Have you ever felt happy looking at a wedding photo where the couple looked genuinely overjoyed, and the photographer captured it perfectly? Such photos make us wish we were able to look as great, in front of the camera.
Some brides were born to be photographed. Their wedding photos are really fun, and these couples enjoy the wedding photo shoot immensely. It’s too bad that not all of us are as photogenic.
Here are some tips to help those brides who find it difficult to relax in front of the camera, and look as perfect as they can be.
Have a pre-wedding photography session
Many brides feel uncomfortable posing in front of the camera, because they are unfamiliar with the photographer. If this could affect you, the best way to avoid it is to familiarize with the photographer’s style by having a pre-wedding photography session. Consider it as a worthwhile investment, and have an engagement shoot. This will introduce you to the way the photographer works, and it will prepare you better to pose on your wedding day.
Relax, breathe and be yourself
Don’t you hate it when you see a picture where the subject is unnecessarily grinning! Unfortunately, many people have this tendency to put on a fake Cheshire cat grin, the minute the camera is on them. It really takes away their natural charm. Since you will be in many photos during your wedding day, try to be yourself and not force a smile.
Forget about the photographer clicking, and just live the moment
The best photos are taken when you are yourself, and the best way to do that is to enjoy yourself without worrying about how you will look on camera. This article on the Boho Weddings website, tells us that it is important to hire a professional photographer, as they are trained in identifying and capturing a couple’s best moments, without being obtrusive. If you want to enjoy your photo shoot and not begin to hate the experience, do two things: find a good photographer, and just enjoy your wedding day!
Make sure your makeup and dressing is good on camera
All you have to do is to do a trial makeup and hairstyling session before the wedding, and click a few pictures to see if you like what you see. Remember that you may look different from what you anticipated. So, checking it out before hand is the best way to make sure. This is even more important if your makeup will feature glitter or spray-on tan, so you can get it right on the day, rather than be disappointed afterwards with how you look in the pictures.
Don’t be too worried about how the pictures will turn out
If you see a beautiful bride in the mirror, why worry that you will not look as good on camera? Discuss your concerns with your photographer before your wedding day, and as a professional he will be able to advise you on how you can pose to look great. Why not get his suggestions on which profile view or angle is right, as well as the extra effect s that will help you look your best. Be optimistic, and just pay attention to your photographer’s cues. Your pictures will be perfect.
The feeling of being newly engaged! Ah! It is different altogether. If you are like most brides-to-be, you should be feeling ecstatic, nervous, over the moon, happy, overwhelmed, and most importantly, totally in love!
How do you hold on to the fresh memories of being just engaged? With an engagement photo shoot, of course!
Engagement photo sessions are not compulsory. Nevertheless, it is a wonderful experience—capturing pictures of the two of you as a couple, and saving it into your treasure box of wedding memories. There are several reasons why we think engagement photo sessions are a brilliant idea, and here are some of them.
It is a way to document the happiness you feel as a couple
Being engaged and committed to one another is a whole other thing to dating or just being in love. Yes, it takes a lot to decide that you will be spending the rest of your life with this person, who you now are head over heels in love with, and whose proposal you just accepted. This article on the Huff Post puts this point across beautifully. We wholly approve, when the author tells us that the most important reason to have an engagement photo is because your engagement is a historic chapter in your life; one that is priceless and deserves to be preserved for yourself and your future descendants to revisit and remember.
Engagement photos help you keep the window of time you found each other, alive forever
As I mentioned before, the time you got engaged is perhaps one of the most important milestone events in your personal life. Not only does it have to be celebrated, it should also be preserved. Give it the due importance it deserves, by freezing it into a frame for all eternity. If you will be having a long engagement before getting married, your engagement photo will be a fond memory to hold on to and keep that special feeling alive.
It gives you the opportunity to test the skills of your wedding photographer
Moving onto more practical details, wedding planning begins almost immediately after your engagement. One of the crucial planning tasks is finding an ace photographer to shoot your wedding. You may have chosen the person for the job based on recommendations from friends, after looking at their portfolio and holding lengthy discussions. Nonetheless, we suggest having an engagement photo session done by the same photographer to personally find out how talented he is. This will give you an actual idea of how well he does his job, and if you like how he shoots the two of you.
It gives you a test run of what you will go through on your wedding day
Wedding photography is entirely different from all the other photos you’ve taken in your life. While you can always just go with the flow, remember that you will be investing quite some money in it. Preparing for your wedding photo shoot with a trial session will help you get a better idea of what to expect on your D-day, and how to make the most of it so your photos end up great. You can understand your photographer’s style of work and it allows you the opportunity to make suggestions if you want something extra or different.
Get your first proper couple photos done professionally
Nowadays every moment is instantly captured as selfies on our phones or hand-held devices. But, just think of how nice it would be if you could have a few photos where you aren’t straining your necks and smiling at the camera from close contact? Your engagement photos will be a beautiful and unique presentation of yourselves looking your best, one that can be framed and made a part of your home décor forever.
It gives you the perfect picture to personalize your wedding stationery with
Wedding invitations with a picture of the couple are a growing trend. Make the most of it, by having a great engagement picture added to your wedding stationery. You can also use the same picture on wedding favors like coasters, photo mint tins and Christmas tree ornaments. This personal touch will make your favors and invitations very endearing.
In short, we can say that engagement photo shoots are fun and something you shouldn’t miss. Now that you know why you should consider an engagement shoot, let’s get down to more serious business. Here are the tips we promised you.
How to nail your engagement photo session
1.What to wear
The best engagement photos are those in which the couple look natural and relaxed. So, choose outfits that you are comfortable in. It is a good idea to make sure that your outfits complement each other, but skip the perfectly matching combination unless that is the look you will still love when you look at your pictures five years later. You can also consider having pictures taken in more than one outfit, as it can spice up the imagery. If either of you chooses a bold solid color or vivid and bright patterns, make sure that the other complements you by wearing a neutral or softer shade in the same color palette that goes with it. Clashing colors can look wild and some patterns may look dated in few years.
2.Get the details right
One important factor to consider is the location where your shoot will be organized. How well will your dress work in this location? Since your photos will be shot from different angles and in both wide and close-up style, make sure that you get all the details including jewelry and accessories like shoes and belts right. Since the focus is to be on both of you, it is best to avoid flashy accessories that can distract. Simple accessories that just enhance your overall style are the best choice.
3.The style to wear
You can save the professionally dressed hair and face for the actual wedding. Even if you choose to get your hair and makeup done professionally for your engagement shoot, make sure you still look natural and like yourself. I like this suggestion on the Every last Detail blog that suggests you make use of the engagement photo shoot to give your wedding makeup artist a trial session. This way, you can see if you are happy with your makeup artist’s skills as well as look great in your pictures.
4.Casual, candid or posed?
This is a decision that you and your partner have to make, prior to your engagement shot. It depends on how you like to see yourselves in pictures. Formal shots can be done in a studio, while casual shots are best taken outdoors. Also think of where you will be using these pictures to decide the style you want to opt for. If you want to share it with your parents and relatives, properly posed pictures with the focus on your faces will be ideal. For your wedding stationery and your own homes, turn to your general decorating style. Is it casual and eclectic, or serious and perfect? Candid photos look best in casual settings while posed photos are a better choice for serious interiors. You may also like consider the color of your outfits or whether you want the actual shots framed or converted into black and white, to find the ones that will look best on your walls.
5.Plan the backdrop
In continuation to the previous point, the backdrop for your picture impacts the overall effect you get with it. You should find a comfortable location, whether it is indoors or outdoors, to get the perfect pictures. If you feel uneasy posing in an outdoor location, but still prefer a natural background, consider having it taken at a good spot in your own backyard. If you want a monochrome background where it’s just the two of you in focus, your pictures can be shot in the studio itself. You can also consider having your pictures taken at a place that is meaningful to the two of you—like the place where you were proposed at, where your first met or where you always hang out.
6.Do you practice for the session?
This reminds me of Monica’s and Chandler’s engagement photo session in the sitcom Friends! Unless you or your fiance has trouble like Chandler and freezes in front of the camera, practice isn’t really necessary. Just follow your photographer’s suggestions and all will be well. If you have any favorite poses, that highlight the best of both of you, you can share that with your photographer and adapt your shots to match this idea. Given that your photographer is a professional, he should ideally be able to identify your best angles and shoot accordingly. When you look at the photographer’s portfolio, make a note of the poses you really liked, and ask if you can do the same. Or if you have your own ideas, bring pictures along, so your photographer knows what you are after.
7.Chalkboards, signage and other props
Not necessary, unless you are particularly fond of them. Remember that in a few years time, these may look cheesy and you may not appreciate the funny engagement photo that you love today. So, while you may want the bushy mustache and tiara now, make sure you take a few pictures without any paraphernalia, so you have a safe bet for the future, should your tastes change with time. One prop you shouldn’t however forget, is your engagement ring. That will be a valuable addition to your pictures.
8.Get creative
This goes for all the factors, from poses to outfits to using your pictures. Make the most of your engagement session by breaking free and finding yourselves. Strike a few poses, but if it doesn’t seem to work out, be yourself. You may even set a new trend that way! Try an unusual location or a dress style that you may not wear otherwise. Draw all the inspiration you want from Pinterest and the beautiful pictures floating around on the internet everyday, but ultimately let your engagement photos be a reflection of who you are as individuals and as a couple.
9.Have fun
Don’t worry too much about how your engagement photos will turn out. Just make sure you have the best time you can, and trust the rest to your photographer. A good professional will know how to make the best of what is available, and will make sure that your pictures reflect the best. Or, if you have a friend who is an amateur photographer with exquisite photography skills in the outdoors, ask him to do your pictures instead. Ultimately all that matters is getting a few fabulous photos that are perfect for the frame. Plan your photo session for a time when you are relaxed, calm and free from stress. This will allow you to enjoy yourselves to the most, and capture the best photographs you can possibly get.
So, what do you say? Will you be having an engagement photo session?
To help you understand what type of photography would best suit your personality, we suggest you take a look at this article on Best for bride on the different styles of wedding photography.
At Best for Bride we offer brides-to-be a range of photography options and specialized package deals to cater to every requirement of yours. Check out the samples we have online, and you can easily identify the style of photography that suits you, and the photographer who can accomplish it. Or you can get in touch with us and we can help you identify the best choice for your taste as well as customize the available packages to suit your specific requirements.
Our team will make sure that your photographs are a befitting addition to your wedding package, and will help you relive the biggest event in your life, through these memories captured digitally. Whether you have a modern or traditional wedding, and whether it is held indoors or outdoors, we will make sure that you get the best choice, and that your wedding memories live on forever, in style.
Your wedding photographs are the memories of your wedding that will accompany you for a lifetime, and perhaps even outlive you. So, you don’t want to skimp and get it wrong. Professional wedding photographers are worth their weight in gold, but getting your wedding pictures done by them can actually take a chunk out of your wedding budget. The Knot’s real wedding survey suggests that the average couple spends $2556 on their wedding photography, which is quite a lot of money. Fortunately, there are some ways in which you can make your money go further and get the best possible results for what you can afford. Let us find out what they are.
Research well and book early
First and foremost, don’t assume that you will get an unreasonably high discount, however early you look. So, start with someone who has rates that you can afford. Take the time to check out photographer portfolios and reviews, and find a photographer whose style you like. Although you may have a limited budget, you can still find the best photographer for that budget provided that you begin your search early and zero in on the right candidate.
Make use of discounts
You must have gone through the wedding photos of your friends. Is there any that you have loved in particular? If you haven’t really given much thought to this, think about it now. This way, you may find a good photographer who gives you a better deal because of the reference your friend provides. It is also likely that photographers offer referral discounts if you get someone else to sign up for their services as well. If you know of any other engaged friends, recommend your photographer to them. If they like him as much as you do, you may even and snag a discount when they sign up for his services.
Look for package deals and stick to the digital version till you can make your album
Many photographers offer package deals, and you can choose the one that fits your budget. Set some time aside to discuss your options, and find out if you can customize the available choices to fit your needs. Don’t worry too much about getting your wedding album ready right after the wedding. The important thing at this point is getting the pictures taken by a good photographer. Once you have the digital prints ready, start working on your wedding album only when you have the budget for it. Else, put it off till when you do. You do not have to worry, as you will always have the pictures to put into the album. Just don’t forget all about it. Make sure that you will get your album ready as soon as you have the necessary amount put aside for it. Share the digital prints with your friends and wedding guests soon after the wedding, so you do not have to postpone the excitement of sharing those memorable moments.
Find more valuable tips and advice to plan your dream wedding and stick to budget by visiting us at Best for Bride.
Your wedding day may pass too quickly, but photos of the event will help you remember every detail of the day for years to come. Hence, the relevance of a wedding photographer cannot be overlooked. In the hands of a professional, your wedding memories are safe, and captured as you wish to remember them.
There are various styles of photography available today, and not all styles may appeal to you equally. Find one that suits your taste, and ensure your wedding pictures will recreate the magic of your wedding day, every time you look at them.
Once you choose the style of wedding photography – traditional, photojournalistic, the mix of both or artistic, it is time to find the bridal photographer to handle the task. Here is a checklist of things that will help ensure that you find the right photographer and freeze your wedding memories perfectly.
First and foremost, plan your budget
As with all other vendors, different photographers have different rates. Before you start your search, you should know how much you can afford to spend. There are great photographers who can do your job beautifully, without your having to spend a fortune on it. Start early, and you will have time to find the right candidate for the job.
Obtain reviews of the service from previous clients
Don’t be taken in by smart advertising and pictures that are available on the photographer’s website. Check with clients who have actually used the photographer, and ask them for their opinions on the service provided. If you are satisfied with what you hear, book an appointment with the photographer.
Ask to see a range of pictures
Photographers will usually have a set portfolio, which they share with their clients. While this allows you to get a fair idea of the quality of work, you should also remember that these are usually the best ones they’ve taken. So, ask for more pictures than what is in their portfolio. Or, ask them if you could have a look at a previous client’s album. You can get a better idea of their style and ability by looking at more pictures.
Discuss, clarify and question
Ask what all pictures your package will include. Discuss the available options, take time to create your own list of must-have photos, which will include the list of group shots you want and share it with the photographer. Most good photographers will be ready to accommodate their client’s requests, but make sure you check this is, before signing your contract. Share the timetable of your wedding day, and tell your photographer where he should be at a specific time, so he doesn’t miss any of the special moments on your big day.
Get it in writing
Make sure that you include every single detail in your written contract. There should be clauses regarding how emergency situations will be handled, when and how the photographer’s fee will be paid, when you will receive your prints and the total price including all overhead costs. If you make any further changes to plan, add it to the contract and have your photographer countersign it. This will help you get the service you signed up for, without any hassles.
For more wedding tips and advice, and for all your wedding needs, visit us at Best For Bride.
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Have you ever felt happy looking at a wedding photo where the couple looked genuinely overjoyed, and the photographer captured it perfectly? Such photos make us wish we were able to look as great, in front of the camera.
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