Wedding Tips

Suggestions For Great Photos

You have spent much time, energy, and money in preparing for this very special day. You want it to go well.

The photographic aspect of your wedding day can be the most successful when you help by following these basic tips which we've learned through experience:

Pad the schedule. Why? Because, it takes longer for a group of people to get ready than just one. And, delays at the hairdresser or unexpected visits from relatives, for example, can delay the photo session and arrival at the reception. So, plan to be at the church earlier than necessary and ready to start photos earlier than scheduled. And, require the wedding party and families to be present and ready for photos at least 15 minutes prior to the scheduled photo start time.

Pre-Ceremony Formals. Our preference, but your choice. In our area, many still think that seeing the groom prior to the wedding is bad luck. This is a 13th century superstition. Actually the first time you see each other should be romantic and special not with stage fright as you walk down the aisle. Please trust us, this will be the only time you will spend alone all day. The advantages are enormous. Taking the photographs before the ceremony allows time for creativity. It also keeps you fresh for the photographs rather than after you have cried, people have hugged you, smeared your makeup and pulled your veil. Second, it relieves you of a great deal of pressure. Stage fright and the stress of hurrying fueled by the dreaded sentence ”the guests are waiting,” is unnerving. With photographs taken before the ceremony, you gracefully exit and go directly to the reception where you can enjoy your wedding guests. In all of our weddings, we have never had a bride sorry that she had her formal photographs taken before the ceremony.

Dress the men. Designate a lady to ensure that all men have boutonnieres pinned on 15 minutes prior to the photo start time.

Emergency supplies.

	Clear fingernail polish (for runs in stockings)
	Scissors
	Needle and thread
	Safety pins
	Iron

Open the church building. Make sure that the building is unlocked and all sanctuary lights are turned on at least 30 minutes prior to photos. The photographer will arrive about 30 minutes early to get set up. For comfort, ensure that the air conditioning is running an hour ahead of time.

Isle runner. For the best compositions at the alter, it is suggested that the isle runner be completely removed both before and after the ceremony. This can be easily managed by designating a person to set out the runner at about 20 minutes prior to the ceremony start time instead of during the decorating session.

Other cameras. Ask videographers and shooting relatives to remain outside of the shooting area. This way, they and their tripods will not inadvertently appear in your photos.

Cake table. Position the cake table in front of a plain or decorated wall. Avoid trash cans, emergency exit signs, restrooms, etc. in and near the background. Prepare for the ceremonial cutting in advance by pre-positioning these items:

	1 plate
	2 napkins (maybe even a wet wash cloth!)
	cutting and serving knives
	drinks to wash down anything that gets stuck

Young children. Kids in weddings are wonderful! By all means, include them. As young ones tire easily, they may not be 'ready' at certain times for pictures. That's OK. Let them rest. They don't have to be in every group photo. We'll have several opportunities through the day to work with them. A smiling child in one photo is better than a grumpy one in every photo!

Have fun. Despite the best plans, unexpected things will happen. A lost cumber bun, late father, crying flower girl - you name it. Don't let these things cause you stress and diminish the joy of your day. Embrace them and laugh! In fact, you and your guests will long remember the funny, unexpected things that happened above all others and will cherish them always.

Suggestions For Great Photos

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