Getting the most out of your wedding portraits
One thing I hear more than anything else when couples book is ‘we’re not very good at having our picture taken’, or something very similar. And I completely understand; it’s daunting to be in front of the camera. It’s not something most of do very often, aside from the odd holiday selfie, and our relationship with our self-image can often be complicated, so is often something to be approached gently.
Whether it’s your wedding day, or a portrait session, one of my goals is to help you feel as at home as possible in front of the camera. To not make that portion of the day feel like something you did because you had to, but a memorable and enjoyable moment in itself. And there are a few tips I’ve picked up along the way that I think can be helpful in helping you get there.
Reframe the narrative
It may sound silly, but don’t think about the photos. When I lead you away for a few moments, whether it’s during the drinks reception or a little later on, it’s a moment alone with your brand new spouse – something few and far between on a typical wedding day. It’s a moment to catch up, catch your breath, and take in how the day is unfolding together. Let’s take a walk, you can chat and every now and again I’ll gently adjust how you’re stood, but if you’re daunted by the idea of photos directly, then let them be secondary to a lovely moment of solitude with your partner. See it as a catch up with your best pal (where I just happen to be subtly hiding in a hedge somewhere nearby).
Split the session
Having a couple of ten minute sessions throughout the day is a good way to feel like you’re not away from the party for too long. It makes for different lighting, different backdrops, and often means less pressure.
Engagement sessions
Engagement sessions mean you not only get more beautiful photos of the two of you together at this moment in life, but they mean time. Time to learn how the two of you are comfortable, time to play with poses that might feel silly and see how they look, and time to get to know your photographer so that you’re even more relaxed in their presence.
Trust your photographer
My goal with portraits – aside from giving you something beautiful to frame and look back on over the years – is to show you how happy, how in love you look on your favourite of days. Even if being in front of the camera feels a little strange, or awkward, trust that I’m not taking photos where you look awkward. Trusting your photographer is trusting them to read the light, read the room – do you need a breather, or is now a good time for photos? Finding the balance between getting the shot and getting you back to your celebration. If they come to you and ask for a couple of minutes, it’s likely because they have something special in mind – and that trust helps them create it.
Later in the day
Taking a moment later on in your day often makes for photos where you’re more relaxed – the day is unfolding, the magic is happening, and the parts of the day you’ve been daydreaming about for years (!) are often done – speeches might be out the way, the ceremony went off without a hitch, family have been wrangled for photos, and it’s often easier to relax in front of the camera when you’re more relaxed in general. It also mixes up the light a little, we can mix up the backgrounds, add variety to your gallery and embrace all that your space has to offer.
Embrace the light
have a little flexibility in your schedule to be able to head for a walk when the light is best – good lighting instantly elevates your photos. It’s flattering, dramatic, and if you have the opportunity to leave space for a few golden hour portraits – if the British weather allows – there’s a lovely warmth to them.
