Tips for Capturing Beautiful Wedding Details
When it comes to wedding day photos, some couples prefer to breeze through the details, while others cherish every element being beautifully captured. Regardless of your preference, here are some valuable tips to help your photographer capture stunning detailed shots for you. This is valuable information that I frequently discuss during pre-consultation or wedding planning calls. I've chosen to make it publicly accessible on my website for everyone's benefit.
1. Save the Date & Invitation
It's a simple yet effective step – bring your Save the Date and invitation. You can also choose to mail them directly to me. These items offer wonderful versatility for detailed shots. I usually ask brides to place these items in a ziplock bag, ensuring they stay pristine and protected from any unexpected rain or spills. I offer various stamps and wax presses to enhance the photos, but please don't hesitate to bring the envelope, the complete invitation suite, and any other items you'd like documented, such as day-of handouts, menus, timelines, and more.
2. Communicate Details with Your Photographer
Communication is key! Discussing your wedding day and its unique details can make a significant difference. Do you have pockets in your wedding dress? Show them to me! Is your new last name stitched in somewhere? Let me know! Planning a delightful donut wall? Share all the details beforehand! The more I know, the better prepared I can be to capture those special moments.
Gifting cufflinks to a groom not only presents a thoughtful and lasting keepsake but also adds a touch of sophistication to the groom's attire.
3. Handwritten Vows or Love Notes
One of my personal favorites is when couples exchange handwritten notes or vows. It adds an intimate touch to your day. You can keep it simple with white paper or opt for a charming vow booklet. Handwritten notes not only lead to emotional and heartwarming shots but also provide a lasting sentimental keepsake for the years to come. If you're exchanging traditional vows during the ceremony, consider sharing private vows just between the two of you to exchange more intimate words and moments.
4. Splurge on a Hanger (or Not!)
Some clients opt for a customized dress hanger with a wire name, while others keep it simple with a wooden hanger. Whichever choice you make, I always have a backup wooden hangers ready. After all, nothing distracts from a stunning dress shot more than a plastic hanger!
5. Keep the Rings Together
This tip is more about making my job easier. If possible, have the wedding bands together in the morning. This allows me to capture detailed shots of the rings and ensures they make it to the right hands during the ceremony. Don't forget the ring boxes; they can help protect and keep track of the rings! Plus, they often add a sentimental touch to your photos. I also have extra dishes and ring boxes to help capture your rings in detail.
6. Thoughtful Flowers
Flowers are a beautiful but sometimes underestimated aspect of a wedding. There are various approaches to floral details. Some brides go all out, while others opt for a bouquet just for themselves. Regardless of your choice, ensure the floral arrangement reflects your style and vision. Consider options like wooden flowers, choosing seasonal blooms, or minimizing unnecessary floral details. Trust me; this can make your day smoother and more enjoyable. I've witnessed some couples incorporate specific flowers to symbolize their hobbies, like foraging or using locally sourced blooms. Additionally, some brides have entrusted their floral-savvy friends to grow or arrange the flowers.
7. Personalized Details
Incorporate personalized and meaningful details into your wedding setup. Items like custom monogrammed napkins, handcrafted signage, or family heirlooms can add a unique touch to your photos, making them even more special and personal.
8. Trust in Your Photographer
Photographers often have an array of tools at their disposal to elevate and capture the beauty of your wedding day details. When planning your wedding day schedule, setting aside approximately 30 minutes for dedicated detail shots is highly recommended. You can efficiently delegate this task to your photographers while you're engaged in hair and makeup or during the getting-ready process. Among the items we have available are chiffon ribbons, vintage stamps, and wax presses, locally-sourced Michigan dishware, ring boxes, spare envelopes, acrylic clear boxes, Scrabble pieces, and more.
Arguably the most crucial piece of advice is to relax and savor every moment of your wedding day. When you're stress-free and truly enjoying yourself, it naturally shines through in your photos. Place your trust in your photographer to capture those moments, and wholeheartedly embrace the joy of the day.
By incorporating these additional tips, you're setting the stage for your wedding photos to not only preserve the intricate details but also encapsulate the genuine emotions and the true essence of your special day.
