Image by Bill McChesney via Flickr
Having spectacular photographs of your wedding day will bring years of pleasure and happy memories. There are a number of things you can do to make sure the photos turn out top notch but one key is to make sure the photographers brief is made as easy as possible to fulfil. The following tips will help ensure your photographer is able to do their best possible work on your special day.
- Hire a Professional
Photographs last a lifetime and some moments cannot be captured again, so hire the very best photographer you can afford. You’ll know that you’re working with one of the best Melbourne wedding photographers or any professional photographers in your area as they can quickly understand what is important to focus on, will have all their gear at the ready and will have honed instincts for when the perfect shot is about to appear. Do not try and skimp by using a bumbling amateur who may record only substandard images of your dream day.
- Provide a Clear Brief
Meet with your photographer prior to the wedding and discuss what you want artistically and listen with an open mind to the suggestions your photographer makes. View portfolios and take note of the poses, location, lighting and styles of the images that really stand out for you. Be very clear on your expectations and the shots that will be the most important to you. Sotiria and Yiannis album design have a tonne of inspiring examples. Let the photographer see your character and personality so they can begin to muse over the possibilities that would capture exactly what you want.
Weddings are filled with all kinds of traditions and special moments but not all of them may be of special significance to you. Your photographer will have the utmost gratitude if you provide clear directions of what to do or not to do.
- Don’t Crowd the Photographer Out
More and more frequently key shots are being ruined by overenthusiastic guests leaning into the aisle and taking their own photographs with smartphones and tablets. While the guests may be well-meaning, it can totally change the dynamic of the bride walking down the aisle and it makes for a less than ideal shot. It’s the role of the professional photographer, who you’ve paid well, to ensure your photographs are the absolute best possible. They shouldn’t have to fight to be positioned to take great photos. Some couples make their ‘no private photography during the ceremony’ wishes known on the invitation, or by posting signs outside the location of the proceedings.
- Communicate With the Photographer
Let the photographer know on the day if you are feeling stressed, uncomfortable, or needing specific guidance and direction. If you prefer natural, candid shots the photographer may take some photographs from a distance. If you are feeling awkward or uncertain about anything, simply speak up. All that occurs will be reflected on your face and alerting the photographer to any discomfort will help them to better work with you. If possible, have a rehearsal shoot to feel comfortable with the photographer and get to know them a little before the wedding. This way it won’t feel like you are putting on a command performance for a director, but interacting with someone more familiar and friendly.
- Allow Ample Time
Be sure to book more time than you anticipate needing when arranging the photo shoot on the day. By knowing exactly how much time they have to work with, the photographer can pre-plan locations, travel time, and any necessary props and poses.
If there is a sense of being rushed or stressed about a lack of time it will be evident on your faces and also show up in the photographs.
- The Golden Hour
If possible, be sure to schedule time for photographs during what photographers refer to as the ‘Golden Hour’, which is the last hour of daylight before sunset. The unique quality of light at this time is particularly delightful and adds a natural radiance to those being photographed that is impossible to replicate with artificial lighting.
Your wedding photographer will be eternally grateful when you work with them to ensure everything flows smoothly on the day. Your reward will be in receiving the very best images to warm your wedded hearts for a lifetime.
