@2020 STUDIO KSD - Images by Studio KSD Photography & Films
There are so many decisions to make when it comes to planning your wedding, right?
You’ve got to decide on the right venue, find a decorator and figure out what style/ colors will look best, you’ve got to find the right caterer, and the list goes on…
Everyone knows that planning a wedding is a significant investment both in time and money.
But, when everything is said and done, it’s the your wedding photographs that will shape how you remember your wedding day. It’s the one thing you can keep with you for years to come!
I don’t want to sound too much like a mom (but I am a mom of two!), but I love sitting down with kids and going through pictures. And, they love seeing the photos of me and my husband from years ago – especially our wedding album.
These moments and memories are for the both of you. They are also for your parents and of course your future family and kids.
So, to help ensure you have the most amazing photos on your wedding day, I wanted to share with you my 7 secrets to getting these photos.
1. Get Familiar With The Different Photography Styles. Then Ask Yourself Which Style is Best for You
Different photography styles include classic/ traditional, photojournalistic (also referred to as documentary), editorial (fine art).
- Traditional or more classic photography emphasizes posed photography. More “traditional” style photographers are more involved in the day, offering quite a bit of direction and guidance to couples.
- Photojournalistic wedding photography emphasizes capturing authentic moments (as they naturally happen) without the interference or direction from the photographer. The results are images that are filled with emotion and real moments. They may not always be the most “flattering” images, but will tell a true story and allow couples to relive moments.
- Editorial (also referred to fine art) photography has more of a fashion influence. Imagine photos that look like they are out Vogue Magazine, and highly stylized shots with beautiful details.
Once you familiarize yourself with these different styles, you can find photographers that lean more towards the style that truly suits you.
With that said, you’ll find that KSD’s style and approach is a blend of styles. We know that our couples and families want beautiful family portraits. We also love beautiful details and ensuring our couples look great, so we have an editorial influence within our our work. But mostly, we know that all of our couples come to us wanting LOTS of candid moments captured. Capturing those authentic candids is our strength, and makes our style more photojournalistic.
2. Make Sure You Feel a Connection with Your Photographer
Chemistry is important – especially when it comes to your photography. The reason is because this person will be with you the entire day. You’ll want to ensure you feel comfortable because if you’re not… that could come out in the photos. With everyone’s schedules being so hectic these days, ask your photographer if you can set up a Skype or video chat meeting so you can meet.
3. Enjoy Every Moment
If you want photos of laughter and smiles and happiness, then guess what… you’ve got to be feeling and doing those things! J If you’re stressed about details, feeling tired, or worried, then then those are the emotions that will be captured on camera. Be sure you’re well rested and just enjoy the day as it unfolds. The more relaxed you are and the more enjoy every moment, the more you’re going to love your photos.
4. Schedule Enough Time for the Photos that Matter Most to You
Your wedding day will fly back! And, with so many things happening at all once, its easy for the day to run late or the schedule to get off track. However, when things are running a little late, its always the time with photography that ends up getting cut. That being said, if certain photos are important to you, you’ll want to ensure more than enough time is scheduled so these moments aren’t missed. For example, if you want amazing couple photos, then your photographer will likely need at least 30-60 minutes for your couple session. If there is only 10 minutes for couples photos, that will likely not be enough time to get the amazing photos you really want.
5. Schedule Couple Photos During The Golden Hour
If you choose your venue or location because the amazing scenary or thought it would be an incredible backdrop, then you’ll want to ensure you can get the best photos with the best light. If you schedule couple photos for about 45 minutes before sunset, then you’ll be able to take full advantage of the golden hour and get incredible photos with amazing light.
6. Don’t be Afraid to Be Affectionate
Most people love natural photos, and photographers love genuine moments. The more you naturally hug, hold hands, or get cozy next to each other, then more geuine your photos will look. Don’t be afraid to be affectionate.
7. Trust
You will be hiring your photographer based on their vision and perspective on the world. There will be something about them that drew you to them. Photographers see things differently… so trust in their approach and let their creativity shine.