A question I get asked all of the time is, “How should we schedule our wedding to get the best photos?” I love this question because it means that the couple is really considering their photography and will create their schedule in a way to give us the best opportunity for great photos. My answer is simple: the best way to get good photos is to create the least amount of stress during the wedding day as possible. Sophie and I have come up with a few ideas that we think will help!
Two “must do’s” when scheduling your wedding day.
Be with each other as much as possible! We will get more in depth with this idea in a coming blog post but it is amazing to us how little couples are actually together on their wedding day. The more you are together, the more relaxed you are and the more opportunities we get to document those little unplanned and unposed moments.
Create the schedule to be as flexible as possible. A plan is important, but things happen. Always. In 7 years of wedding photography, I’ve never been a part of a wedding that 100% stuck to its’ schedule. Creating as much flexibility in the plan as possible allows everyone to stay relaxed and just go with the flow. Helpful tip: If you think something will take an hour, plan for an hour and a half. Any extra time you end up with just means more time to be together and possibly more photos!
Some ideas for the day:
Get ready in the same location or even the same room. We are serious about this being together stuff! But, also getting ready near each other allows us as photographer to be available to both people as they get ready. It also allows the parties to communicate if things need to be discussed.
Have all details ready to be documented. We love details. Any detail that make your day uniquely you is what we love! If things like your dress, accessories, and flowers, etc. are organized and available, as soon as we get to the venue, we can document as many of them as possible!
First look, first look, first look. If you follow us at all, you know we love first looks. So much so that I wrote a blog about them. But, nothing opens up a schedule and lowers the stress of a day like a first look. If you would like to know more about what that is, check out the blog i wrote!
Family photos done quickly and efficiently. Yes, we do family photos! The best way you can help us with these is by discussing as a couple before the wedding day who you would like in the photos. After you’ve decided, inform the requested family members that they will be in photos. Another helpful tip: request the officiant to let the family member(s) know where the photos will be taking place and to stay there until they are dismissed. It saves a huge amount of time and stress when you are not searching for Uncle Joe.
Attend your cocktail hour, and enjoy it! At this point in the day, we will have had plenty of opportunities with the two of you. We will also have all family photos and bridal party completed. Now is the time to grab a drink and enjoy time with your guests. Or to sneak away for a few minutes of alone time. Or to even take more photos if you want! Either way, the point is that the time between family photos and the reception is yours to enjoy.
Get everything done at the reception as quickly as possible. Get all events/ceremonies done as soon as you make your entrance into the reception. This includes cake cutting. first dance, speeches etc. This will allow you to relax and enjoy your reception rather than constantly wondering what is next.
We may steal you away for some photos during the sunset. At some point in the evening, we will approach you and request a few minutes for photos during “golden hour,” (as seen in the photo at the top of this post.) This is by far the best time of the day for photos. The lighting is soft, warm, and beautiful. This also gives you just a few more minutes to spend with your new bride/groom!
Here’s the best part! When Sophie and I are not tied to a rigorous schedule, we are free to pay attention and document the moments that are unplanned and unposed. These are the moments you will remember forever. These are the moments that make Sophie and I love what we do!
Thanks for reading.