5 things things to let your wedding photographer know. (Questions they may ask.)

Recently I was given the chance to photograph a wedding, and I think I took the bride by surprise when I started to ask her a few questions so I could get a better understanding and picture of what she was wanting. The following questions are a few that photographers might ask you, or that you need to let your photographer know about.

1. Are you having any bridesmaids or groomsman? How many?

This may seem like a strange question, because you assume they will have at least a few, however this is not always the case, and asking this question helps to mentally prepare you for the wedding, as well as be able to picture some poses ahead of time. This question can also be extended to "flower girl(s), ring bearer?".

2. Are there any "must have" photos you want? Is there one photo in particular you’ve been envisioning?

The bride may have a particular pose she has seen on Pintrest, something they wanted to get for their engagement photos but didn't, or a prop she'd like you to use. Make sure you understand her vision as well as your own. This is the couples special day, make sure they have the photographic memories they'd like to have as well as the family/couple/candid shots. Along with this, see if there are any specific locations at the wedding, or reception they want photos to be done in.

3. Are you doing a "first look"?

First look photos are meant to be intimate and personal for the bride and groom, and are steadily becoming more popular. Make sure you ask the couple if they are planning on this, or would prefer to be more traditional, and wait for walking down the aisle. If they are doing a first look, you need to make sure you can find a private spot away from the rest of the wedding, and chaos, for this. Give yourself time to find the perfect spot for the couple.

4. Who's important?

This seems strange, since the important people are all your guests since you invited them, but what if you end up taking too many photos of Uncle Bob, and not enough of great grandma? Make sure you know who is important, and that these photos of them will be cherished. Don't just assume, observe, and if you're not sure, clarify with your bride. This is especially true if the couple has children!

5. What should I wear? What are your colors?

Dress clean, nice, professional! But you also need to make sure that the bride doesn't want you in specific colors to match her wedding. You wouldn't want to show up to a rustic cowboy wedding, in a three piece suit, so make sure you have a clear understanding of the theme, and how she would like you to apeear.