You'll need a space with good, natural light. When looking at venues, try to find a accommodating spaces that are well lit with the curtains open without interior lights. Think big windows, high ceilings and light colored walls.
If you start getting your hair and makeup done before I get there, try to sit near a window.
Hotel rooms are typically pretty dark with lots of distractions, so I would look into finding a cute AirBnb to get ready in. They're really affordable and will give you a much more open and aesthetically pleasing space.
We’ll completely respect your decision no matter what you choose, but there are a couple of reasons we’re big proponents of a First Look: You get to spend more time with each other on your wedding day. You’re able to talk, hug, cry, laugh, and also give you the opportunity to enjoy your cocktail hour. And often, our couples find that seeing each other allows the rest of the day to feel less stressful because they’re reminded of what matters most — their relationship.
When planning your schedule, it's important to include enough time for the "formal" photos. It's typically best to add a little bit of extra time in case things run behind (they almost always do). Photos of the two of you will typically take about 20-30 minutes, wedding party photos around 20 minutes, and family photos about 15-20 minutes.
Formal family photos are very important but I try to make them as quick and painless as possible. I also recommend doing them before the ceremony! I can't tell you how many times they've been challenging because people cant be found after the ceremony because of cocktail hour. If everyone is there and ready to go before the ceremony, no distracting cocktails will be calling their name!
One last thing: If you would like photos at sunset (Which I definitely recommend! Super dreamy!), please include a 15-minute time block in your timeline for that.
Make sure you chat with church officials and understand any potential restrictions on in-church photography. Know what you're getting into if great ceremony photos are important to you. Some churches only allow photography taken from the back of the church, which means, no shots of your expressions, while some churches allow no photography at all.
Light often plays a key factor in the how outdoor ceremony shots turns out, regardless of season. For summer weddings, it's good to avoid peak afternoon hours (12-4pm, usually) when light is harsh and temperatures run high. Ideal "golden-hour" light is town hours before sunset. Keep in mind the sun sets later in summer. If a golden hour ceremony doesn't work for your schedule, try to find a venue with open shade. When in doubt contact me for advice!
Reception lighting can make or break the character and beauty of reception imagery. Bistro, hanging lights and AMBER up-lighting provide beautiful flattering warm glow. I use a combination of flashes and not when shooting reception spaces. Typically i light for formal dances and recommend doing parent dances before your first dance! This helps me work out any challenges before the two of you have your first dance.
