There are several things you can do to create an optimal atmosphere for your wedding photography.  By incorporating some of the following suggestions into your planning, you can dramatically impact the opportunity for great images of your wedding.  These suggestions are presented in chronological order for the day of your wedding.  However, some of the planning and preparation may need to take place months in advance.

Getting ready: If your photographer will be documenting you and the bridal party getting ready, there are several ways you can maximize the opportunity for great photos.  Discuss your schedule with your photographer.  Hair and make-up sessions present plenty of opportunities for sentimental moments with your friends and loved ones.  Discuss your comfort level for being photographed in the dressing room.  Most photographers are respectful and discreet, however it could be very uncomfortable if your photographer is unaware that you do not want to be photographed while changing.  Also, it is best if the bride is the last member of the bridal party to get dressed.  When the mother of the bride or bridesmaids are wearing T-shirts or sweat suits while helping the bride into her gown, the photo lacks a uniformity that is more pleasing to the eye.  Another detriment to photos in the dressing room is clutter.  Ask your attendants to keep the dressing room tidy by putting their belongings away as they are finished getting ready.  Just folding and stacking clothing and other belongings neatly can make a major difference.  If possible, when designating dressing rooms for the women and men, choose rooms with some windows for natural light. 

The ceremony: If your ceremony is inside and there are restrictions for flash, your photographer should coordinate with the church staff to ensure the lighting is adequate as well as confirm if and when flash may be used.  If you plan to have formal portraits taken with family and the bridal party prior to or following the ceremony, provide your photographer with a list of the groups and refer to them by their relationship to you: i.e. – bride’s parents and siblings; maternal grandparents, etc.

Post-ceremony photo shoot:  After the ceremony and formal portraits, the bride and groom, and sometimes the wedding party, can relocate for a post-ceremony photo shoot while the rest of the wedding guests move on to the cocktail hour/reception.  During this time your wedding photographer can become more interactive in creating powerful images of you and your newly married spouse.  The photographer will suggest poses in the location of your choice and that location can play a major role in setting the mood.  It should reflect your style, so it is good to talk with your photographer about scouting locations that appeal to you and are accessible within your timeframe.  After all, the time you spend traveling to and from your post-ceremony photo shoot adds to the length of time your guests will be waiting at the reception.  If you’re traveling in a limo, invite your photographer along for the ride for some exclusive photos that help to tell the story of your day.  It’s not always necessary to travel; sometimes the location of the ceremony or reception presents a unique opportunity for nearby photography inside or outside.  Another consideration is the timing of outdoor post-ceremony photo shoots or any other outdoor photographs for that matter.  The best time for this to occur is early evening through dusk. 

Reception: Your photographer can work with your DJ for the timing of the introduction of the bridal party, dances, toasts, cake cutting, etc.  This is the time where you can finally unwind!  Enjoy yourself—this is a great time for candid photos of you and your guests.