Bride Allison straight slaying at her Rush Creek Lodge Yosemite wedding.
Embrace surprises and the unexpected
Much in life and marriage is like our wedding day. We may not always be prepared for changes or surprises, but we have to roll through every event as a strong and powerful duo. Whether that means a scheduling mishap, running behind schedule, bad weather, forgotten items or hungover groomsmen, don’t let anything spoil your attitude and the joy of your day.
Allow Enough Time
30 min to an hour should be scheduled into the day for the bride and groom’s portraits. The longer the better, in my opinion. The portrait session can create an unexpected “scheduled” time for being (mostly) alone with your partner, and a pleasant retreat from the stimulus of the event. And so for this reason, having designated alone time will never be time wasted.
Outdoor ceremonies
Early evening light, the few hours before sundown, is fantastic for gorgeous glowing light, and reduces harsh shadows caused by high, direct sunshine. If you do not of the leisure of planning your portraits at this time - seek out some shade for soft, even light which most flatters the face.
Posture
Do what your momma told you! Stand straight! No slouching - an upright posture makes you appear healthy, strong and confident. And be sure to remind your partner, too!
Relax your mind
The emotions will be raging like a whirlwood come wedding day. A calm and present mind will not only sooth your psyche, but remove any hints of nervousness or distraction in your face once it’s time to take portraits.
Do a hair and makeup trial
This is imperative! You want to LOVE how you look, and make sure you will be presenting exactly how you envision. There are no do-overs on this day, and feeling self conscious because of a styling mishap is not something you want to look back on.
Consider Shooting a First Look
A non-conventional “first look” will be an excellent opportunity to catch the raw response to seeing your partner for the very first time. This may also be a good chance to schedule your portraits before the ceremony instead of afterwards. So, you get two opportunities to relax and put your best face forward. Highly recommend.
Show real emotion
“Fake it til you make it” should NOT apply to your wedding photos. You don’t want a plastic smile, you want looks of pure joy! Don’t focus on the photographer, focus on your partner and you won’t be able to stop smiling and laughing. Be playful with each other. You’ll love the results.
Trust your photographer
Have you considered doing an engagement shoot before the wedding? This allows you to build rapport with your photographer and getting a better feel for how to work together. Come wedding day, this should be a breeze! You should (hopefully) already know and trust one another. Follow their lead, and you will be sure to have the memories you will love for a lifetime.
