WE ARE SO EXCITED TO BE PHOTOGRAPHING YOUR WEDDING DAY AND TO BE WORKING WITH YOU BOTH!
HOW MANY HOURS OF COVERAGE WILL I NEED?
Everyday is different but typically the whole wedding day revolves around the ceremony time. From the time of the ceremony, work backwards to allow time for getting ready photos at each parties location. Typically I spend 30 minutes with each party for getting ready photos with travel time in between, this will give me a start time to your day.
In terms of finish time, this is typically when all formalities are covered, including speeches and usually ending in the first dance which transitions nicely into an open dance floor. I stay for around half an hour of dancing and then my coverage finishes.
SAMPLE RUN SHEET
12:30 - 1:30pm Guys getting ready photos (1 John St, Burleigh)
1:30 -2:30pm Girls getting ready photos (2 Sun Rd, Burleigh)
3:00pm Ceremony (The Chapel, 3 Chapel St, Burleigh)
4:00pm Family and group photos
5:00pm Couple portraits begin
6:00pm Reception commences (The Chapel, 3 Chapel St, Burleigh)
6:30pm Entrees served
7:00pm Speeches begin
7:30pm Mains served
8:00pm First dance
8:30pm Coverage concludes
TIMING WILL VARY DEPENDING ON THE FOLLOWING:
- If you decide to get ready together.
- If getting ready locations are at the venue or relatively close by.
- If you include a ‘First Look’ prior to the ceremony.
- If the ceremony venue is at a different location to the reception venue.
- If you have all the formalities at the beginning of the reception.
HOW LONG WILL WE NEED FOR PORTRAITS?
I would allow at least an hour. It is advised to choose locations for photos close to the reception venue or on the way to the venue. Most of the time portraits can be taken on site at your ceremony or reception venue.
This includes family photos, bridal party and couple portraits. Always allow some time for Golden hour (sunset), even if it’s just 15 minutes.
FIRST LOOK
A first look is a private reveal that happens before the ceremony when the couple react to seeing each other for the first time on their wedding day. This is followed by some portraits and can be accompanied by the bridal party.
WHAT IF IT RAINS?
I’ll start by saying that when there is rain there are overcast skies, which makes for beautiful lighting that is perfect for photos. However, no-one wants to get wet on their wedding day!
Here are 3 things we can do if the forecast says rain on your wedding day:
1. Around the weather. Wait for a gap in the rain and take advantage of taking portraits then.
2. Bring some umbrellas. If the rain is light getting out in the rain with an umbrella makes for really great photos. We always bring a few just in-case.
3. Find an indoor location. We can go into a cool bar or restaurant or another undercover location and take photos inside if the rain is too heavy.
FUR BABIES
Should your dog be a part of your wedding? The answer is a resounding yes!
GETTING READY PHOTOS
Get dressed with your crew
Getting ready photos are all about capturing the atmosphere before the ceremony and makes for great candid moments. It also contributes to telling the overall story of the day. It’s an opportunity to photograph your well chosen details, such as invites, jewelry and any other sentimental items that you have incorporated into your day.
Location
Think about where you want to get ready on your wedding day as the location can impact your photos. A tidy, bright and airy location, an uncluttered room with a big window is perfect. Some choose to rent an air Bnb or a hotel close to the venue.
Hair and Makeup
Make sure hair and makeup is completed by the time I arrive for photos. Remember, don’t be dressed and ready when I arrive for photos.
IDEAS THAT MAKE GREAT MOMENTS
Sharing cards on the day
Exchanging gifts
The Reveal to the Bridal Party
The Reveal to the Dad
THE CEREMONY
Some couples choose to ask their celebrant to announce to your guests not to take photos during your wedding ceremony. This way I will be able to capture your guests reacting to what’s happening in real life rather than seeing a sea of devices.
If possible, ask your celebrant to stand to the side and not behind you so you are facing your guests and you don't have your back to them.
FAMILY PHOTOS
Family photos typically happen after the ceremony. Put together a list prior to the day of family groups you want photographed. This can be immediate family or extended family. Its up to you.
Give that list to a family member or a friend so they can round up everyone so we can get through the photos quickly and efficiently.
GOLDEN HOUR
Embracing the gorgeous glow and soft lighting of the day’s last rays is one of our top wedding day tips.
Make sure you factor it into your run sheet.
DINNER
When your guests are eating, this typically the time I would prefer to have my pre-arranged vendor meal.
This way I don’t get served dinner when speeches or other formalities are taking place or are about to begin. Make sure to inform your venue of this.
DANCE FLOOR
For the best dance floor photos, you need to be in amongst the action.
Typically this is the last formality and my coverage concludes 30 minutes after the first dance is captured.
WE’RE AWKWARD IN FRONT OF THE CAMERA. IS THAT OKAY?
Absolutely! 99% of our couples tell us they’re awkward having their photo taken, even the ones that might look super natural in our portfolio. Our job is to make you feel comfortable, break that awkward barrier and draw out your genuine selves. So don’t worry, you don’t need to be model pros, you just need to be honest, open, and remember how into each other you are, and you’ll be great!
WRAP UP
There's a lot to consider when planning a wedding, but remember these are all only suggestions.
We want you to know that we are here for you each step of the way so if you ever have any questions, feel free to call, text or email any time.
We are excited to capture your special day!
Big Love,
Ethan & Kaity