Question 1

Most photographers offer an engagement shoot, but we're camera shy and don't know if it's for us. What are the benefits?

Accepted Answer

There are many advantages to having an engagement shoot. Photographers usually offer this as an optional extra, and it's a great way to get to know them and learn more about their style. You'll learn what to expect during the day. This will enable you and your partner to be yourselves whilst candid pictures are being created. Use the opportunity to ask any questions, and be sure to let your photographer know what you like and don't like. This will all contribute to a smooth and happy working relationship.

Question 2

My wife-to-be and I are having a December wedding and are worried the weather might ruin our photographs. How can we capture stunning pictures whatever the weather?

Accepted Answer

I can completely understand your concerns, but try not to worry too much. Winter weddings can be fabulous! Think of a dusting of snow, glistening frost on the trees, atmospheric fog and beautiful golden hours, which happen far earlier in the winter and look even more beautiful when you're tightly wrapped up in your partner's arms. Even rain, as long as it's not torrential, can be romantic when snuggled under umbrellas. The other plus point is most wedding venues have their Christmas decorations out by the end of November, so you'll have the twinkle of fairylights or candlelight glistening in the background. Lots of photographers also carry off-camera lighting that can be used to create magical outside evening scenes. If you're worried, chat through your concerns with your supplier, I'm sure they'll be able to share their experiences and some ideas from previous weddings.

Question 3

I'm worried about it being too dark at our wedding to take photographs. How can we capture creative night time shots?

Accepted Answer

Don't let the longer and darker nights deter you from booking an autumn or winter wedding. It's very popular for venues to host twilight nuptials during these months, which cater specifically for these types of celebrations. Your photographer should discuss the types of shots they will be able to capture during the darker months. Always check out their website or portfolio for evidence of their artistry before booking. I always try to make my shots different and creative. Night time shots make for fantastic shadows with an element of romance about them. I use extra lighting to create a glow effect and try and take advantage of any twinkly lights. Capturing worthy shots does come with experience, so make sure your photographer is up to the challenge.

Question 4

My wife-to-be and I are getting married next summer  and would like some shots that reflect the season. Do you have any suggestions?

Accepted Answer

Summer is always a popular season to get married and is a busy time for wedding photographers. A good supplier will always think about their surroundings when taking a shot and incorporate it into their image. Seasons bring so much colour change, and when thinking summer, you automatically think of green grass, blue skies and lots of beautiful flowers in bloom. When booking your venue, take this into account and think does it have an outdoor space where your photographer can take you around and incorporate Mother Nature into your images? You have the advantage of long evenings too, which make for some dusky night photos. Talk to your supplier about the types of shots you want and what you want to be captured. They will always tell you what will and won't work and will consider where the sun is in the sky and take certain types of pictures when the light is just right. Summer weddings will certainly make for gorgeous images, and whilst that sun is setting there are some striking silhouettes and reflection opportunities, and with lots of sunshine, the rays make the shots even more dynamic.

Question 5

There are so many photographers out there – how do we choose the right one for us?

Accepted Answer

There is a huge amount of choice available, and it can feel overwhelming. There are so many styles available from creative to storytelling, documentary and alternative, and with so many price options such as hourly, half-day or full-day – it's difficult to know where to begin. My best advice would be to ignore the buzzwords and look purely at a photographer's work. If it resonates with you and you like the style, look and feel, arrange to have a chat with them. Do you feel comfortable with them, do they fill you with confidence that if something unexpected happened they could work with it and can you see them being at your wedding day with you and your guests? I know this may sound obvious, but they will be with you for the majority of your day, so you want to make sure that you're comfortable with them, and having a good rapport will help when you're having your couples portraits taken. If you've ticked those boxes, price should be the last factor. Your photographs will be a permanent reminder of your wedding day, moments with your loved ones, the hours of planning and details which have gone into your day will all be documented. It's a cliché, I know, but once the cake is eaten and the dress packed away in the loft, your marriage and pictures will be what remain.

Question 6

My wife-to-be wants to book a pre-wedding shoot. Is it worth the money, and what should we expect?

Accepted Answer

Yes, it absolutely is! Pre-wedding shoots are a great idea, especially if you're not used to having your photograph taken or feel slightly awkward in front of the lens. It's your chance to work with your photographer in a relaxed environment and have fun with ideas. Every couple is different, so an approach that works for some may not be suitable for everyone. Some couples love PDA, or like to incorporate their hobbies, and others just want to feel like they're not on a photo shoot. This is a great time for you and your supplier to work out what best suits you and how to help you relax and enjoy having your picture taken. It's also a lovely opportunity to get to know your photographer. I've heard so many anecdotes during pre-shoots that by the time the wedding day arrives, I feel like an old friend. Plus, you'll get a beautiful set of pictures, which are great for save-the-date cards or a signing board on the wedding day.

Question 7

The wedding is getting closer, and we're feeling incredibly anxious about having our photo taken! Can you offer us some advice?

Accepted Answer

Many of my clients talk to me about being nervous when having their photo taken and feeling unphotogenic and uncomfortable when posing. Getting to know your photographer is key as it will help you relax while they work. You shouldn't feel rushed by them, and they should assist with how you should stand and where your hands should go. I love to capture natural shots that show raw emotion. I often say to my clients go for a walk, have a chat and forget I'm even there. This is a great way to warm up before the more formal shots are taken. I also suggest booking a pre-wedding shoot before the big day. It gives you the chance to get to know each other and to familiarise yourself with their style of photography.

Question 8

There are so many photographers to choose from. How do I decide who's right for me?

Accepted Answer

Most couples are already familiar with the style of photography they want for their wedding, whether it be formal or natural. Make sure you research your chosen supplier by checking their websites and social media pages and that their style is what you want on your day. If you have friends or colleagues that have used a particular photographer before, speak to them and ask about their experience. A recommendation speaks volumes. A great photographer will be passionate about their work and will want to achieve exceptional photographs for their clients. They'll want their shots to be as unique as possible and won't be afraid to push the boundaries of creativity to achieve the wow factor. They'll also listen to their clients' specifications and talk in-depth about what can be achieved. You should always be offered a pre-consultation with them before the big day. Experience is key, but ensure your photographer is keeping up-to-date with new skills and techniques and this is reflected in their work. Choose someone you like. Getting a great vibe from your chosen supplier is key. If you're comfortable with them and trust their judgement, then this will only solidify your professional relationship, ensuring you feel relaxed and comfortable around them. They are, after all, capturing one of the most special days of your life.

Question 9

What questions should we ask our photographer before booking?

Accepted Answer

It's always really important that you get a great vibe from your photographer and love their work before committing to them. Any opening questions you ask a photographer should be met with a warm welcome and a clear indication, such as what's included within your package and what you'll pay in terms of deposit. You should talk to your supplier about their style and the type of shots you want for your wedding. They should also have public liability insurance, so if you're not sure, then ask. Find out what they cover in the event of a cancellation or emergency. Your photographer should agree to re-schedule at no extra cost. Ask to see examples of their work if you feel you haven't seen enough. They should be more than happy to provide you with this. It's always good to try and get to know as much as possible about your chosen supplier. The most important thing is that you feel comfortable and relaxed. They are, after all, capturing one of your most special days.

Question 10

We'd love some outdoor shots of our winter wedding. Do you have any ideas of how we can get amazing pictures in any weather?

Accepted Answer

The most important thing to consider with winter weddings is light. As the afternoons grow darker faster there's a smaller window for light. Seasonal weddings can be a double-edged sword. It can be amazing and give a beautiful golden light, but it can also bring terrific rainstorms. Some tips that I like to tell couples is to have a 'first look' before your ceremony. This means that you get to have a special moment as you greet each other for the first time, but it also ensures that you can take advantage of the brighter light of the day, which will ultimately create lovely portraits together. Keep an eye on the weather forecast. If there's the possibility of rain or snow be prepared. Get some cute welly boots and clear umbrellas. Going out in the wet weather can be fun if you embrace it. Ultimately, the main stress comes from being underprepared, so if you're well-equipped, then you can weather any storm together.

FAQs and expert advice about photography