Question 1

My partner's extremely camera shy so I'm worried about our photos not looking natural. What advice can you share and how can you help with that on the day?

Accepted Answer

My advice would be to hire a photographer that's fun and that has great people skills. I'd certainly suggest to meet your photographer a few times before the big day to form a relationship and get to know each other and to also discuss your thoughts and expectations. You could even plan an engagement shoot to get used to being in front of the camera beforehand. It's important to remember that the best photos come from the natural moments, that aren't staged or posed. A good photographer will disappear into the background so you'll forget they're even there snapping away! If you do feel nervous about the camera pointing in your direction, try and have a joke or a laugh with your partner, take a deep breath, relax, forget what's going on around you and simply be you!

Question 2

What should we consider before booking a photographer?

Accepted Answer

• Do you like their work? Don't just decide based on price, have you seen a wide selection of their work from different weddings. • Do you get on with the photographer? You could be spending approx 10 hours with them depending on your requirements and if there's no connection between you it could be an unwanted partnership, make sure your personalities connect. • Have you seen reviews and testimonials from previous couples to see what they have previously done? • Are they receptive to your ideas or shoot the style of work you want from your photographer? • Know what you want from your photographer, do they shoot the style you want, do they provide you with the images you want, can they accommodate your needs to ensure you have a wonderful day? • Do they have the resources to ensure there are no loss of images or damage to equipment during the day? • Are they insured? • How long have they been shooting weddings? • Don't over complicate booking your photographer, select a few whose work you like then find the one you get on with so you can trust them on the day to give you beautiful images and tell your story. • To avoid being disappointed once you have found your photographer, book them! I have seen a few very disappointed couples who wanted to book me but left it too late, someone else had then booked me and their desired date has gone. • Hire someone you can trust and then trust them to give you the images you want so you can enjoy the day and look back at the memories after with their beautiful images.

Question 3

Our wedding is near a beach, and we'd love to visit to get some wonderful photographs, but I'm worried about ruining my dress or it being too windy! Do you have any ideas of how we can achieve this?

Accepted Answer

If you're getting married on or near a beach, then lucky you! You must take full advantage and get those all-important beach shots. Don't worry about sand on your dress, it will brush off, and any wind or breeze will only add drama to the image. You don't have to touch the sand; you can do what you're comfortable with. You can position yourself on the sidewalk or pier or even balance on some rocks. My only advice would be for the bride not to do this in heels. A nice pair of flats on the beach will make it all the more comfortable and enjoyable. Remember, the most important thing is to have fun in your photos.

Question 4

What are your suggestions for capturing creative night-time shots?

Accepted Answer

Start by looking for a photographer with a varied portfolio of night-time images. They should be able to talk you through how each one was achieved, and what equipment they will bring with them to the wedding. It's worth checking if they can offer a pre-wedding shoot. If so, try and arrange it at night so you can get a taste of what your big-day portraits will look like. Think about whether your venue allows for creative night-time images and what time of shots you're looking for, such as sunsets, silhouettes etc.

Question 5

We've just got engaged and are planning to get married in 2024. When should we start looking for a photographer?

Accepted Answer

If you've booked your wedding venue, then it's never too early to start booking suppliers, especially your photographer. Be aware that the time of year that you're getting married will depend on the demand for your chosen supplier. May through to September will always be busiest, with lots of clients booking a year to 18 months in advance. As always, make sure you choose wisely. Get a good feel from your photographer and make sure their style suits you. When you do come to book, a holding fee or a deposit is all that is generally required to secure your date.

Question 6

A friend of ours had two photographers on their wedding day. What are the benefits of this, and should we do the same?

Accepted Answer

For my personal approach to photography, which is quite documentary, I tend to work alone and blend in with the guests. However, having two photographers really does depend on the number of guests and location. For a small intimate wedding with everything in one location, two photographers can be overwhelming, but they can be beneficial for larger weddings or those that take place across multiple locations. Having two photographers means one can be with the bride and one with the groom for the morning preparations. During the ceremony, you will have coverage from two angles, usually one from the back of the ceremony room and one at the front. This can give a great view of both the bride and groom's reaction when they first see each other at the aisle. It's also great for the ring exchange and first kiss. During the reception one photographer can focus on the family and group pictures, whilst the other can take relaxed guest photos. Similarly, during the speeches, the room can be split between the two photographers to try to capture all of the guests' reactions. Have a chat with your photographer, and they will be able to help guide you on what would work best for your big day.

FAQs and expert advice about photography