While many brides are completely happy with the way their wedding pictures turn out, unfortunately many brides have looked back with regret, wishing their photographer had done certain things better or that the communication between the photographer and them had been better. They end up unhappy with some aspect of their wedding pictures and that is so sad! Your wedding photos should perfectly capture everything you want about your special day. Those captured memories will be with you for a lifetime. So here are a few more tips to improve communication with your photographer to endue that you get the specifics, the quantity, and the quality of pictures you want and deserve from your big day.
1. Some photographers are so good at taking pictures of all the little details of the wedding and truly capture every memory for you. Others not so much . So if you want pictures of all the little details, decor, favors, etc, make sure that is understood by your photographer.
Wedding details photo by Amber Shaw Photography
2. If you want more direction from the photographer, TELL THEM! Especially in group photos!
3. Be specific about who you would like pictures of. Who are the VIPS. Do you mostly want pictures of you and your new husband? Do you want a lot of family pictures? Do you want to capture all the fun pre wedding moments and other great photo ops with your bridesmaids? The wedding party? Who do you want in your pictures? Discuss this with your photographer. It would probably be a good idea to write out a list of specific shots you want taken or pictures you definitely want with certain important people.
4. Some photographers work in teams. Consider if that is something that you would want. A second photographer, with a second camera has the likelihood to capture even more special moments, different moments from different perspectives or vantage points, etc.
Photo Credit: Green Wedding Shoes
5. Some photographers love what they do more than others. Find a photographer that is PASSIONATE about what they do. Find a photographer that LOVES what they do!
6. Will the photographer provide a CD or allow you to choose from all the pictures taken? Some photographers just take it upon themselves to pick the “best of” themselves without giving you options. If you don’t want that, discuss it with them. Also understand who will have the digital rights and for how long.
7. Make sure you develop a relationship with your photographer before the day of the wedding so that you know you can communicate with them on the day. If your personalities don’t mesh, or if they are a quiet, closed off photographer, you may not feel comfortable conveying what you want.
Photo found here
8. Make sure the lighting is good and discuss lighting with your photographer.
9. It is your day and if you know shots that you wanted haven’t been taken, you definitely have the the right to request them. Don’t wait until after the wedding and have a big list of, “I wish I had this or that picture.” Request it, remind the photographer, demand it. It is your wedding and you can tell the photographer what photos you want captured!
10. Most photographers know what basic wedding photos should be taken. Find a photographer that goes beyond that to capture the in-between moments, the candid shots, the visiting with guests, the interactions with friends and family. Those captured memories will be just as equally important to you as the posed ones.
Photo Credit: Grey Likes Weddings
So it seems that if problems occur between brides and the photographer it boils down to a few problems that can be prevented and should be taken care of long before the day of the wedding so that no bride looks back at her pictures wishing they had something more. First, communicate. Lack of communication can cause SO many problems. In any relationship, business or personal, clear communication is key to making sure everyone is on the same page. Maintain that clear communication through every aspect and every stage so everyone’s expectations are met – before, during, and after the wedding day. Second, let your photographer know that you want direction, ideas, and both parties should have a shot list prepared and understood so nothing that is desired is missed. Have we mentioned the importance of open COMMUNICATION!
Photo Credit: Regi Photo
1. ”You need to take the initiative to make sure your bride understands what you are going to provide for her, before, during and especially after the wedding. Spend the time to communicate with her what it is exactly you will do on the day of and during the days following the wedding so that she feels comfortable trusting you with the important role of documenting her wedding day.”
2. “Although some brides felt that their photographers weren’t creative enough with the poses, it is evident that many brides prefer for their photographers to not only be open to pose suggestions, but to have a prepared list of poses that include portrait shots as well as whimsical, fun poses.”
Ideas and quoted tips for photographers from this article.
