Photographers
Capture your day
It’s your wedding day and we all know it’s the most precious and exciting day of your life. But your ceremony and reception will seem like surreal moments in time that pass you by in a split second after months, perhaps even years, of planning for this one very special day. Which is why a record of this event is priceless and why you should put some time into planning the most perfect photo album. That is how your children, grandchildren and countless generations to come will share in the joy and laughter or your special day
First, hire the best professional photographer you can afford; this is the most important factor in creating your heirloom. Even if you are on a low budget, don’t get a family member or friend to act as your photographer. Countless couples are sorry, even devastated, at the results of someone other than a professional.
The first kiss is forgotten, grandmother dancing with the groom is overlooked and priceless other memories are tossed away. And you could spoil a good friendship too.
A professional photographer will be alert at all times and will know what to look out for and how to direct groups of people, giving you pictures that will allow you to relive the day for years to come.
Begin by choosing the right photographer. Start by checking out those featured in this magazine. Ask to see samples of their work and the type of locations in which they have already shot.
Then make a booking as the good ones are sure to be snowed under during the busy seasons.
Next, make sure that your photographer is aware of all your locations and of any restrictions at those location. Use our check-list on the following pages to make sure no shots are missed.
- Engagement photos
- Bride’s location – morning of the wedding
- Groom’s location – morning of the wedding
- Ceremony location and any important details
- Reception location and any important details
On the day -
Do not be concerned on the day about ‘perfect’ pictures or posing, just smile, be happy, enjoy your fairytale day and just have fun and be the real you. This will ensure timeless memories and some fantastic shots.
The album -
Choose from the wide range of albums on the market, from the traditional to the modern. When you are discussing the layout with your photographer, keep the following in mind….
Be sure to give each image the uniqueness and space it needs. Try to avoid ‘cramming’ in images.
A well designed photo album will allow each photograph its own ‘impact’ factor, with the average page covering two to three photographs with the odd enlargement to stand out and add impact. Think of how the album will be viewed, the first page being the ‘entrance’ to the album. An important array of photographs must be placed here, perhaps pre ceremony shots or one rather touching enlargement?
Page two and three create an ‘open spread’ and they must be designed to compliment each other as if they were one page.
Do not use the same design more than two times consecutively. That goes for enlargements and smaller prints; there should be no predicting what’s on the next page. Do not place images of you looking right, on the right of the page.
Try to avoid too many ‘busy’ pictures on one page. ‘Busy’ meaning several crowd shots, too many colors, or several very similar shots in a row. You will not notice the detail and the effect will be lost.
Wedding details such as centerpieces, flowers or intimate shots are ideal for contrasting against the’ must have’ formal shots of the wedding.
These will reflect the certain style of your day and capture the details you fretted over for months before.
The eye naturally moves from left to right, Be sure to lay the images out so that they naturally follow the direction, from beginning to end of your day, Allow the album to tell the ‘story’ of your day. Pre ceremony, Ceremony and Reception.
Remember, after the cake has been eaten your album will remain, a timeless classic story for all future generations to see.
