Getting married, here are a few tips for better photos…

This is a permanent tips page that will give your photographer better opportunities to get great photos on the day.

The idea is to build with new tips as we go along so if you have anything to add then comment and I’ll add them.

Here are a few tips I’ve put together that should help your photographer to get great photos, if you think I’ve missed anything contact me and I’ll add them

Getting ready:

• Equipment: See if it’s possible to have the PA system concealed or partly concealed, big black speakers never add to a photograph, I’ve often found that the DJ could easily have moved speakers to the side without any ill effect to him but a great improvement to the photos.
• Microphones: See if the venue or DJ can supply a lapel mic rather than a normal full size one, you don’t want the ceremony shots of the two of you looking more like a microphone advert than a real wedding.
• If you do have to use a full size microphone make sure it’s under the chins rather than blocking the faces.
• Flowers at the alter, be sensible: Your photographer is going to be in places your guests are not, don’t block those special moments with a wall of flora!

Arriving at the ceremony:

• As you pull up in the bridal car wind your window down, that way the photographer has a good unobstructed shot into the car without having to deal with the window reflection.
• Don’t be too quick to get out, wait for the photographer – It might be “old school” but a photo of your dad (or whoever for that matter) assisting you out of the car makes for a great shot.

Ceremony:

• If you have bridesmaids and flower girls let them walk right to the front before you start coming down, that way they are not going to block any photos of you and your dad.
• Take your time down the isle, give your photographer lots of opportunity that great shot.
• Rings, now girls I know you have been practising this and can get a ring on a man’s finger in .3 seconds flat – Well done! I can’t however shoot that fast so give me a mo why dontcha… take your time
• Both of you: A long soft kiss looks much better on camera than the “passionate bedroom explorer”, give each other a big slow hug after, it makes for a great shot especially if you can see the smiles of your guests in the photo too

Formals:

• Make a list give it to a bossy bridesmaid or grooms man, that way they can help get everyone together for the photos. The more smoothly the formal photos run the quicker everyone can relax and have a drink.
• Don’t go too crazy with the list, the important photos are of the two of you at the end of the day, you don’t want to waste time thinking of a gazillion family combinations that don’t really mean anything to either of you.

Bridal photoshoot:

• Bring a pair of comfy slip on shoes, you don’t want to ruin those really expensive shoes while walking through a vineyard. You also don’t need a blister either
• A cooler with a few drinks never hurts either.
• HAVE FUN!!! If you guys have fun with each other the photos of the two will be fabulous!! We seldom look better than when we are smiling and having fun

Reception/Decor:

• Tables: Beware of tall things (Flowers, Vases etc…) especially for the main table! Make sure the photographer can get those little moments without being thwarted by table obstructions. Thin vases or thin column flower arrangements work well because they are less obstructive.
• Cake: Think about the background when placing it, I love the colour red but I’ve never seen a big red fire extinguisher make the cake look better!
• First Dance, Cake Cutting, Garter and Bouquet: Make sure you inform your photographer in advance! I like to set up a few lights to create mood and give you the best shots for each moment. Telling me 30 seconds before it’s about to happen is not particularly useful.
• First Dance: Dance the whole song through before inviting your family, give your photographer as much time to get great photos as possible. Check with the DJ that he will do this, its usually the DJ that invites everyone else on 30 seconds into the dance – I make a point of letting them know that the whole song should run it’s course with just the two of you.
• Garter and Bouquet: Again depending on your photographer give them time to setup, the photos will count for more in the end.
• Don’t put the photographers table in another room, he/she needs to see what’s going, any decent photographer will always be alert.

© Greg Lumley 2009

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