If you are a bride or groom getting ready for your big day, here are a few prep materials you can do to make the day run even smoother for you and your Wedding Photographer...
Connect your photographer with your wedding coordinator. Most likely your Wedding Planner or Photographer have already requested this of you, but make sure they have each other's contact information so they can review your Wedding Timeline prior to your day. It is also critical to have them in contact with each other so they can solve any day of decisions without you having to be involved.
Compile your "Details" box. Before your photographer arrives to wherever you are getting ready, make sure you throw all your "details" in a box so that your photographer doesn't have to ask you where everything is (again, you should be enjoying your day not running around!). Some details to include: flower bouquet, shoes, wedding earrings/jewelry, rings, wedding invite, wedding RSVP card, wedding envelope, and any other sentimental items.
Decide whether you want to do a "First Look" or not. If you do not want to do a "First Look", this will change the order in which your photographer will take your photos during your wedding day. You should definitely do whatever you want and not let anyone decide for you-- but-- if you don't feel strongly, a First Look allows you to get more photos prior to your wedding even starting. With a First Look, you can schedule your couple, family, and bridal party photos all before the ceremony.
Make sure you have enough photography coverage hours in your selected package if you want dance floor photos. If your wedding day schedule is delayed that pushes back events and sometimes means your dance floor won't open at the time you once thought. Make sure that if your heart is set on dancing photos that you hired your photographer to cover enough hours during the day.
Decide whether you want golden hour photos or not. Make sure your photographer knows if you want golden hour couple photos or not. Some couples don't want to be pulled from the party while others are okay sneaking away for a few minutes to capture some photos with the most beautiful lighting. Just make sure your photographer knows either way so you don't miss anything that you don't want to! I know I'm biased as the photographer, but I HIGHLY recommend doing the golden hour photos- they are always my favorite shots!
Make a family photo shot list. Most photographers don't prefer a "shot list" for the day, but it is really helpful to give a list to your photographer ahead of time so that they can ensure they are getting all of the family members you want in your photos. For example, you'll want MOB/Bride but maybe you also want MOB/Bride/Groom. Make sure this is listed out so you aren't directing people day of.
Nancy Brye Photography is a wedding, family, and newborn photographer based in Bend, Oregon.
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