Create Your Story
How to plan for perfect wedding photos
You’ve heard it from countless married couples: your wedding day will fly by, enjoy every moment, try to remember everything! But from getting ready, to the ceremony, to the reception, we know that for many couples, the day becomes a blur. That’s why professional photography is so important. You can take steps to prepare your photographer before the big day and make sure all the best moments are captured in pictures.
Discuss timing and details. Most photographers offer packages for your wedding day, along with additions depending of what you are looking for. When considering photographers, talk with them about the time frame of your wedding and what elements you want to make sure are captured. If photos of both you and your fiancé getting ready with your bridesmaids and groomsman are really important to you, make that known from the start. These little details will help a photographer suggest his or her hours for the day and additional staff.
Ask about a second photographer. Having another shooter on hand to help capture all the important moments can make all the difference in your final photos. Many photographers will include this in part of their package, but be sure to ask to make sure you are on the same page. As an added bonus, a second shooter allows you to see signature moments, like your first kiss, from multiple angles in your photos.
Look at portfolios. This may seem like a no-brainer, but you want to make sure your chosen photographer’s style compliments you and your fiancé’s. Even after you’ve hired someone, it can be helpful to look through their portfolio with them and point out photos that you really love. Not only will it make your photographer feel great to know you love their work, but it can give them an idea of the type of photos you are looking for.
Plan an engagement shoot. Again, some photographers will include this in their package, but if not, ask about setting a date for you and your fiancé to have photos taken well before your wedding day. Not only do many couples end up using this photography for Save the Date cards, but having a day to get to know and work with your photographer will help you both feel much more natural on the big day.
Get creative! There’s no rule that says your engagement or wedding photos have to be filled with traditional poses. Before you get in front of the camera, talk with your fiancé about different ways to incorporate your favorite things into your photo shoots. Are you both baseball fans? Throw on your rival jerseys and take some cute photos playing catch. Big fans of a certain movie or TV show? Recreate a movie poster or DVD cover! You will end up with fun, natural photos that carry extra meaning for you.
Make a list of can’t-miss shots. If you are buying matching pattered socks for all the groomsmen to wear and are dying for a cute picture of them, make sure your photographer knows! Sending a list of the shots you particularly want to see, along with sample photos if you have them, will give your photographer a heads up and help them get to know your style.
Make sure to get immediate family photos. As important as it is to include everyone in your group photos, make sure your photographer reserves a few photos for just your immediate family. These photos will stand the test of time, even if your brother and his girlfriend break up a month after your wedding.
We know just how important it is to hire a photographer you love, which is why we keep a list of some photographers our Lehigh Valley brides have worked with and loved at their weddings. If you are looking for recommendations, ask our event center staff! We are happy to share some suggestions and help you find your dream photographer.