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1. Do I need a second photographer?
This is the most asked question from potential wedding clients. Every blog and magazine article you read about this topic will take a stance on this subject. Some will say “It’s a must”. After all, things often take place at the exact same time during your wedding day. Others will say “Save your money”. How are you supposed to decide? Here is my take – No one ‘needs’ a second photographer, but it’s important to think about things taking place at the same time and if you want those captured or not. I’ve done it both ways and prefer to work with a second photographer, but I’m capable of working without one. Like everything in life, it all boils down to your priorities.
- Do I want photos of us both getting ready at the same time in different locations?
- Do I want BOTH reactions during a first look documented?
- Do I want photos of me walking down the aisle AND his reaction?
- Do I want photos of our vows AND our parents reactions?
- Do I want wide angles of the ceremony?
- Do I want photos of cocktail hour while my bridal party is finishing up photos?
- Do I want candid photos of the toast AND those being toasted?
Choosing a package that includes a second photographer ensures these simultaneous and equally important events are well documented. Also, a second shooter can provide you with more images and a different perspective. It all boils down to if you’re willing to pass up on some of these shots.
2. Should we do a “first look”? And, um, what the heck is a “first look”?
The first look is a chance for wedding couples to see each other privately before the ceremony. Two-thirds of my clients currently opt to do a first look. It’s a great chance to get the wedding jitters out and spend a few minutes alone together. I find that first look photos tend to be some of my favorites. It’s a real moment with raw emotions. Honestly, it’s also a great way to avoid stress on your wedding day and many of my couples get to enjoy their whole cocktail hour because they got all of the photos out of the way before the wedding.
3. Should we have an “unplugged wedding”? And, what is an “unplugged wedding”?
An unplugged wedding is where you and your guests unplug from the world, be it your phone, iPad, camera, or any other technology that is around. Camera phones, ipads and selfie sticks are ruining opportunities for your photographer to capture priceless moments during your ceremony. Many professional photographers have started to include a clause in their contract that addresses missing important shots due to guest interference I.e. Uncle Bob stepping in front of camera during first kiss. Here are the pros and cons of disconnected weddings.
PROS: You have hired a professional photographer to capture your day. Think about why you want your guests to be there. An unplugged wedding is about enjoying the moment, looking down the aisle to see your friends and family looking back, seeing their emotion, seeing them smile, feeling the love vs seeing your guests hiding behind a phone screen.
CONS: Remember: wedding guests take photos because they want to be able to re-live and share the experience of the day. If you’re considering an unplugged wedding, you should commit to sharing photos with guests.
