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Do I really need to take pictures of this?
Really good photos are pictures that accurately and beautifully capture a moment in time. Making time stand still forever; a real treasure. My walls are fashioned with vintage frames holding precious, precious memories. I often stare at the picture of my handsome husband and I, standing on the beach in Kauai, surrounded by family…. right after we shouted “yes” to forever. My eyes are puffy from bawling the ENTIRE ceremony (seriously…whoops!! ?). This picture takes me back to that moment. First love, newness of marriage, I can even feel a dose of cloud nine just from glancing at the still frame. Something I am SO glad we had professionally documented. Go big with your photos, take engagement shots. Hire someone to take proposal shots. Hire a first-date photographer! (Just kidding, please don’t!!) You will never be able to relive the precious in-between time of engagement or the moment your love got on one knee. Trashing the dress? Another opportunity to make memories that will truly last forever. Think outside the box! My husband was a bit uneasy with the idea of taking engagements (we had two different sessions!!). He is the latter of types I described earlier. “What am I supposed to do?!, why are we doing this?!?, where am I supposed to look?!..” Just a few of his nervous questions as we drove to meet our photographer. Find a photographer that makes you feel COMFORTABLE! I can’t stress this enough. Both photographers that I used for my wedding were extremely professional; they also made us feel completely at ease. They were relaxed themselves, helped us unwind, and guided us through the session. The last thing you want is to feel extra pressure or anxiety from a photographer who you don’t mesh with. Being yourself in photos is very important, so find a photographer who helps you relax!! Maybe share a glass of wine before the shoot to take the edge off?!? As one of my favorite photographers says, “If you love their work but don’t really ‘gel’ with them, forget it. Choose someone else. Most photographers worth their salt will also insist on getting to know you before hand.” Do your research. Most photographers these days have online portfolios you can browse through. Know your price range, but be open! Remember you will have pictures forever.
I highly discourage having a friend be the only one who is taking photos for you at your event. First of all, they are your friend! You want them to enjoy the day and celebrate alongside you! Second of all, they may not produce photos you love and that could make things awkward. Here are a few more tips on why to avoid hiring a friend as your photographer: – When there is not a professional contract and understanding involved, important things can be looked over – What happens if you are not happy with the results of their work? They are a friend after all, how will you complain and or ask for more, or something different (and still remain friends if they get offended?!) – Do they have a back up plan if they get sick or can’t come? If they’re not a professional/working in the industry regularly so wouldn’t have a partner/back up vendor they would use regularly. I have talked to several brides who had a more casual wedding, and they often regret not having professional photos. Just remember, this is a once in a lifetime day, document it!!! Cheers to good photos and the occasional selfie (I’m guilty!) XO, Jeniece
