Great Tips for Brides
Portfolios
Exposure
Behind-the-scene Queen
Choose a photo pro who you feel extremely comfortable with and don't mind inviting backstage. Some of the most beautiful wedding moments happen while the bride is dressing or during the reception when the couple steals away for a kiss. Keep your photographer aware of your whereabouts at (almost) all times.
Pick a Perfect Package
Some photography packages include albums, prints, and digital negatives, but many don't. Talk about each package's perks and try to narrow down your must-have items. Once you do it will be easy to create your own custom package.
Share the Wealth
Allow friends and family to order prints directly from your photographer: This is easy if your photographer uses a service like pictage.com to post your wedding photos. You can email guests a link to your online album, and they can order prints directly, without having to go through you.
The ALBUM
The wedding album should tell the story of the day beautifully. If possible, ask to see an actual wedding book as opposed to a compilation album with only their best work. Ask yourself if the photographer was able to capture the mood of the day.
Do it Yourself Albums
If you choose to make your own album be careful not to put your pictures in low quality albums that may damage them over time. Look for "archival" or "acid-free" on the label.
Must-haves
Don't overwhelm your photographer with many must-take shots. Instead, create a wish list of your top 5.
Beware the Bait and Switch
Some contracts spell out the studio's right to send any staff photographers to your wedding -- don't sign if that's not okay with you.
Black-and-white Benefit
Plain and simple, black-and-white photography is preferred for documenting emotional moments. The fewer colors your eyes have to process, the cleaner and easier an image is to absorb when viewing. The result? The subject shines through!
A Tip on Tipping
Know this: It's totally optional. That said, a monetary "thank you" is always graciously received. Estimate $50 to $100 (depending on the length of the work day).
Rain, Rain Go Away
Don't let the weather ruin your wedding day -- use it to your advantage! If it rains, grab two big umbrellas, go outside, and shoot pictures in the rain. Black-and-white shots of a couple kissing under one umbrella with delicate raindrops creating puddles at their feet are very romantic. Plan ahead and have classic black oversized umbrellas on hand.
Details
Don't forget about all the big and small things that went into making your perfect day. Each detail from the cake to the napkins help tell your story. Make sure your photographer knows what items are really important to you before the big day.
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