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10 Wedding Photographer TipsTen ways to work well with your photographer

Wedding photos are the keepsake you'll have the longest. A little preparation on your end goes a long way toward getting the shots you actually wanted.

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The Checklist

Ten tips,from behind the camera

01

Communicate clearly

Talk through your expectations, preferences and any special requests before the wedding — the style you want and the key moments to catch, so your photographer can actually prepare for them.

02

Make a must-have shot list

List the essential shots — specific people, decor details, the first look, the vows — and share it well ahead of time.

03

Consider a pre-wedding shoot

An engagement session gets you comfortable in front of the camera, builds rapport with your photographer, and shows them your best angles before the big day.

04

Plan your schedule with light in mind

If natural light matters to you, ask your photographer about the best times. Golden hour — near sunrise and sunset — gives the softest, most flattering light.

05

Assign a photo coordinator

Pick a trusted family member or friend who knows everyone, to help gather people quickly for group shots so nobody's missing and nothing drags.

06

Keep locations in mind

If you want a particular backdrop, talk it through with your photographer and make sure there's time built in to get there and set up.

07

Trust your photographer

You hired them for their eye — give them room to catch spontaneous moments and compose shots with their own judgment.

08

Keep everyone on the same page

Make sure your wedding party and family know the photo schedule — when and where they're needed — to keep things moving.

09

Keep an emergency kit handy

Touch-up makeup, stain remover, safety pins — small fixes for small mishaps, so everyone still looks their best.

10

Have fun

Relax and actually enjoy the day. Natural, joyful expressions are what make the best photos.

Bride putting on her earrings while getting ready
Kelly & Ezra · Aria at The Whitcomb, St. Joseph →
Photo and video

One team,for both

Every tip above gets easier when your photographer and filmmaker are the same team. Tell us about your day and we'll tell you how we'd cover it.

Bride and groom embracing during their first dance in a chandelier-lit barn
Next Guide

How to Get the Most Out of Your Wedding Videographer

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