It's the most important day of many happy couples' lives, and wedding photographs play a huge part in bringing back happy wedding day memories.
In most cases, couples don't really think about the actual photographs until it comes to reviewing them afterwards.
To avoid any disappoint when those wedding photos arrive and your sat thinking "Why didn't we think of that" or "We forgot to ask the photographer about that"... get your list together now.
Whilst there's a standard list of images every good photographer will know to capture, there may be a few important shots that you are after which would be different to other clients they've had previously.
This may be dependant on a family member, a certain aspect of the reception or your chosen location. Whatever it may be it's important for you to think about this, to know what these are, and make sure you make them a priority by talking to your photographer in advance.
A week or so before the ceremony, supply your photographer with the list of moments you wish to be captured. For amateur photographers in particular, a checklist is an invaluable guide to ensuring you miss nothing out.
Your photographer should also explore the alternatives, capture the details, bring their own ideas to the table and capture informal and relaxed reportage photography.
As our expert Wedding Photographer, Keith Appleby, states; "A bride's moment is so fleeting. Wedding photographers must have absolute speed, precision and the ability to use guests as their greatest allies".
Now let's head to our list for ideas!
Pre Wedding - Getting ReadyThe wedding day might not officially start until after midday but consider having your photographer there to capture the build up and all that preparation you and your family are putting in on the morning of the wedding.
Intimate shots of bride and groom chatting with/crying with/hugging parents and siblings pre-ceremony
From walking down the aisle to signing the register, the ceremony will go by in a flash. Make sure your photographer catches all these essential moments so you can remember them forever.
Following on from the end of your wedding ceremony, as newlyweds you’ll probably want some images alone, so arrange some time to have ‘couple only’ shots directly after your wedding ceremony but before your wedding reception.
Your family and close friends are likely to have played a key role in your wedding planning and on this day especially, so this is a great opportunity to capture some precious photos both parties will want to keep.
But please do bear in mind that these can go on forever. The answer? Be very specific with your photographer regarding group images that you’d like captured; to ensure that there is enough time between the ceremony and when you sit down for the wedding breakfast. Note: You can also take these before the ceremony.
You would have spent hours organising your wedding reception, so add table decorations, centrepieces, the table plan, wedding favours, the cake on its own and any other details that you’d like photographed to the list.
But above all don't forget to enjoy the day!