When you are planning your wedding day, it's normal to feel overwhelmed by the thought of so many things to do and a million things that could go wrong. However, we want you to know that from my experience as a professional wedding photographer, it's important to stay calm and relaxed during this time. There is nothing worse than having the bride stress out about something not going according to plan when on her special day! So how can we make sure that everything goes smoothly on our big day? Here are 5 tips for making sure that your special day runs as smoothly as possible:
It's good to have an idea of the photographs that you would like to capture if possible.
If possible, it's good to have an idea of the photographs that you would like to capture. This will make it easier when your photographer is taking pictures and they can be directed on what they should look out for. It also means that if there are any photos that aren't necessary, they'll be more likely to cut them out. If you don't have a list prepared, don't worry! Most photographers will take plenty of shots at the ceremony and reception anyway so this may not be necessary for everyone (but do make sure to discuss with your photographer beforehand).
I always ask my couples to schedule a trial run with their hair and makeup stylists before the wedding day so that they can feel totally confident with the looks they've chosen for their big day.
I always ask my couples to schedule a trial run with their hair and makeup stylists before the wedding day so that they can feel totally confident with the looks they've chosen for their big day. This is especially important if you're going for something more dramatic—it's essential to make sure your stylist understands exactly what you want before she starts applying products or getting professional tools involved. But even if you're just looking for something simple like a blowout, it's crucial that your stylist knows how long it will take, because even though we try our best not to cut things short on Wednesdays at 5:00 p.m., sometimes things happen! And as much as we'd love everyone else's weddings to go off without a hitch, sometimes there are bumps in planning along the way (like running out of time).
The best part about having this meeting beforehand is that it gives you time to get comfortable with each other and chat about anything else going on in your life—which is exactly what I did when I met up with Heather from Beauty by Jessica earlier this month! We talked about everything from her favorite beauty products (she loves Too Faced eyeshadow palettes) all the way up through her top tips for getting gorgeous skin before any big event (use SPF daily!).
Make sure you have a clear idea of when you want your bridal party to be photographed so that you don't get any surprises on the day of the wedding.
Make sure you have a clear idea of when you want your bridal party to be photographed so that you don't get any surprises on the day of the wedding. If your photographer is not aware of this information and goes in search of them before they've been told it's time, it can cause unnecessary stress and confusion.
Something else to consider: if there are multiple events happening at once, maybe an outdoor ceremony followed by an indoor reception with dancing, one thing is certain—you're going to need more time than just one photo session. In addition to all of those photos from pre-ceremony preparations and post-reception fun times (think cake cutting), most newly married couples will want some alone shots with one another during cocktail hour or dinner service!
Make sure your photographs are well thought out and planned in advance so that you can get all the photos you want.
Photography is one of the most important elements of any wedding. You need to make sure you have enough time for all the photos that matter to you. That can mean cutting back on other aspects of your wedding or spending more money, depending on how much importance you place on photography.
Make sure that everyone knows what their role is, from the officiant and bridal party to your photographer and guests. The day will go smoother once everyone knows what they're supposed to do and when they should be doing it (and keeping this information in a central location like Google Drive can help).
If there are certain shots that are important to you—like pictures of grandparents with their grandkids or groups of people who don't get together often—make those photos happen! It might mean asking guests ahead of time if they'll take part in those moments so that afterward you won't be left wondering why no one showed up when it mattered most.*
It's important to know what time you need to step away from your guests to get photographs taken of just the two of you, whether it be right after your ceremony or during cocktail hour.
Timing is important for this photo as you don't want to rush through it. The photographer will need to get photos of just the two of you, so make sure that you don't have other things scheduled immediately after your ceremony or during cocktail hour.
It's also important to know what time you need to step away from your guests to get photographs taken of just the two of you, whether it be right after your ceremony or during cocktail hour. We recommend allowing at least 30 minutes for these pictures, but if there are multiple photographs that need to be taken, then more time would be needed.
If you're interested in learning more about budget-friendly options for your wedding photography, please contact us today! We'd be happy to chat with you about our packages and discounts.
Thank you for reading!
Affordable Wedding photography by Fungirlwithacamera Photography.
Hope from Fungirlwithacamera Photography specializes in affordable wedding photography as well as backyard wedding photography and small intimate weddings. Currently accepting weddings in East Brunswick, Highland Park and surrounding areas in New Jersey.
