difference! Lay out all your gorgeous details on a coffee table in a well-lit room. Think shoes, flowers, rings, stationery, jewellery, perfume, and any gifts for your bridesmaids of sweet gifts from your groom. It's all about those special touches.
If you've got cute robes or something similar, we'll kick things off with a fun photo with your bridesmaids (and mum, if she's there too). After that, it's time for the bridesmaids and the mother of the bride to get dressed while I focus on capturing those all-important detail shots.
It’s then time to feel like a princess while your bridal tribe gets you ready in your dress and accessories.
Laced-Up Dress Pro Tip - If your dress has a lace-up back, here's a little tip: Practice getting into it a week before the big day with the person who'll be helping you. That way, they'll be a pro when it counts!
The First Look - Unveiling the Magic
There are two options for your first look. One with your Dad and the other with your future spouse. If you've decided to have a heartwarming reveal with your father, here's the plan. Keep him in another room, and I'll come and get him about half an hour before you head off to the ceremony. It's a beautiful moment for the two of you.
Now, if you're planning a 'first look' with your soon-to-be-spouse, I've got that covered too. I'll arrange this precious moment just before the ceremony, away from your guests.
Remember, all the nitty-gritty details of your First Look will be neatly outlined in your personal wedding photography run sheet. Don’t stress, I've got everything sorted for you.
The Ceremony - Where Love Takes Center Stage
Grooms, here's your mission: Arrive at the ceremony venue at least half an hour before it all kicks off. This gives you time to greet your wonderful guests and chat with the celebrant. Oh, and don't forget the rings! Your trusty Best Man should have them in safekeeping.
As the ceremony begins, when your fabulous bridal party strolls down the aisle, remind them to keep a little space and time between each other & to take their time, it’s not a race! And you know what makes for perfect photos? Those smiles! So, tell them to look up and flash those pearly whites.
From here your celebrant will look after you and I will be there to capture the start of your new marriage life.
Now, for the grand exit! If you've got a bubble or petal guard of honour, designate a friend on each side to gather your guests during the signing of the register. They'll create an extended aisle for your unforgettable recessional.
Here's a sweet touch: Ask your bridal party to let you two lovebirds walk that aisle alone as husband and wife before they follow, then have your parents follow after them. It's your moment to shine!
Family & Friend Photos - Capturing Love and Gratitude
Your family & friend photos are not just heartwarming images but they become cherished memories and awesome thank-you gifts for your guests.
Before the big day, be sure to spread the word among your family and friends. Let them know that there will be a photo session right after the ceremony and that they should keep an ear out for their names. This will help make the process on the day go quickly.
To make this part of your wedding day smooth sailing, designate a trusty "photo-wrangler." It could be a friend, your MC, or even your celebrant. Hand them a copy of your photo list so they can work their magic, gathering everyone for those perfect shots while you soak up the congratulations.
If time allows, we can cap it all off with some "speed friend photos." It's a blast, and it ensures that everyone gets a chance to snap a pic with you.
Bridal Couple & Party Photos
Whether it's just the two of you or you're joined by your fantastic bridal party, this is your chance to steal some moments away from the crowd and create beautiful memories as a married couple. Consider packing a little picnic with drinks and nibbles because, let's face it, you'll be famished by this point!
During this session, I'll be snapping tons of fantastic shots. You'll get pictures of the girls and guys together and separately. Of course, I'll dedicate plenty of time to capturing the magic between you two.
So, get ready for some fun, laughter, and memorable moments with your bridal party.
Wedding Reception - Let the Celebration Begin!
Your wedding reception is where your party kicks off!
If your reception is at the same location as the ceremony, and there's a bit of time to spare, I’ll pop in to capture some exquisite detail photos before your awesome guests arrive. Who knows, you might even get a sneak peek at how fantastic it all looks!
Your entry into the reception is like the opening act for the night's festivities. It's your chance to set the vibe and tone for the celebration. So, take a moment to think about how you want your grand entrance to look and feel. It's all about creating that unforgettable atmosphere.
If you don't already have reception coverage in your photography package but want to ensure every moment is captured, you can add extra coverage for $550 per hour.
Wet Weather - Raindrops Can Be Beautiful Too!
Now, we all hope for clear skies on our big day, but it's smart to have a Plan B up your sleeve, just in case those rain clouds decide to make an appearance.
If the forecast whispers rain, bring along some trusty umbrellas. White or clear ones work best for those dreamy photos. Don't worry if you forget; I've got a few umbrellas stashed in my car, just in case.
Here's a secret: Some of the most enchanting photos happen on overcast and rainy days. The soft, diffused light can create a magical atmosphere that's uniquely beautiful. So, if raindrops fall on your special day, embrace it, and trust that I’ll capture some beautiful photos for you!
Wedding Photography Run Sheet - The Blueprint for Picture-Perfect Moments!
Your secret weapon for a smooth and picture-perfect day – the Wedding Photography Run Sheet.
First things first, give that run sheet a good once-over before the big day. It's like your wedding day playbook, and sharing it with your other wedding suppliers is a brilliant idea. After all, as they say, "Teamwork makes the dream work."
On your wedding day, I want you to do one thing above all else – relax and be in the moment. You've put your heart and soul into planning this perfect day, and I've poured over your questionnaire, learning all the intricate details. During my time with you, let me be your guide, ensuring that you're where you need to be when you need to be there. Your job? Enjoy every single minute.
With my 3C's philosophy, I'll capture it all – your celebration, your connections, and those cherished moments.
Wedding Day Emergency Kit - Your All-in-One Lifesaver!
Picture this: it's your big day, and everything's running smoothly. But suddenly, bam! Disaster strikes! That's where your Wedding Day Emergency Kit swoops in to save the day. It's like Mary Poppins' bag, filled with essentials that'll keep you and your crew on cloud nine.
Here are 10 of my must-haves:
1. Breath Mints: Keep those "I dos" minty fresh.
2. Bobby Pins: Hair out of place? These little heroes have your back.
3. Dental Floss: Say goodbye to awkward food-in-teeth moments.
4. Lipstick for the girls and Lip Balm for the boys: Pout-ready lips all day long.
5. Hollywood Tape: secret weapon for securing daring necklines, banishing pesky bra straps, and defying gravity in strapless tops.
6. Baby Wipes: Banish spills and stains with a flick of the wrist.
7. Super Glue: Magic for shoe and jewellery fixes
8. Tissues: For those happy tears and makeup touch-ups.
9. Mini Sewing Kit: Quick fixes for fashion emergencies.
10. Extra Earring Backs: Prevent earring emergencies
With your trusty kit in tow, you're ready for anything that comes your way, turning wedding day hiccups into memorable moments.