Choose your favourite style

Make sure you have chosen your wedding photographer by the style that you love. The photos you see on their main website will be the ‘style’ that you will receive. So if you’re after dark and moody, find a photographer that has a portfolio full of them. Don’t expect the photographer to create dark and moody if you see light and fresh. That’s obviously not their style so make sure you are happy with what you will receive from the start.

Run sheet

Ensure that your photographer is very aware of your run sheet and shot list requirements.  Family ones that is! Wedding photographers are experts and know what key moments and details can’t be missed, so trust them.

Be prepared

I always find that as soon as I arrive at the bride’s house the feeling in the air changes. The photographer is here – it’s really happening!! Before you know it you’re in the car and on your way to marry the man you love. I always advise my clients to have their details and dress hanging in an area that I can play with as soon as I arrive so that everyone can continue as they are and get ready for the final preparations.

Find the light

A photographer loves natural light. It is so much more flattering than a flash. So if you have the option, try and choose an area in your home or hotel where the light is flooding in. That way the photographer can capture you at your best!

Hello Bridesmaids

Make sure your bridesmaids are ready first. There’s nothing worse than a bridesmaid holding up your day. They need to be ready and looking glam so that they can help you get ready and be in the preparation photos.

Lock your dad away

Ha ha – Well not really, I just LOVE capturing the look on his face when he sees you for the first time. I usually get mum to help you get dressed and priceless images are also captured then.

Know your side

This is aimed at the girls. If you know you have a better side make sure you use it. If you don’t know, then test it out! Take a few photos of yourself or better yet, book an engagement shoot with your photographer so you can find out your favourite way to see yourself.

Be confident

This is your day to shine – don’t clam up or get embarrassed. You have your hair and makeup done you’re in your favourite EVER dress and looking your best- so live it,  love it and enjoy the feeling of being the centre of attention.

Don’t slouch

An easy one to forget but try and stand tall and keep your arms relaxed … not pressed up against your body because you then double the size of your arms! Also try not to stand flat footed, one foot slightly forward helps with the curves in your body.

Interact with your photographer

Go out of your way to get to know them. They are your best friend on the day and want to get the most out of you so that they can best capture your everlasting moments. They have seen more weddings than you probably will in a lifetime so trust them.

Too little or too much? Make it just right

Leave a decent amount of time for your location shoot. Not only is this the time for your photographer to be creative and capture beautiful memories but it is also an intimate time for you two to be together and celebrate your huge milestone. I would say an average of one hour is perfect for your location shoot. This gives you time to relax with your first champagne as husband and wife, enjoy time with your bridal party and capture photos of you all in a few different spots. If you have a location shoot for a few hours I can guarantee you will be tired, your mouth sore from smiling and you will end up totally disinterested … and the photos will show it.

Sunset times

Be aware of when the sun sets. The most flattering time is the 2 hour period before sunset. The light is soft and very forgiving. So if you can work in your location shoot at that time then fabulous! Don’t worry if you can’t though – it’s not a make or break.

Limit Travel

Travel = time pressure = stress = non-emotive photos. Enough said.

Keep your smile on your face

I see it a lot. The bride is stressed and nervous and she has a scowl on her face. Whilst those feelings can sometimes not be helped, it is important to remember that this is your wedding day. You are marrying the man of your dreams and that is the only thing that matters. So keep that smile on your face at all times because they look much better in photos than scowls!

Reception Add-Ons

This isn’t a necessity but it does spark up your reception photos. Bring some props for photos, a frame for people to pop their heads in or even hire a photo booth!

The main aim of the day

SMILE SMILE SMILE. Your wedding is a celebration of life. It deserves to be enjoyed and captured beautifully!

Images by Photography By Nadean

 

Ms Gingham says: Wow … some really great tips. I for one do not think about my arms looking bigger if they’re not relaxed … makes sense! That engagement shoot is looking like a must do!

Nadean says: I offer a personalised touch to my wedding photography. I love what I do and in turn the client reaps the benefits. I feel it is important to get to know my clients so that I bring their best qualities out in their photographs. I am actively involved in their wedding coordination – always willing to lend some advice and help wherever needed. My style is candid, natural and relaxed photography aiming to capture the true story and emotion of the day.

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