The typical on-location wedding that I conduct lasts about 20 minutes. To the couple, it will seem like an instant. They rely on the wedding photography to remember the moment in the years to come. I work very closely with photographers to ensure that the best memories are captured.
Most experienced photographers have run into the church minister, who often decrees that no photographs are to be taken during the ceremony. The couple may get one or two furtively taken photos of their ceremony. Unfortunately, some of the best moments where the couple commit to each other and show the emotional bond between them will be lost.
I take the position that I need to work closely with the photographers so that all the best memories can be captured. I want it to be a picture perfect wedding. Therefore, to many photographers’ surprise, I make it a priority to plan the wedding shots with them. They are so grateful that I take the time to include them so that the couple will have cherished photos of the ceremony.
Over the years, I learned the following really helps capture the special moments:
I tell the photographers what’s happening. This is a simple practice that I do just before the wedding starts. I go through the ceremony, highlighting special events, such as readers or rituals like the Unity Sand Ceremony. Then they know what is coming up. I also give them the cues for key times in the ceremony, like when the couple will kiss.
I work with them on the visuals. On-location weddings can offer some challenges for photography. I work with them to ensure we have the best light for the couple and a suitable background. I want to ensure we have the best possible shot available. Before the ceremony starts, I ask them about all the angles that will be best and adapt what I can for them.
There are no threesomes in my wedding ceremony photos. In most wedding photos, you see the minister in the background during the kiss. Sometimes, the photographer will be clever and hide the minister behind the groom. All these are awkward compromises. I instruct the couple to hold the kiss for ten seconds, and then I just step out of the way. The result is a beautiful photo of the couple’s first kiss at the wedding ceremony. By the way, no tongue, groping or tipping allowed. Just a nice embrace and smooch.
The feedback I get from couples is phenomenal. The photographers love that I cooperate with them to make their job easier. The bride and groom are so appreciative of the attention that has been placed on making their day memorable and picture perfect.
