8 Things to tell your Wedding Photographer

1. Do you need detail shots (rings, earrings, shoes, etc)?

As a wedding photographer, I personally think the detail shots that are taken in the morning really help to bring together the entire gallery.

2. Family Photos – a checklist of photos you need.

If you want posed family photos then a shot list is a great thing to have. That way nobody gets left out by mistake.

3. Key family members you want photographing?

Is there anyone that is extremely important that needs to be photographed? For example, family that has flown from abroad or traveled across the county in a horse and cart! 

4. Are there any surprises?

Is there anything unexpected happening in which your photographer should be ready for? For example, I was at a wedding once where the bride and groom suddenly reached for a bullwhip and a cowboy hat just before they walked back down the aisle. All I’m saying is, a warning would have been great so I had time to prepare!

5. What DON’T you want photos of? 

A photographer will always ask you what you want capturing. Quite often you’ll come to a blank, so change the questions. There’s bound to be a couple of things at the very least that you don’t like or feel you need. The last thing you want is to feel under pressure to have the ‘classic photos’ taken even if you don’t want them. At the end of the day, it’s your wedding and what you say goes.

6. A timed plan of the day.

Even if your time schedule goes totally out the window it is still really handy to have. It gives your photographer an idea of the order of events at the very least.

7. Posed romantic photos or strictly documentary photos?

This is one of those things where it totally depends on the couple. Some people love romantic photos, others hate the thought. I will say some people regret not having any romantic photos taken, so bare that in mind when planning your wedding.

8. You want romantic photos… but is there time in the schedule to do so?

Great! So you’ve decided you do want some beautifully eye-catching, frame-worthy photos! But is there time where you can go off with your photographer to take some photos? Sometimes this can be a squeeze, but it’s more than worth it. Also, on the plus side, it’s a great time to have a breather from the guests!

Obviously there are more things your photographer will need to know, like where and when you’re getting married. Every wedding is different because it’s not going to be the same people with the same needs. Your photographer’s goal is always going to be to photograph the day how you want it capturing.

These are just a couple of things that may be overlooked at the time. It’s easily done but hopefully this gave you a couple of points you might not have thought about. It’s your wedding and everything needs to unfold exactly as you envisioned in order for it to be your perfect day.