4 Things to Tell Your Photographer Before Your Wedding Day

I've learned a lot about weddings. I consider myself to have a wealth of wedding knowledge and am always happy to share what I've learned with clients and even non-clients! However, there are always a few things I won't know until you tell me. Here are 4 of those things:

1. Do you have a side: This one sounds silly, and it may not apply to you, but it's very real for some people. If you have a side (or angle) that you prefer to be photographed from, tell your photographer. For example, if you really don't like how you look when photographed from your left side and you haven't told your photographer, speak up! We can't read your mind. And if, while your photographer is photographing you and it's clear they've forgotten, speak up again! Occasionally, we'll have to photograph you from the other side for various reasons, but make sure we're aware of your preference. 

2. Family situations: This one can be uncomfortable, but it is so important that we, as photographers, know if there's any family drama or unusual circumstances that may influence the way we photograph certain situations. If your parents are divorced and are not amicable, tell us so we don't accidentally ask them to stand next to each other during family portraits! If your grandpa recently passed away and your grandma's been lonely, let us know so we can be extra kind! If you have a family member that's sick, make sure we know so we can take more photos of them than we otherwise would. I know this is all very intimate information, but hopefully you've booked a photographer that you feel comfortable sharing these tidbits of your life with. It'll make things easier for you on the wedding day and you'll be happier with the photos later. 

3. Is there anything special you want photographed: On a wedding day, we're focusing on capturing every single special moment and detail. However, there are certain things that we won't be aware of until you tell us, and if you don't, we might miss it. Some examples of this include: your wedding date embroidered on the inside of your dress, engravings on the inside of your rings, special details that you put a lot of thought into (ie: your table numbers, escort cards or any DIY decor that have a personal touch), the initials on the handkerchief that belonged to your grandmother, the groomsmen's matching socks, that one yellow rose in your bouquet that's there because it was your grandfather's favorite flower. If there's anything that you can think of that's meaningful to you in one way or the other, please tell us ahead of time. I always carry around a printed list of these things with me on your wedding day. By telling us ahead of time, we can both be sure that the things that are most important to you will be photographed. 

4. A very detailed list of every single family photo you'll want: I always have my clients give me a very detailed list of ever single family photo they'll want taken on their wedding day, including their names and relationship to you. Photos on the list can be as small as "bride and mom" and as large as you and your entire maternal family. It can be easy to forget to include someone in family photos on your wedding day, so by creating a list ahead of time, you can make sure you don't forget anyone. This is another thing that I print out ahead of time and carry around with me on your wedding day. This way, I won't need to ask you any questions about who you want in what photo. The family portrait process becomes extremely efficient, which helps make the most of you and your guests' time.

Is there something else you feel is important to tell your photographer before your wedding day? Was this list helpful? Let me know below! If you have additional questions about what you should tell your photographer before your wedding day, reach out through my Contact page or email me directly at janine@janinelicarephotography.com. I'm always happy to answer any questions that come my way!