CHEAT SHEET FOR BRIDES

  • Plan for Timely Hair and Makeup

    Schedule hair and makeup early enough to allow time for portraits before the ceremony. Ensure that your makeup artist leaves extra touch-up products for later in the day.

  • Bring Comfortable Shoes for Portraits

    While you may want to wear your wedding shoes during the ceremony, consider bringing a comfortable pair of shoes for your bridal portraits to help you move around easily.

  • Have a Dedicated Bridesmaid or Person for Assistance

    While I will have an assistant on hand, it’s helpful for the bride to have a dedicated bridesmaid or trusted person to assist with fixing and adjusting her dress, veil, and accessories throughout the photo sessions. This ensures everything is styled to her liking and ready for each shot.

  • Consider Your Timeline

    Be sure to leave enough time between your ceremony and reception for family portraits, bridal party photos, and romantic couple shots. Rushed timelines can lead to missed opportunities.

  • Ensure Good Lighting

    Natural light is ideal for wedding photos. Consider booking spaces with lots of windows.

Account for Commute Time in the Timeline

When creating the timeline for your wedding day, be sure to factor in the commute time between venues. Time spent traveling can quickly add up, and it's essential to stay on schedule to ensure enough time for each part of your day, especially for photos.

  • Keep Your Family in the Loop

    Inform your family about the photo schedule so they’re prepared for their moments in front of the camera and can help keep the flow going.

  • Create a Shot List

    Work with your photographer to create a shot list that includes key moments and groupings you want to capture. This can include family portraits, bridal party shots, and special moments like first dances, to ensure nothing important is missed.

  • Designate a Clean Room for Pre-Ceremony Portraits

    Ensure there is a specific room, like the bridal suite, that is clean and uncluttered for your pre-ceremony bridal portraits. This will create a calm and beautiful setting for your photos.

  • Limit the Number of People in the Room

    Keep the number of people in the room to a minimum during your pre-ceremony portraits to reduce distractions and help you stay relaxed and focused. This also allows your photographer to capture more intimate and serene moments.

  • Schedule Family and Bridal Party Portraits First

    Plan to take family and bridal party portraits first, allowing them to return to the reception space or their vehicles afterward. This will give you and your partner some private time to focus on your couple’s portraits without distractions, capturing more intimate and romantic moments.