Wedding photography is not just about capturing beautiful moments between the bride and groom. There are many other people involved, and it is our responsibility as photographers to make sure everyone feels included and special. As a professional wedding photographer, we prioritize our clients and their guests. We want them to have the best experience on their wedding day. Here are some tips + tricks that we use to help the day run smoothly.

Ask about any tricky family dynamics

One of the most important things you can do is to ask about any tricky family dynamics in your pre-wedding questionnaire. This way, you are not blindsided on wedding day, and the couple feels like you have their back. For example, if there are divorced parents who hate each other or a girlfriend who insists on being in every family photo even though she’s only been dating the brides brother for a month, you can be prepared and find ways to solve the problem without any hassle.

First Look with Bridesmaids

If possible, we always try to do the first look with bridesmaids, it’s a great bonding moment for them and helps capture some beautiful giggly moments before things get more serious.

Make Time for Grooms’ Mom

The groom’s mom putting on his boutonniere can be a special moment for her too, so we make sure to capture that. It’s a moment of bonding between mother and son, and it’s important to capture those moments.

Let the Brides’ Mom Watch the First Look with Dad

While capturing the first look between the bride and groom, make sure to let the bride’s mom watch too. This not only gives her a chance to see her daughter in her wedding dress before anyone else but also gives her a special moment to cherish.

Nice Photos with Immediate Family

Pulling aside parents and siblings for some nice photos with their partners when you have a spare minute is also a great way to show that they are important to you. It's easy to get swept up in the excitement of the day, but taking a few precious minutes to capture these memories can mean so much.

Have a plan with Wedding Party Posing

Having a plan for the wedding party posing is important as well. It keeps things quick and efficient, so the wedding party isn’t waiting around for too long. Once the posing is done, let them bring roadies with them when moving locations. This will help keep the energy and mood high, especially if it’s a long day of shooting.

Group Photos with Parents and Friends

At the end of the reception when you have enough dance shots, ask the parents if they want any group photos with their friends. These little moments can make such a big difference, and it shows that you’re thinking about everyone.

As a wedding photographer, our job is not only to capture beautiful moments between the couples but also to make sure everyone involved feels special and included. These tips will help you go above and beyond your basic duties as a photographer and ensure that everyone gets their ‘moment’ on the wedding day. Small gestures go a long way in creating a memorable experience for everyone involved. Putting extra effort into your clients and their guests will undoubtedly gain you repeat businesses and word of mouth bookings. So, don't shy away from the little things that can make a big difference!