a little list of things your wedding photographer wants (and needs) to know...
If I'm being honest,...
this list is ever-expanding and changing. After every wedding, especially during the culling process, I usually say to myself something like..."I wish I had known that XYZ, because then I could have done XYZ". As an artist, my entire work is centered around my clients' wedding day, the details, the moments, the decor, and the vibe. This is one of the MANY reasons why my wedding forms are constantly evolving and updating, it's also why I try to "get to know" my clients (even through Social Media) before wedding day! The point of this journal entry is for ALL of my current clients, potential clients, and folks who might find this page while doing their own research to be aware of things that often unexpectedly "pop up" on wedding day that your photographer might not have been expecting. This is a pretty simple list, BUT some super crucial information that you'll definitely want to share with your photographer!
No. 1: The First Look
Are you planning to do one? If so, with who? Not all photographer's are the same OR do business in the same way, my approach does include creating a wedding day photography timeline. It's super important to know about any special moments like a first look, first touch, or private vow exchange that might be happening before you head down the aisle!
No. 2: Aisle Pausing
In about 80% of the weddings that Forever October photographs/videos, we see a dedicated pause when the wedding party or honored guests are coming down the aisle. Have you practiced or planned for a pause? If no, is there a reason? Regardless, we will work with whatever you've got planned and stick to your vision! Keep in mind, without any pauses when coming down the aisle, you may not get "perfect" or matching photos of your wedding party as they make their way down the aisle.
No. 3: Are we cutting the lights for first dances/last dance?
When I arrive at a venue, the very first thing I'm doing is finding the light & taking time to understand it. If you're planning to cut the lights completely, OR add new ones during the course of the celebration - I'd love to know!
No. 4: Planned aisle dips AND choreographed dances
You know that "pinterest" perfect photo when the couple does a dip at the end of the aisle, or suddenly breaks into a really unique and cool move during their first dance? Your photographer really wants to know! We are going to be paying attention anyway, but this helps us anticipate moments & be at the right spot to get your cool moment from the best angle!
No. 5: How long is your wedding ceremony?
Nowadays ceremonies last around 20 minutes, but there are times, when they are SUPER quick, or when happening in a church-setting, may take much longer. As a wedding photographer, I like to know when I can anticipate the big kiss, unity ceremonies, or other traditions you're planning to include in your big day!
No. 6: What are your wedding colors/theme?
This is probably just a "me"/Forever October thing, but I really want to know! My entire profession is centered around paying attention to details & finding them beautiful. A large part of the process is visualizing your day, before it's happened, so that I can map out my artistic approach. Decor, colors, details that are special and important to you...they're also really important to me!
No. 7: Special circumstances/family drama...
I have found that weddings mostly bring out the absolute best in the people we love, whether it be friends or family. However, it's really crucial for your photographer (and, entire vendor team) to know about any moment(s) you're wanting to avoid! We don't need all the details, but if you're wanting to keep certain guests separated for photos, especially if it's groupings that we'd typically place together (like parents, grandparents, aunts/uncle) - then we really need to know!
No. 8: Sparklers, Bubbles, Petals...
Honestly, I just want to know. If you're planning an exit, or a celebration down the aisle - your photographer will more-than-likely be the person giving your guests the instructions on what to do to create the best photo for you!
"Aren't you just the photographer? Just take the photos!"
I've heard this several times before, and I'm sure I'll hear it again. That's okay with me!
But, my clients hire me to pay attention, to notice, to see what sparkles, to fix what doesn't, to prompt, to pose, to be a historian of their day, to make sure details are recorded beautifully, and raw emotion is captured authentically. To be able to tell their wedding day story through photos, with the absolutely best of my ability, background knowledge is so important.
So, this is (low key) a shameless plug, to please hire a wedding planner and/or coordinator. Photographers are not planners, or coordinators - even though A LOT is usually deferred to us on wedding day! We want to be in the loop! Most often, the best way for that to happen is when we're able to work symbiotically with your vendor team!
Lots of love,
Bailey
