Your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime event, and capturing those unforgettable moments is essential. Having a talented photographer is just one part of the equation, but if you plan your day with photography in mind, it will help ensure you get stunning, meaningful images that will be treasured for years to come. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to get the most out of your documentary-style photographer, like me!

Venue permissions and restrictions

One important (and often overlooked) step in wedding photography planning is ensuring your photographer has permission to capture photos in all areas of your venue. Some venues have restrictions that may limit your photographer’s access to key spaces or even the use of certain equipment like drones or flash photography.

Check Venue Policies: Speak to your venue ahead of time about any rules regarding photography. Some historical venues or religious sites may have strict guidelines about where photos can be taken, especially during ceremonies. Knowing these in advance allows your photographer to plan accordingly.

Should You Have an Unplugged Wedding?

An unplugged wedding is when you ask your guests to refrain from taking photos or videos during the ceremony, leaving the job to your professional photographer. There are pros and cons to consider, but it’s something worth thinking about.

Pros of an Unplugged Wedding: When guests are glued to their phones, you may end up with a sea of screens in the background of your photos rather than the loving faces of your friends and family. Plus, an unplugged ceremony allows your photographer to capture moments without guests stepping into the aisle or blocking key shots.

Cons to Consider: On the other hand, some couples appreciate the candid, behind-the-scenes shots guests can capture. If you decide against an unplugged wedding, just ensure your guests are respectful of the professional photographer’s work and don’t interfere with key moments.

I don't mind either way, just as long as I have priority!

First Kiss and Isle Kiss

Once you've finally been told you can kiss during the ceremony, don't rush it! It might be a little embarrassing but it goes by so quickly for the guests and photographer.

After you’ve said “I do” and are walking back down the aisle, a quick mid-aisle kiss can be a beautiful moment to capture and it makes for an iconic photo opportunity. If you forget don't worry I will make a little hand gesture to remind you as it's my favourite photo to get!

Choosing the Right Confetti

Confetti moments are pure joy, and they create stunning photos. However, not all confetti is equal when it comes to photography.

• Larger Confetti for Better Photos: Consider using larger pieces, such as petals or biodegradable tissue paper shapes, which catch the light more effectively and show up better in photos. You'll want each piece to be over 2cm and order lots more than you think, enough for each guest to have two giant handfuls each.
• Tell Guests to Throw Upwards: I always tell guests to throw it up and over your heads so it floats down, otherwise you'll have fistfuls of confetti in your eye! I recommend is confetti canyons - it throws the confetti high in the air and looks absolutely amazing. Try to look at each other, forward or at your guests when walking - you'll be tempted to shield your eyes from the confetti.
• Coordinate with Your Photographer: On your questionnaire do let me know when you are planning on throwing confetti and I will organise your guests to get the best photographs! This is usually creating two lines and each guest throwing the confetti as you walk past.

Be Candid with Your Partner

This might be an obvious one but you'll be surprised how often brides and grooms spend the wedding day away from their partner. When there's so many people to talk to it can be hard to stay together but if you are wanting those documentary candid shots, try to stick together!

Forget the Camera: The best way to get great candid photos is to focus on your partner rather than the camera. Whether you’re laughing, whispering, or sharing a quiet moment, staying in the moment with your partner will help your photographer capture authentic emotion.

Don't be afraid to have fun with your photos: As a documentary and candid-style wedding photographer, my photographs capture your wedding as it unfolds. But if you've opted for a couples shoot, you will be a bit more involved. Depending on what we've decided, I will take you and your partner away from your guests for a brief moment, this is usually anywhere between 30 minutes to 1 hour. I will suggest movements, positions and ways to interact based on your preferences i.e running along the street, lifts and spins, walking holding hands, embracing, slow dancing and having a laugh. I will also get close ups and details shots at this moment! I apply 0 pressure to these images and my couples and I always have a great time - they never feel staged or awkward!

When Does The Photographer Take Their Break?

Weddings are long, and even your photographer will need a break. I like to take a break while everyone is eating as no one likes to be photographed while eating! I usually sit close by so that I can be out of the way but keep an eye/ear out for anything exciting happening!

Spontaneous Photographs and Ideas

Sometimes, if the sunset is looking particularly amazing or the light is hitting a spot just right, I will suggest we make the most of it and take some photographs! This can be couples photographs or your wedding party - whatever you want. It's a great idea to be open to the photographer's creativity especially if you like low light and cinematic-style imagery like I do!

Assign A Family Member or Friend To Be In Charge Of Group Photos

If you have chosen to have group photos, most photographers will bring your curated list with them. But as much as we photographers strive to know everyone's names and faces at a wedding, it will be very hard for them to find your 2nd cousin's partner when calling for group photos! To save time and stress, it's a great idea to give a person who knows most of the wedding party this job.

Give The Photographer As Much Detail As Possible Pre-Wedding

Lastly, the most important tip! Don't skimp on the details. I give all my couples a questionnaire and encourage them to tell me the timestamps for each moment and if there are any specific pictures they're looking for! That way, us photographers know what to expect and can prepare our equipment and time accordingly! If you are hiring photographers and a separate videographer, make sure you allow time for both services during the couple's shots.