If I am requested to take photos of the bride getting ready:
Choose a dressing area with lots of natural light and roomy if possible.
Decorate the bride dressing area.
Have the bridesmaids clean up "junk" or stuff that's not wedding related but don't make it too clean and neat. Take out the empty boxes and bags. Cover ugly furniture with plain drape cloth.
No window? Maybe Christmas light or candles?
Direct light through the window needs to be diffused with curtains, drape or gauze.
Light from a North facing window is a photographer's dream.
Feel free to tell us to step out at any time. If no one says anything, we will assume it is ok to stay.
I like to do natural photos. It tends to make them more unique if you come up with your own ideas. If you have an idea please throw it in even if you think it sounds silly or impossible to do. One idea sometimes evolves into more ideas.
You don't always have to look at the photographer. The goal is to make you look like you don't even know you're being photographed. I will tell you roughly where to stand and you can play, hug, kiss and dance around. This is your day, have fun and make the most of it!
When I ask you to kiss, do it very slowly and give a lot of pause at the moment just before the lips touch. About an inch. That is the most romantic part of the kiss. In addition, when you kiss, don't pucker your lips out. Just relax your face and allow your mouth to stay slightly opened. Kiss straight on without tilting your head so that we can see both of your profiles in the photo. On playful images it's ok to smile. Romantic photos need to be more serious. Relax your face and it will look like you are very much in love.
Your hands are important and tell a lot about how you are feeling. So be aware and relax your hands into natural positions. Put them on your partner in ways they feel comfortable.
When walking, try to occasionally lean in for a (take your time) kiss.
I will always have an assistant with me. Sometimes couples and wedding parties don't know where to look when 2 photographers are shooting. Always look at the primary photographer unless asked to do otherwise. The other photographer is shooting from the side or in between shots of the primary photographer in order to get candid shots. Some of the best photos are the ones taken in between the primary photographer's shots.
Don't be camera shy. The best photos are of people's faces and their expressions. If you see us posing for a shot, don't quickly turn your head and shy away. This is a day you don't want to be modest. Ham it up and have fun. You will appreciate it later when you reflect back on your special day by looking at awesome photos.
Please share this information with everyone involved with your wedding.
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