NEW YORK — Elana Goldin entered her wedding day with high expectations for capturing memorable photos and videos. “I adored their portfolio,” she said of the photography company chosen by her dad and future mother-in-law. “They were highly acclaimed and frequently featured in magazines. I was really impressed with the owner’s vibe.”
However, the day did not go as planned. The photographer, who arrived 45 minutes late with two assistants, was not the owner as promised, but someone Goldin had never met. She described this replacement’s demeanor as unpleasant from the outset. Goldin, a Chicago resident who wed last May in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, said, “She criticized my bridal accessories as inadequate for close-up shots and dismantled the bouquets for a better image without consent.” A dispute even erupted between the photographer and florist.
Reflecting on the experience, Goldin realizes she would have approached things differently. Wedding planners and photographers offer insights into avoiding such mishaps.
Assert your expectations
Goldin regrets not being more assertive. Though she had provided a list of desired shots, the photographer assigned to the bridal party began dictating poses. “I was in my dress when she suggested taking pictures in the shower for its grandeur. My sister firmly declined,” noted Goldin. The photographer also insisted on outdoor photos despite the inclement weather, which left the pictures undesirable as Goldin’s dress dirtied and hair frizzed.
Avoid hiring non-professional friends or family
Although friends and family are often well-meaning, Danielle Rothweiler, a New Jersey-based wedding planner, advises against it. “When issues arise, it’s a conversation you don’t want to have,” she explained. One client had an uncle photograph her wedding, but he missed crucial shots and spent much of the time as a guest rather than capturing moments. “She didn’t voice her dissatisfaction, and the results were less than stellar,” Rothweiler shared.
Educate yourself on photography essentials
Michelle Jackson from Bambino International in Ohio emphasizes the importance of understanding technical details. Photographers should have backup equipment of equal quality, including cameras with dual slots for SD or XQD cards, ensuring no data loss due to equipment malfunction.
San Francisco photographer Oscar Urizar advises couples to obtain rights to their photos for personal use, which allows them to print and share without restrictions. “I come from the film industry era where owning negatives was paramount for printing,” Urizar explained.
Plan group photos meticulously
Tirusha Dave of Bravura Brides, who caters to South Asian weddings with extensive guest lists, suggests a detailed plan for group shots. Couples should draft a list of participants for each photo scene and appoint a wrangler who knows everyone to prevent confusion. “I tell couples, I’m an expert in planning, but I don’t know your distant relatives,” said Dave.
Adherence to schedule ensures good photos
April Pinto, a Dallas-area photographer with a team managing up to four events weekly, stresses the importance of sticking to timelines. Yet, enforcing this is challenging when relatives interject with their own plans, adding stress for the couple. Pinto also mentions managing overenthusiastic bridesmaids by engaging them with tasks to curb chaos.
By following these tips, couples can better guarantee that their big day is documented as beautifully as they envision.