Frequently Asked Questions

I’ve experienced and learned many things photographing weddings in the past 15 years, so here are a few tips and suggestions to help your day run smoothly! I’d love to help you plan, coordinate, and collaborate from engagement to wedding end!

Hair and Make-up

This has a 5 out of 5 chance to run late and into the start of shooting time, so plan to be finished one hour sooner. The bride shouldn’t go last as we can start with touch-up, candids, and the girls in robes before getting you into the dress.

Keep the room tidy as this will make for much better pictures.

When I first arrive I will shoot all your details, flowers, shoes, rings, invitations, and your dress. If you have everything out and together, that will be super helpful.

Plan for at least one hour of bridal prep.

The Guys

I typically cover the guys while the bride is getting into her dress if we’re at the same location, otherwise I will meet you at the ceremony location a little early.

Boutonnieres are good to have at the getting ready location and are usually a challenge to put on, as well as bow ties that need tying…good things to look up prior to wedding day.

First Look

This helps with getting couple, bridal party, and immediate family pictures covered prior to ceremony. I suggest starting the day three hours before ceremony time, otherwise at least two hours prior with no first look.

Family Formals

When properly organized, group portraits can be done beautifully and quickly so that your families can go off and have fun! I recommend having a designated family member from each side help corral your family, also please have a picture list of names that someone can call out for us.

Wedding Party Photos

Quality over quantity for wedding party pictures. It’s better to take time in one location rather than trying to move large groups around.

Couple's Portraits

We usually have time for two or three sessions, depending on first look. A few after ceremony and then again close to sunset, so best to schedule that into the timeline.

The Reception

I will follow the timeline we have coordinated and stay flexible with how the flow of the evening goes. Sometimes things get moved around because they make more sense in the moment but I will always be in touch.

Dinner & Toasts

Toasts and speeches usually happen towards the end of dinner and the first item on the evening’s agenda that should stay on time.

Table Visits

After dinner, couples sometimes like to visit tables and greet their guests. I will typically cover this as candids unless you want to set up pictures. I will keep you moving along as this can run long. We had a new idea recently where if buffet dinner, the DJ will dismiss tables one at a time having them stop at your table for a quick visit and photo, a much better picture option in my opinion!

Have Fun!

The best piece of advice in this wedding guide I can give you is to forget about the camera. Take in every moment you can and remember this is your day to enjoy to the fullest. Focus on each other and your loved ones that have come to celebrate with you!