Choosing the location for your pre-ceremony photos probably doesn’t appear on many wedding planning task lists, but it can make the difference for these important photos. Here are some tips to help you prepare for your pre-ceremony photos.
1. Location is important.
You’ll love your pictures when they are taken in a room that is orderly, not cluttered, and has some natural light options. The light pouring in from a window is much more flattering that overhead fluorescents that can create shadows and tint skin with a yellow tone. Ideally, you and your fiance will get ready in locations near each other, making better use of the time you have for your photographer. Simply put, less travel time equates to more pictures. The similar backgrounds and architecture help to create a cohesive feel in yourwedding album too.
2. Schedule the photographer for the right time.
When you are creating a photography plan with your photographer, discuss the type of images you would like captured. It is recommended that your photographer arrive after your hair and makeup are completed (or nearly), but before you begin dressing. It is important to note that most delays occur during the hair and makeup preparation, so you’ll want to plan accordingly and build some time into your wedding day timeline. While your finishing touches are being applied, your photographer can capture your wedding day details like the dress, shoes, jewelry, and other items.
3. Have items to be photographed available.
Your wedding day is a flurry of activity, so planning in advance for the items you want photographed is essential. It’s common to capture photos of thebride’s bouquet, jewelry, shoes, dress, handkerchiefs, invitation, something old, new, borrowed and blue and other personal items. The groom’s cufflinks, pocket watch, boutonniere and attire is also commonly photographed. Any items you will give to your parents or bridal party attendant gifts are also photographed during this time. It’s easier for you and the photographer if your getting-ready items are available and not tucked away in bags or left at another location.
4. Let the subjects know they are needed.
When you have decided what images are to be captured during this time, let the subjects know. It is common to get pictures of the you and your attendants, each of you with your parents and other important family members (such as siblings) during your pre-ceremony time. It’s not uncommon for family members to begin visiting guests or attending to other issues. Letting them know in advance that they will be needed for a few photos, keeps everyone on the same page.
5. First Look.
More couples are choosing to meet in private before the ceremony, allowing for some beautiful and intimatephotography and videography to be captured. It can be a private event for the couple or shared with close friends and family. This time is a low pressure, yet highly emotional, way to spend a few special moments as a couple before walking down the aisle. If your wedding day timeline is tight a first look session can allow you to create amazing images, without sacrificing time with your guests. Most often, the groom is positioned so that his back is to his bride. Your photographer and videographer can then capture your approach to the groom and the moment when he gets the first look. Another twist is to have the bride positioned on one side of a door way and open the doors for the reveal. Some couples opt to keep the first look at the ceremony location by positioning the groom at the end of the aisle with his back to the bride as she approaches. If you wish to involve close family or friends, they can be seated in the pews for this approach.
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