Memories don’t exist without moments. And the beauty of photography is that it captures an exact moment in time.
As a wedding and portrait photographer in North Carolina, I’ve had the honor of photographing over 400 weddings. Throughout each of them, I’ve been able to anticipate and capture the must-have moments.
To do this, I take time to learn what moments and photos are most important to my couples. Because I know that this is a special, once-in-a-lifetime event that you’ll want to look back on years from now. And feel the magic all over again.
Below, I’ve highlighted five ways we can work together to ensure you get the details and wedding-day moments that matter the most.
1. Think About Your Must-Haves
When you think about what photos matter most, I recommend going beyond what you feel you “have” to get, just because it’s what everyone else is doing.
For example, the getting ready photos, having makeup applied, etc. I feel you only need a few really great pictures of that part of the day.
Also, the extended family group photos. These can be overwhelming because there seem to be a limitless amount of group combinations. So we try to only do immediate family photos to not overwhelm the couple and capture extended family and other groupings at the reception when we can.
When you start thinking about which must-have moments you’d like photographed, consider the sentimental details, the details that tell your story, the moments that show who you are as a couple. Moments where friends and family are brought together to celebrate. Traditional family photos and couple’s portraits are essential too. And don’t forget about the images that show off your personality!
2. Communicate
Communication is key when it comes to the details. That’s why I always communicate with my couples ahead of time about what matters most to them. I set up a phone call, have an online meeting, or meet in-person at least one month before the wedding to discuss the details and moments you envision for your day. It also gives us a chance to get to know one another as we chat about your wedding plans.
3. Focus on Timeline
Creating a well-planned timeline ensures that we can capture all the details and moments that matter to you, and makes it easier for you to enjoy your day. You won’t be worrying about what happens next, where everyone needs to be, or stressing over all the moving parts that come with timing challenges.
Don’t worry if you have no idea where to start or get stuck in the middle of trying to create a photo timeline. I’m happy to sit down with you, or your planner, and go over all the bits and pieces so that we have a solid plan in place.
And speaking of plans…
4. Plan Ahead
The foundation of a wonderful experience starts with kindness, professionalism, organization, and reliability. I pride myself (and my business) on these elements and like to be prepared in any way that is helpful to you and your team of vendors.
A big part of this is planning ahead so that everything runs as smoothly as possible. This means doing things like working on your wedding-day timeline, discussing your vision, setting up an engagement photo session (it’s great practice for the big day!), touring the venue, and letting you know what details to have prepared for me to photograph when I arrive on the wedding day.
5. Build a Team of Professionals
I’m a community kind of person. I believe that having a team of professionals supporting, encouraging, and helping you from start to finish makes the whole wedding experience ten times better.
I always recommend hiring a gifted group of people (planner, photographer, florist, etc.) who can work together as a team to create a timeline that allows for details and moments to be captured in a relaxed manner.
With the right professional support, you can relax knowing you don’t have to worry about anything going wrong, because all of your vendors are working harmoniously together!
If you want a wedding photographer that goes above and beyond standard photography services, I encourage you to say hello!
add a comment
+ COMMENTS