In striving for the best possible results, please consider the tips on this page. 

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Important Suggestions - Please review this page for a few tips that may help to make your wedding run more smoothly. Don't worry, there are no rules, and I can handle most any circumstance...but from the many years and hundreds of weddings and events I have photographed, I have put together a few suggestions. 

In striving for the best possible results, please consider the following. 

-          Wedding coordinator/planner. Although it is not necessary to have a planner prior to the wedding day, it is of critical importance to have a designated coordinator for the day of the wedding for the facilitation of the various events and complex aspects of the wedding day. It is highly recommended that this designated person be very familiar with the wedding process, and if at all possible, somebody who has no other function at the wedding. Recognizing the tremendous expenses involved, and the need to save where possible, an effective wedding planner could make the difference between a hectic, stressful wedding, and a smooth, enjoyable experience.

-          Other photographers. While this photographer is NOT concerned about other photographers taking pictures, it is of paramount importance that others do NOT try to take the exact same shot as I do. The single most dominant factor is the time delay in waiting for others to complete their shots. A secondary factor is the significant chance of people looking away for the official formal shot, especially with children who are easily confused as to where to look for the shot. Please assist by letting known family photographers know in advance to please focus on shots that I am NOT taking. Due to the unique aspects of this digital technology, you will easily be able to share all of my images with anybody you choose. Therefore, it is recommended, that the following statement be placed on invitations: “Feel free to leave your cameras behind, all pictures will be freely on-line.” And/or on the program: “Please refrain from flash photography during the ceremony. All pictures from the Wedding Photographer will be freely available on-line.”

-          Officiant rules regarding flash photography. The church and/or officiant may have specific rules guiding the use of flash after the formal beginning of the ceremony (traditionally when the father passes the bride off). It is important to clarify with the officiant as to what are these rules. If the rules are overly strict, I recommend asking for flexibility by allowing for the LIMITED use of flash by the primary photographer. Placing the statement from above on the program will assist in reducing unnecessary flashing from the paparazzi of photographers flashing during the ceremony. Even if flash photography IS allowed, absolute discretion is used in using flash only when necessary. Generally, after the ceremony begins, the flash is turned off in favor of alternative measures for low lighting.

-          Lighting. In consideration of the lighting for the ceremony and reception, with photography, the more, the better. While a dark sanctuary may make for a more romantic atmosphere, it will also make for photos with darker backgrounds. Greater ambient lighting (existing room lighting) allows for brighter, more pleasing backgrounds. Greater ambient light also greatly assists for the situations when flash photography is restricted.

-          Wedding party size. Consideration should be given to large wedding parties. Although not a reason to keep from having a large party, additional time should be allowed for group photography before and after the ceremony. Also, consider feasibility and possible arrangements based on the particular ceremony area.

-          Arrangements. When designing the layout during the ceremony, give careful consideration to the photographer’s line of site. People or objects that block the view of the couple will hinder the ability to get close up shots during the ceremony. For the reception, if the “Image Reflection” projection is desired, be sure to include in the set up an extra table for a laptop and projector. In selecting a location for the table, consider a place that is visible to the main seating area of your guests, but also out of the way. Low or selective lighting over the projector screen area is also desirable, if possible.

-          Exiting from the ceremony. In planning the exit procession, be sure to plan a clear path to fully exit the ceremony area, to a remote location allowing guests to leave. The wedding party should be able to re-enter from a second entrance back to the front, with OUT having to cross paths with exiting guests. Communicate with all family to be included in the group shot to start as soon as the wedding couple is able to re-enter the area. We will start first with the largest group shot, dismissing people as we finish with them, working our way down to just the couple. It is imperative that the wedding party be prepared to move in and out of photos quickly to ensure a quick progression to the reception.

-          Reception location. A common choice is to have a reception at a different location. While it is understandable that a reception at the same place as the ceremony may not be possible, it is desirable from a photography standpoint. Although THIS photographer does NOT charge for multiple locations, it does present some logistical equipment challenges as well as time constraints of shooting at two locations. This is particularly important to keep in mind for a 4-hour photography package.

-          Items needed by photographer. Please ensure that the “Traditional Shot List”, as well as itinerary, and if possible, a floor plan, are given to the photographer as soon as possible prior to the wedding day.

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