We spoke to some of our favourite photographers from our Real Weddings section, to enlighten you with top tips when it comes to the wedding photography on your special day…
Decide what style of photography suits you
“Choose a certain style of photography that suits both you and your h2b, and the wedding you’ve got planned. Do you want a lot of formal shots of your family and friends? Or would you prefer a more relaxed or documentary style? You can then shortlist photographers from there.” Jane Bailey, janebaileyphotography.co.uk
Use social media to get to know your photographer
“Most couples book their wedding photographer at least a year in advance. That’s loads of time to really get to know them as real people and not just professionals. Social media makes it easier to connect – friend them on Facebook, follow them on Pinterest and Instagram, and find them on Twitter.” Sarah Folega, folegaphotography.co.uk
Check the photographer’s location
“Choosing a local wedding photographer eliminates any chance of an ‘I’m stuck in traffic’ call on the morning of your wedding. If a wedding photographer has a long journey to get to your venue, they will most likely stay nearby the night prior to your wedding, but it’s a good idea to check.” Chris Kervin, photographers247.co.uk
Consider an ‘engagement’ shoot
“If you have an engagement shoot before your wedding, it gives you a chance to become more familiar with your photographer and what he is looking for from you. He can advise on how to look your very best. Also, the best picture from this session can be used on wedding stationery and all sorts for the big day!” Rory Lindsay, rorylindsay.co.uk
Don’t be too bossy
“Try not to over-manage your photographer by giving them a huge list of ‘must have’ shots, like ‘Dad looking at the bride lovingly’, or ‘bride and groom cutting the cake’. Photographers work best when they’re free to capture the day as it really unfolds; by observing those moments which are special and personal to your wedding – not when they’re trying to collect specific, staged shots like a giant scavenger hunt!” Mia Hooper, mia-photography.com
Stretch your budget
“If you can, when it comes to your wedding photographer, stretch your budget. You really do get what you pay for!” Sarah Legge, sarahleggephotography.co.uk
Enquire about copyright
“Will you be allowed to duplicate, publish and print your wedding photos? Each photographer will have different rules about what you can and can’t do with their photos, so it’s important to double check!” Chris Kervin, photographers247.co.uk
Make sure your photographer is well-briefed
“If you have a dream shot, like kissing in the doorway of the church, or a special move in your first dance, tell them so they are prepared and can think of the best ways to capture it.” Rory Lindsay, rorylindsay.co.uk
Make the most of the professionals
“Trust us, and use us for advice! We’ve been to a lot of weddings so ask if you’re not sure of anything. We can fill you in on a few things, like guests don’t really bring that much confetti, speeches always take longer than people think, DJs and bands take ages to set up, and brides never ever fall over.” Sarah Legge, sarahleggephotography.co.uk
Connection, connection, connection
“I cannot stress enough the importance of having a great connection with your wedding photographer. After all, you will spend more time with your photographer than with each other on the day. That connection will help you to relax in front of the camera, producing spectacular results!” Sarah Folega, folegaphotography.co.uk
Try to avoid too many formal ‘line up’ photos
“Five or six picture should cover off all the really key people at the wedding. Any more than that and you are missing out on special time chatting with friends and family, and enjoying your big day with them.” Rory Lindsay, rorylindsay.co.uk
Get in your ‘best side’
“Don’t be afraid to tell your photographer your ‘best side’ before the big day! It’s something they can bear in mind during bride and groom portrait shots and so on.” Jane Bailey, janebaileyphotography.co.uk
Ditch the receiving line
“I think receiving lines are a time sink. Use that time more wisely by having it for more photographs before going into the wedding breakfast. Get your photographer to capture you speaking to your guests as the day goes on, as the setting becomes much more natural and relaxed.” Sarah Folega, folegaphotography.co.uk
Think about light and timings
“It’s lovely to get outside for photos in natural light if possible, and if you’ve set your heart on some soft, hazy outdoor shots then bear in mind this won’t be possible with a 4pm winter wedding. If it’s important to have lots of group shots, ask how long this will take and build it into your schedule!” Sarah Legge, sarahleggephotography.co.uk
Make sure your photographer is looked after on the day
“It is a long day on your feet, and with heavy equipment, so a quiet word with your caterers will ensure you have a well-fed and watered (but never alcohol!) photographer, who feels energised and ready to work extra hard for you.” Rory Lindsay, rorylindsay.co.uk
Are you camera shy? Then have no fear – we’ve got some tips for you and your bridesmaids! Our wedding photography section is full of useful things for you, so check it out by clicking here! And you can see work from all of these photographer in our Real Weddings section too.
