5 Top Tips from a Multi Award Winning Photographer
1. Research, it’s worth the effort
The number of wedding photographers out there is very overwhelming, so doing your research is really important. Spend some time checking out websites, social media and magazines. This can help you to pick a great photographer that fits within the style you love and most importantly your budget.
When you have a shortlist of potential photographers, give them a call. Make sure to ask to see an entire wedding. That will give you a better understanding of what you can expect on your wedding day.
2. Book a consultation
Another top tip is to make sure you have a consultation. In person or zoom but for me this is a must. It’s really that important you feel comfortable with your photographer. A consultation will calm nerves around your photography. It’s very common to not like having your photograph taken, but once you are relaxed and trust your photographer, you will enjoy the photography process.
3. Book a pre-shoot
An engagement shoot is a great way to get to know each other and see if you’re a perfect match. Your photographer will be spending more time with you on the day than you will with each other, so if you don’t feel comfortable then that’s a bad sign.
The right photographer will be obvious very quickly as you will feel comfortable whilst still possibly outside of your comfort zone. They should ask you lots of questions and, importantly, be excited about your day.
4. Plan your photography
Once you have your photographer booked you must make a plan.
Have a think about your formal group photos, who would you like, who’s most important. I always advise to just pick 10 as this can take around 35/40 minutes to complete and arrange. Make a written list a make sure a number of groomsmen have a copy to help round guests up.
When arranging your schedule with your venue factor in 30 minutes for photos. Many take this time from the drink reception meaning you are not present when the Prosecco is flowing and yummy canapés.
5. Go ‘unplugged’ for the ceremony
Ever been to a wedding or seen a wedding photo with a sea of cameras and phones? Me too.
Whether your guests are snapping away or posting to Instagram, they may be looking through the lens rather than being in the moment at your wedding. If you’d rather they put down their camera ask them to.
Allow your photographer to take the shots and your guests to truly relax and enjoy the moment. A simple sign here or there, or perhaps ask your wedding coordinator to make an announcement before the ceremony.
It should also allow for much nicer images of your guests during the ceremony and other parts of the day like the cake cutting and first dance.
Let's hear from the man behind these top tips…
Hello! I am Andy Thomas, lead photographer and owner of Chic Wedding Photography, Essex. I am multi-award-winning photographer who is friendly, professional and approachable. I have been photographing weddings for over 10 years and have covered over 400 of these special days.
My relaxed, efficient approach and years of experience ensures I will get the very most out of you and your guests on your big day. I pride myself on capturing those special moments, details and memories for you to cherish for a lifetime with minimal fuss.
My photography is creative and beautifully executed to suit our couples unique requirements. We can cater for traditional posing, groups shots, candid and natural, or perfectly planned and staged fashion style photography. My wedding photography services are available all over London, Essex and the surrounding areas. International weddings I even cater for too.
