The wedding day has arrived, and hearts are beating just a little faster than usual. "Butterflies" in the stomach, a nervous glance towards potential pending storm clouds gathering. On arriving at the wedding venue, it is customary for the photographer to announce his/her arrival to the bridal suite for the pre-wedding photo opportunity. Many brides request a photo shoot documenting the preparation of the bride and her bridesmaids, however during these often frantic preparations she may be simply too overwhelmed with anxiety, so close to the wedding ceremony, to go through with it. If the bride does decide to go ahead with photography at this time, it is imperative to be considerate and respectful in your conduct, adding no further pressure. This is a good time to detail photographs of the dress, bouquet, the veil and accessories, these make beautiful anecdotes in the wedding album. Oh and be sure you get a shot of the Jimmy Choo's and Manalo Blahnik's.
Make good use of any time between the preparation photography of bride and bridesmaids by setting up lighting inside the reception venue for formal group portraits. This may not get used but provides an alternative setting should the outdoor option become untenable due to rain, strong winds or even cold wintry weather. Timing is crucial to the smooth running of a wedding thereby preparing the indoor lighting ahead of the arrival of the groom and guests, means no time is lost in the event of moving from an outdoor to an indoor photo session. By making arrangements with the wedding coordinator early on means more time can be freed up to focus on photographing the bridal portrait, father of the bride, the bridesmaids and flower girls.
A good time to get shots of the groom and best man, away from distraction, is before the guests start to arrive. This is also an ideal opportunity to photograph the rings and floral arrangements in detail, you might use any spare moments to document guests arriving. It is advisable to use a prepared list of family and guests for the formal portrait photographs, a copy of which can be given to one of the ushers or someone elected for the task of gathering people for the group shots. Most importantly ensure readiness for the arrival of the bride, there may also be a little time to photograph some bridal party shots before entering the wedding venue.
With regard to church weddings, discuss in advance with the minister any protocol regarding the photography of the ceremony. Nobody likes intrusive or disruptive behaviour and many ministers disallow photography of a religious ceremony. If permission to photograph the ceremony is granted, care and discretion is required so as not to disturb the proceedings, this means not constantly taking pictures paparazzi style and certainly not moving around the church, rather position yourself in readiness to capture the exchanging of rings, the first kiss and the bride and groom as they make their way down the aisle. Take the opportunity to photograph some formal groups before moving on to the reception part of the day.
