Every bride and groom wants stunning wedding photos, but for many couples, their wedding day is their first time in front of a professional photographer. Here are five tips and tricks from a wedding photographer on how to make your photos flawless!
1. Planning ahead reduces day-of stress
If you feel stressed, you’ll look stressed. Avoid feeling rushed by planning ahead with a photo timeline. Work with your photographer to plan how much time you’ll need for each type of photos – getting ready, wedding party, couple portraits and family shots. Consider doing as many photos as you can before the ceremony, while your hair and makeup is freshly done. This also helps avoid a lull between the vows and the reception, and your guests will appreciate it.
2. Appoint a family wrangler
It’s not uncommon to have parents who are divorced and remarried, or a couple of family members who just don’t get along. Let your photographer know any potential family tension, but also appoint a person who knows both the bride and groom to be in charge of gathering family for portraits. This person can assist the photographer by pointing out who is who, and avoiding any awkward situations.
3. Get close
Snuggle in closer to your groom than you might normally. A gap between the couple may not feel huge, but it’s amplified in photos and can make you look distant. Getting closer can improve getting ready shots, as well. Surround yourself with the wedding party while you put on final details for candid shots that capture the excitement of the day.
4. Watch the details
Tiny details can change the whole feeling of a photograph. For example, if you’re sipping bottled water while you’re getting ready, you’re going to have bottled water in every photo. Instead, opt for a nice glass to stay hydrated. You may also consider having an “unplugged” ceremony, where guests are asked to put their phones away. This means your professional wedding photographer won’t have Uncle Bob and his iPhone in the shot of you walking down the aisle.
5. Pack a touch-up kit
Wedding days are an emotional marathon. You’ll look stunning right after hair and makeup, but after a million hugs and likely a few tears, you may be a little deflated. That’s normal! To help keep it together, pack a small bag with a few essentials. Bring lipstick to reapply after all that kissing in your couples portraits. Eye shadow can be reapplied after the ceremony to give you a fresh face for the reception. Carry extra hairpins in case you dance so hard your updo starts to fall, and grab some blotting paper to control shine throughout the day.
The best tip of all is to give yourself permission to enjoy the whole day. Don’t focus on trying to make everything perfect, but instead be present and know that it will all work out.
