10 Tips for Couples, from Wedding Photographers

Ever wondered what you can do as a client to ensure your wedding photos turn out as good as can be?
Regardless of the photographer you choose, these 10 tips will help you prepare for your wedding day and bring your pics up a notch.

1. LIGHTING IS KEY.

The lighting in your space will significantly impact the results of your photos. Natural lighting is ideal - keep this in mind when choosing a space to get ready, for your ceremony, and for your reception. Make sure to avoid harsh overhead lighting like potlights, or turn them off.

2. choose a nice getting ready location.

The space you choose to get ready in will be the space that is in the background of your photos. Some brides & grooms opt for renting an airbnb or cute hotel room as their getting ready location - this not only gives you an opportunity to elevate your wedding photos, but will make you feel extra pampered on your wedding day!

*Venue: Fairmont Queen Elisabeth, John Lennon Suite. Photography: Ginger Weddings*

3. INTIMATE DETAILS.

Gather up any props or meaningful items you may want to include in your wedding photos and set them aside. This maximizes the time we have for photos, and ensures all of the well-thought out details are captured. Think invitations, jewelry, veils, rings, garter belts, vows, perfume, shoes, ties, suspenders, watches…and any other item that is extra special to you!

4. BREATHE, RELAX, REPEAT.

The more relaxed you are, the better your photos will be. Nothing can go wrong on a wedding day. There may be a few hiccups, but everything will be just fine. It’s your day, and people will be more than happy to accommodate you in any way they can. You’ve hired professionals that you trust to take care of everything you need, so sit back and enjoy some of the most specials moments of your life!

*Venue: Manoir Maplewood. Photography: Ginger Weddings*

5. PHONES DOWN.

In the era of TikTok and Instagram, it’s only natural that your friends and family want to capture every moment as it happens on their iPhone. Our advice is to let them know in advance that there will be professional photographers whom you’ve carefully chosen (and paid for!) to document all of the important moments of your big day. Guests will be more present and engaged on the day of the wedding, and you won’t have to worry about having phones in the background of every shot.

*Venue: Cafe l’Horloge. Photography: Ginger Weddings*

6. CONSIDER A FIRST LOOK.

First looks are becoming the norm now, as fewer and fewer couples are opting to do the great reveal at the altar. Seeing each other for the first time pre-ceremony alleviates a lot of the stress - no pressure, nobody watching, just a nice private moment for the two of you. It makes for a beautiful, intimate photo op in an additional setting. Basically, double the portraits.

7. GIVE YOURSELF TIME.

Timing is important when it comes to your wedding day. Make sure you set aside enough time in your schedule for getting ready photos, a portrait session, family pictures, and of course transportation. Working with your photographers to build a schedule will ensure you don’t miss out on anything important.

*Location: Sucrerie de la Montagne. Photography: Ginger Weddings*

8. CONSIDER AN ENGAGEMENT SHOOT.

Pre-wedding photos (aka the engagement shoot) is something we recommend to every client. It’s the easiest way to get you more comfortable in front of the camera, and to get to know your photographers. When you see the photos, you’ll be reassured that you photograph well - you’ll feel (and look) like a modelling pro when it comes to the wedding. Trust us, it’s worth it.

*Location: Sandy Beach, Hudson. Photography: Ginger Weddings*

9. don’t be afraid to get dirty.

You only wear the dress once, but photos are for a LIFETIME. So walk in the grass, lie down, get your feet wet. Do whatever you want. You’d be amazed what dry-cleaning can do these days. Seriously, don’t be scared.

10. get creative.

Got something crazy you want to do? A unique idea or theme? We guarantee you the photographers will be down. So don’t be shy to explore any inspiration, themes, props, or locations that spark something in you. Or ask your photographers for ideas. The best shots you’ll get are ones where you allow full creative liberty.

MAKE YOUR WEDDING PHOTOS SHINE