There are so many things that go into planning a wedding and for many couples; wedding photos are high on that agenda. Your wedding photos are what have to remember your big day for the rest of your life.
Getting great wedding photos, however, can be easier said than done. Hiring the wrong photographer can quickly turn into a disaster and going into the event with absolutely no preparation could end in disappointment.
How to Get the Best Wedding Photos
Don’t know how to get the best wedding photos on your big day? Select a professional photographer, consider doing a First Look, have a timeline of the events that’ll take place and more.
1. Select a Professional Photographer
In this day and age, everyone seems to have nice camera. Just because your friend takes amazing photos of her kids or dog, doesn’t mean they have the skill set that is necessary to photograph a once in a lifetime wedding event. Do your homework to make sure your are selecting the right professional photographer that goes beyond “liking” their portfolio. This includes checking references, looking at reviews, asking questions about back up equipment and signing contracts.
2. Consider doing a First Look
If you don’t want to miss cocktail hour and get right to the dance, then consider doing a First Look. Besides the reasons of it being a sweet and intimate moment to see each other before you say “I do” in front of an audience, it allows for a majority of the formal photos to be taken before the ceremony as well. This way your hair and make up look fresh for photos as well as allowing the time the photographer needs to capture those important formal shots.
3. Have a Timeline
If you do not have a wedding coordinator, most venues offer some sort of expert to assist you on your wedding day. Be sure to get the photographers input to create a Master Timeline. They will know how much time is needed to accomplish the list of photos that are most important to you.
4. Make a Shot List
Trying to herd lots of family members can be stressful. Making a list of groupings with people’s names will help cut down on time to gather them as well as making grandma get up and down too many times with a bad hip. Keep the list reasonable by considering what you plan to do with the photos afterwards. Perhaps one large group photo is all that you desire or just small grouping of “cousins and then add spouses/grandkids” will keep the time of formal photos limited. This also helps to avoid family tension. Weddings bring out all sorts of family dynamics so maybe you don’t want mom and stepmom in the same photo. Having a list of names for that particular grouping will keep everyone on track.
5. Body Language
There are a few tricks for showcasing your best side. For a flattering angle of your stomach, turn your torso a 45 degrees towards the photographer. This is an instant waistline slimmer. If you feel self-conscience of a double chin, hold your head up and touch your tongue to the roof of you mouth and pull your chin slightly forward. This pulls the muscle inward and tightens the neck area.
6. Trust your photographer’s instincts
The shot list of family groups is important for your photographer to know how much time formal photos should be allotted as well as to organize the group. Beyond that, try not to give the photographer too many Pinterest boards or specific photos that you want duplicated. Trust the photographer’s vision to capture what they feel looks best- which is why you hired them.
7. Relax and Enjoy Your Day
If you fell stressed out then it is likely to show in your expressions thought out the day. Try your best not to sweat the small details like a different photo location due to bad weather or a ring bearer melt down during family shots. Sometimes things can be photoshopped but ultimately relax and enjoy this extra special day.
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