You know how some wedding photos make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside and others make you cringe? The reasons are more complex than choosing a natural pose over a hokey one. We spoke to Elena Wolfe from Fawn and Fallow Photography (www.fawnandfallow.com) in Katonah who shared some awesome tips to help you get picture-perfect wedding photos on your big day.
DO opt for natural lighting
“Lighting is the most important thing,” says Wolfe. “Focus on natural light. As photographers, we can’t really bring in this type of light, so we depend on it.”
DON’T begin taking photos when the sun is going down
Most professional photographers know that starting bright and early is critical to getting quality of your photos. “Take photos at the start of the day,” says Wolfe. “If you want clear and bright photographs, don’t start at noon.”
DO personalize everything you can
“I highly recommend that brides personalize their wedding day as much as possible,” says Wolfe. “From choosing a special imported wine to the smallest details, personalizing is important because it tells a couple’s story a lot better and in a unique way.”
DON’T chose a venue that limits your access
“It’s really important for brides to work with a venue that works with them,” advises Wolfe. “Is the couple able to access the grounds and go to different locations for their pictures? Is there a space to get ready on premises?”
DO know what you want
Think about what’s important to you and talk to your photographer about it, Wolfe says. “I always ask brides, ‘What do you want to remember from your wedding?’” Those are the things you should focus on.
DON’T get obsessed with posing
Posed photographs can be cute, but, after a while, they can get stiff and boring. “The unposed photos are the ones that are often the best,” says Wolfe, because they reflect the true emotion of a particular moment, and those are the moments most couples want to remember.
DO research and ask questions
“Look up photos online and take note of what you like and dislike,” says Wolfe. “Find out what you connect to, what kind of overall look you prefer.”
DO choose storytelling photographs
“I often direct my couples to fall into each other like they naturally do. Go for photos that tell your story, not the ones that are prim and proper.”
