how TO MAKE YOUR WEDDING PICTURE PERFECT… FROM A PHOTOGRAPHER'S PERSPECTIVE

have custom cups or matching glasses for drinks


Nothing causes more of an eye sore than seeing mismatched cans, bottles and random items sitting on a thoughtfully decorated table. So what is the solution for guests to have some drinks but the aesthetic to match? Simple. YOU control what they drink out of. You can have your own custom tumblr's to match the wedding theme/colours, or require all drinks to be served in reusable glasses. Not only is this the eco friendly alternative but it will also make a BIG difference in your photos.

WRITE ALL VOWS + SPEECHES IN A BOOK


The biggest trend I am seeing again and again at weddings is reading off of a phone. I get it, it's convenient, easy and one less thing for you to have to bring with you on the busy day. However, in images, nothing makes a moment seem more disconnected than reading from a phone. Instead, take this time to help your images tell a story. Having a book or paper that reads "vows" or "speech" gives the audience viewing your photos context on what is being documented.

have a sweethearts couch for speeches


Head tables are great, but let's step it up a notch and give a moment for the bride and groom to be seated alone for speeches. A sweethearts couch allows for all your guests to be able to see you and gets rid of distracting objects in your images that you may have placed on your table. No more cell phones, beer cans, leftover food or purses on tables please!! I have lost count of the number of times I've had to walk up to a head table and put tall wine bottles off to the side so that I can fully see the bride and groom's faces. If I am seeing you two this way, you can guarantee most of your guests are too!

HAVE A CHAMPAGNE ENTRANCE TO YOUR CEREMONY


This is my secret weapon! Giving your guests something to sip on is the perfect start to a great wedding celebration. Your guests will be excited to be handed a drink upon arrival and your photographer will be equally as excited when the guests have their hands full holding onto glasses so they won't have a free hand to fumble with their cell phone. Instead they can be present during your ceremony and be ready for a toast/cheers.

HAVE YOUR PARENTS STAY STANDING DURING YOUR CEREMONY


This is a BIG day! Not only for you, but for your parents as well. Including them as a part of your ceremony will mean so much to them, after all, you want those who have been with you and supported your relationship to be standing proud right beside you. From a photographer's perspective, this makes it so much easier for me to capture their emotions as they watch their child get married.

HAVE A CONFETTI-PETAL TOSS FOR YOUR AISLE EXIT


Confetti speaks for itself! Sometimes a couple can get so wrapped up in not trying to trip when walking down the aisle, that they forget to smile and just enjoy the moment! Having petals for your guests to sprinkle over you allows them to be a part of your celebration and gets them smiling for your exit as well.

Ask your guests to dress in black tie


Giving guests a dress code ensures you can be confident when you see your photos. When it comes to your ceremony and reception, I make it a priority to not only capture the newlyweds but to also capture your guest experience's. Certain colours, patterns or styles can be distracting and you may choose to want to guide your guests to be dressed more in line with your theme/colours or wedding season.

HAVE FAMILY DRESS IN THE SAME COLOUR SCHEME AS YOUR WEDDING PARTY


This is a great tip for getting those perfect family photos. Having your family dress alike to your wedding party is the best option for photos. Not only will they stand out seamlessly on your wedding day, but they also get to be a part of the wedding planning process with you. Who doesn't love a good shopping day with mom?!

HAPPY PLANNING!!