Photo Thursdays- Tips for your wedding day

Everytime I contract with a bride to take her wedding day photos, I send her a list of tips for her special day that will make her photos the best possible. Since many of you ask often, how to get the best photos out of your sessions with photographers. I thought I would share my wedding day tips with you.

1.Relax. We know it’s a big day, but you’ve planned it all out and now it’s time to enjoy the ride.
2. Try to get some rest the night before. It’s going to be a long day and it will only seem longer and more stressful if you don’t get some sleep.
3. Smile. Seriously, how could you not when you’re marrying your soul mate? But keep smiling. Let yourself laugh. Have a good time. This is what it’s all about.
4. Designate one of your bridesmaids or family members to be the photographer liaison. This person’s job will be to communicate with the photographer what needs to be done. Are you entering at a certain location? What time are you entering? Are there any last minute changes? Is there something in particular you want? Not only will this take the stress off you, it will give your bridesmaid something more to do than wear a pretty dress.

5. Wear comfortable shoes. Nothing is more painful than taking wedding pictures in uncomfortable shoes. We know you want to look lovely, but most wedding dresses do a great job covering up shoes. Sketchers makes a very comfortable white shoe that looks somewhat like a durable ballet slipper. These are great for all the post-wedding ceremony photos.
6. Focus on your spouse. There will be a lot of people at your wedding to support and congratulate you. You’ll surely be thinking of everything you’ve planned, but the most important thing you can focus on is your spouse. Fortunately, that’s probably all you’ll be able to focus on.

7. Focus on the camera. Chances are there will be dozens of cameras at your wedding and/or reception. Multiple people will want to take your picture and have you smile for their camera. However, there will only be one professional photographer there: us. We need your eyes and smiles focused on us. So while Aunt Thelma will be begging for your attention, please keep your eyes on us. It will ensure you get the best possible photos. Plus, digital photographs mean you can e-mail them to your Aunt later so she can enjoy them too.
8. Eat something. Preferably many times throughout the day. It’s a long day and it goes by very quickly. Finding time to squeeze in a bite to eat can be a huge challenge. You will keep your energy up much longer if you eat something, especially before the reception.

9. If there’s something you really want during your photo shoot, speak up! We’d love to hear it and do it for you.