Why You Don’t Need to Wear a Traditional Wedding Dress
WHY YOU DON’T NEED TO WEAR A TRADITIONAL WEDDING DRESS
If you’ve been browsing through wedding photography in Sheffield or flipping through bridal magazines lately, you might have noticed a trend: more and more brides are ditching the traditional white wedding dress for something a little more, well, alternative. So, what’s the deal with this shift in bridal fashion? Let’s dive in and explore why some women are saying “I don’t” to the traditional gown.
BREAKING TRADITION WITH NON-TRADITIONAL WEDDING DRESS ATTIRE
Picture this: instead of the classic white gown with a mile-long train, some brides are opting for jumpsuits, suits, or even colourful dresses on their big day. Why? Well, for starters, not every bride feels like herself in a traditional wedding dress. Some women prefer to wear something that reflects their personal style and makes them feel comfortable and confident as they walk down the aisle. And hey, who says you can’t look fabulous in a jumpsuit?
EMBRACING INDIVIDUALITY IN WEDDINGS
Every bride is unique, so why should they all wear the same cookie-cutter wedding dress? Some women are choosing alternative wedding attire as a way to express their individuality and stand out from the crowd. Whether it’s a vintage-inspired gown, a bohemian lace dress, or a sleek and modern jumpsuit, brides are embracing the freedom to wear whatever makes them feel like the best version of themselves on their wedding day.
THE PRACTICAL SIDE OF THE ALTERNATIVE WEDDING DRESS
Let’s be real: traditional wedding dresses can be expensive, not to mention impractical. Between the delicate fabrics, intricate beading, and cumbersome trains, they’re not exactly the most comfortable or convenient option for a day filled with dancing, eating, and celebrating. By choosing a more casual or non-traditional wedding outfit, brides can focus less on fussing over their dress and more on enjoying every moment of their special day.
AT THE END OF THE DAY, IT’S ALL ABOUT CHOICE
At the end of the day, your wedding day should be a reflection of you and your partner’s love story. Whether that means walking down the aisle in a ball gown or a pair of jeans, the most important thing is that you feel happy, confident, and true to yourself. So, if the idea of wearing a traditional wedding dress doesn’t spark joy for you, don’t be afraid to think outside the box and choose an alternative that feels right. After all, it’s your day, your way… Isabelle xx
So, you’re planning the big day, and you want that confetti moment to be picture-perfect, right? Well, you’ve come to the right place! Let me spill the beans on how to get the shot that will make everyone swoon.
LET’S TALK CONFETTI TYPE
First things first, let’s talk type. There are all sorts out there, from metallic to dried flower and biodegradable paper. Now, I’m all about that eco-friendly vibe, so my top pick is definitely the biodegradable paper. Not only is it better for the environment, but it also looks amazing in photos and won’t harm any little critters that might stumble upon it later.
ORGANISATION IS KEY TO THE PERFECT CONFETTI SHOT
Now, when it comes to positioning your guests for the ultimate shot, it’s all about strategic placement. Firstly, the best time for this moment is just after the wedding ceremony. Ask your venue staff to escort your guests to the desired location. Before the day, give one of the bridal party the job to hand out confetti at the door. I will then align your guests into two lines, and you’ll be able to walk through the middle for max confetti coverage. Pro tip: Avoid having guests hold drinks during this moment. Ask your venue not to serve drinks to your guest until after. Trust me, you don’t want any guests accidental throwing a drink instead!
BUY MORE CONFETTI THAN YOU EXPECT
Here’s a golden rule: always buy more than you think you’ll need. Seriously, you can never have too much! The more, the merrier! Plus, it makes for the most epic photos. I mean, who doesn’t love a confetti blizzard?
INDOORS OR OUTDOORS
Now, let’s talk location. You can have your confetti moment indoors or outside, but personally, I’m all about that outdoor vibe. There’s just something magical about being surrounded by nature while celebrating love and happiness. Plus, the natural light is perfect for these shots.
ALWAYS CHECK WITH YOUR VENUE
But before you start throwing confetti willy-nilly, make sure to check with your venue about any rules or regulations. Some venues can be strict on the type you use, and may not allow any at all. The last thing you want is to get in trouble for leaving a glittery mess behind, and a bill for the clean up!
JUST HAVE FUN
And finally, the most important tip of all: have fun and enjoy the moment! This is your time to shine, so don’t stress about getting the perfect shot. Just let loose and soak in all the love and laughter surrounding you.
So there you have it, folks! Follow these simple tips, and you’ll be sure to capture the perfect confetti shot that you’ll cherish forever… Isabelle xx
Planning to shake up things up a bit for your Sheffield wedding? Thankfully, I’ve got some alternative ideas for you instead of the traditional cake cutting and first dance. As a Sheffield wedding photographer who specialises in capturing natural and alternative weddings, I’ve seen couples get super creative with their celebrations. Let’s dive into some fun and memorable alternatives that’ll make your big day even more special!
1. PULLING A PINT
Sheffield is famous for its vibrant pub culture, so why not incorporate that into your wedding? Instead of cutting the cake, you could have a “pint pulling” moment where you and your partner pour a pint together. It’s a fun and relaxed way to kick off the festivities and celebrate your love in true Sheffield style.
2. FIRST SONG
Rather than a traditional first dance, why not have a first song serenade? Choose a meaningful song that reflects your relationship, and have a live band or acoustic performer play it as you and your partner share a sweet moment together on the dance floor. It’s a unique twist on the first dance tradition that will have your guests swooning.
3. ICE CREAM VAN
Treat your guests to a sweet surprise with an ice cream van parked outside your venue. Instead of a traditional dessert, let guests indulge in scoops of delicious ice cream served from a charming vintage van. With a variety of flavours and toppings to choose from, it’s sure to be a hit with guests of all ages. Plus, it adds a nostalgic touch to your wedding day and creates a fun and memorable experience for everyone involved. So, why not cool off and celebrate with a scoop of happiness from the ice cream van?
4. DANCE OFF
Turn up the fun with a dance-off competition that gets everyone on their feet! Divide your guests into teams and challenge them to showcase their best dance moves. From classic ballroom to funky freestyle, let the music move you as you boogie the night away. Award prizes for the most creative dancers and watch as the energy levels soar on the dance floor.
5. PHOTO BOOTH FUN
Spice up your reception with a photo booth stocked with quirky props and backdrops. It’s a fantastic way to keep guests entertained and capture candid moments throughout the night. Plus, it provides you with a ton of hilarious photos to look back on and cherish for years to come.
THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX
Remember, your wedding day is all about celebrating your love in a way that feels authentic to you as a couple. So don’t be afraid to think outside the box and incorporate unique touches that reflect your personalities and interests. As your Sheffield wedding photographer, I can’t wait to capture all the special moments of your alternative wedding and create memories that will last a lifetime. Cheers to love, laughter, and happily ever after… Isabelle x
Feeling a bit overwhelmed with all the wedding jargon and endless choices? Don’t fret – I’m here to break down the buzz around natural wedding photography and why it might just be the touch you didn’t know you needed for your big day.
If you’re on the hunt for a natural wedding photographer who specialises in capturing the genuine moments, you’ve come to the right place. Today, I’m chatting about what is natural wedding photographer – as this is my style.
THE MAGIC OF NATURAL WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY
So, what exactly sets a natural wedding photographer apart from the rest? Picture this: Instead of stiff, posed shots, imagine candid laughter, stolen glances, and genuine smiles. That’s the magic of a photographer who thrives on capturing the beauty of unscripted moments.
A skilled wedding photographer will dance along with your day and seamlessly blend into the background. From the teary-eyed vows to the spontaneous dance moves, every emotion is embraced and immortalised in a series of timeless snapshots.
WHY GO NATURAL?
Why choose natural wedding photography? Say goodbye to cookie-cutter images and hello to a visual narrative that’s uniquely yours. These photos tell a story, your story! The little moments that make your wedding day truly unforgettable.
THE ART OF BLENDING IN
One of the perks of hiring a wedding photographer who specialises in natural shots is their ability to become a part of the celebration. No awkward staging or intrusive moments. A friendly face with a camera, capturing the essence of your day without disrupting your flow.
EMBRACING MANCHESTER’S UNIQUE CHARM
If you’re tying the knot in Manchester, you’re in for a treat! A natural wedding photographer familiar with the city’s vibrant energy can skilfully incorporate its iconic landmarks and hidden gems into your photo collection. Adding a touch of local charm to your memories.
TOP TIPS FOR NATURAL WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY
1. Be yourselves: Embrace the quirks, laughter, and love that make your relationship unique.
2. Trust your photographer: Let them work their magic, and you’ll be amazed at the results.
3. Location matters: Choose venues that reflect your personality, and your photographer will do the rest.
CLOSING THOUGHTS
In a world filled with staged perfection, natural wedding photography lies in its ability to capture the imperfectly perfect moments. So, if you’re dreaming of a wedding album that tells your love story in all its authentic glory, then look no further! Just hit that magical button below, and let’s chat about your wedding photography journey together. Can’t wait to capture the essence of your love!… Isabelle xxx
Hey there soon-to-be newlyweds! Are you on the hunt for the perfect venue in Manchester? Then look no further than the enchanting Styal Lodge. As a natural wedding photographer who has witnessed countless love stories unfold against picturesque backdrops, this place gets a HUGE tick from me! It’s a hidden gem!
STYAL LODGE: Nature & Elegance Combined
Nestled in the heart of Cheshire, Styal Lodge effortlessly combines rustic charm with modern elegance. As a natural wedding photographer, finding venues that seamlessly blend with the beauty of nature is a treasure hunt, and Styal Lodge is a goldmine.
MANCHESTERS BEST-KEPT SECRET
As a Manchester wedding photographer, I’ve come to appreciate the city’s unique blend of urban chic and natural beauty. Styal Lodge is like a secret garden tucked away from the hustle and bustle, offering couples a peaceful escape without compromising on accessibility. It’s a hidden haven that lets you escape into the magic of your special day, far away from the city’s hustle.
TIPS FOR THE PERFECT SHOTS
For couples considering this dreamy venue, here are a few tips to make the most of your natural wedding photography at Styal Lodge:
1. Embrace the Outdoors: Styal Lodge’s stunning outdoor spaces are a photographer’s playground. Be open to exploring the gardens, lakeside, and woodland areas for unforgettable shots.
2. Golden Hour Magic: The venue truly comes alive during the golden hour. Plan time for a couples photo session during this time to capture the romance in the warm, soft glow of the setting sun.
3. Candid Moments: Let the magic happen naturally. Styal Lodge’s charm lies in its ability to create authentic moments. Allow your photographer to capture the real, unscripted love between you and your partner.
IT REALLY HAS IT ALL
In the world of natural wedding photography, Styal Lodge stands as a testament to the perfect harmony between love and nature. As a Manchester wedding photographer, I can’t help but be smitten by the magical moments that unfold in this hidden gem. If you’re envisioning a wedding surrounded by the beauty of the outdoors, Styal Lodge is the canvas where your love story can come to life in the most enchanting way. Happy wedding planning… Isabelle xxx
As a wedding photographer, every wedding is a unique journey, and some locations hold a special place in my heart. Recently, I had the absolute joy of capturing the insanely beautiful union of the fantastic duo, Kat & Sarah, at none other than the dreamy locales of The Chimney House and The Mowbray in the heart of Sheffield. This couple chose these alternative wedding venues for their distinctive charm, creating the perfect setting for an unforgettable celebration. Join me as I take you through the highlights of this enchanting day, filled with natural wedding photography, candid moments, and the undeniable magic of these Sheffield wedding venues.
THE CHIMNEY HOUSE: Industrial Romance
Picture this – exposed brick walls, high ceilings, and an atmosphere drenched in industrial-chic vibes at The Chimney House. It was like stepping into a love story unfolding in the coolest urban fairy tale. Natural wedding photography was practically begging to happen in this setting, and candid moments? Oh, they were just waiting to be captured – genuine laughter, heartfelt exchanges, and a whole lot of happy tears.
THE MOWBRAY: Where Elegance Meets History
We then danced our way to The Mowbray, where modern luxury met historic charm in the most exquisite fashion. I’m talking Grade II listed elegance that set the stage for a celebration that was nothing short of regal. Every nook and cranny of The Mowbray became a canvas for me to paint the story of Kat & Sarah’s love – the soft glow of natural light, the richness of emotions, and the kind of candid photography dreams are made of.
THE MOWBRAY: Where Elegance Meets History
Trust me, this wedding is a rollercoaster of emotions, and I can’t wait for you to dive in! Make your way through the visual feast that was Kat & Sarah’s wedding – a day that will forever hold a special place in my heart… Isabelle xxx
Oh, let’s dive into the wonder that was 2023! It was a year that unfolded into the most amazing, beautiful, and downright vibrant chapter of my photography journey. Each day brought a kaleidoscope of colours, stunning moments, and the buzz of love in the air. It turned out to be my busiest year yet, and goodness, it was a whirlwind of joy!
Meeting incredible people, being a part of so many special days, and witnessing the magic as couples united across the UK – it’s hard to put into words just how bloomin’ amazing it all was. As I type this, I’m still riding the high of the fantastic memories. But, can we just pause for a moment? Seriously, where on earth did the year vanish to? Time has a way of slipping through our fingers, leaving us in awe of the journey we’ve been on. Here’s to the year that was – a tapestry of love, laughter, and memories that will forever hold a special place in my heart. Cheers to the magic of 2023, and bring on the adventures that lie ahead!
Absolutely! Reflecting on the whirlwind of 2023 makes me pause and realize the immense privilege that comes with this job. It’s more than capturing moments; it’s about being entrusted with preserving the memories of couples for a lifetime. It’s a role that I cherish, and I thrive on being a keeper of these precious moments.
As I take a stroll down memory lane through the photos of the year, it’s a poignant reminder of just how valuable these images are. They’re not just pixels on a screen; they’re windows into moments that become cherished treasures for couples, their friends, and their families. It’s a privilege I don’t take lightly, and I’m grateful for every opportunity to weave these stories into the tapestry of people’s lives. Here’s to the power of memories and the magic they hold!
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who made 2023 a spectacular journey! To the incredible couples, the joyful guests, the amazing vendors, and everyone in my personal life – your support and collaboration have made this year nothing short of magical. It’s true, this isn’t always an easy job, but hey, they say nothing worthwhile ever is. And every beautiful moment, every shared smile, and every captured memory make it all worth it. So, from the bottom of my heart, thank you all for being a part of this incredible adventure. Here’s to the shared laughter, the heartfelt moments, and the memories that will last a lifetime!
The wedding speeches, the pinnacle point of your wedding day, are truly a momentous occasion. It’s an opportunity to showcase not only your life and love, but also the cherished bonds you share with your loved ones. Personally, I’ve been lucky enough to witness countless heart-warming toasts throughout the years. However, I’ve also had the privilege of delivering my own wedding speech! That being said, allow me to impart some valuable tips and tricks based on my first-hand experience from both perspectives.
When it comes to capturing the magic of your special day, wedding photography plays a crucial role. It is a testament to the beauty and essence of the bonds you vow to cherish forever. While posed shots have their charm, I must admit that my heart belongs to natural photography. There’s something enchanting about candid photography that effortlessly captures the genuine emotions and precious moments shared during a nature-themed wedding.
So, as you prepare for your big day, consider incorporating the beauty of nature into your wedding aesthetic. It serves as a perfect backdrop for breath-taking shots that reflect the love and commitment between you and your partner. Remember, wedding photography is more than just capturing images; it’s about encapsulating the purest and most authentic essence of your love story.
May your wedding day be a celebration of love, immortalised through the art of photography!
WHAT TIME IS BEST FOR YOUR WEDDING SPEECHS
When organising your special day, it’s important to think about when you want to do your speeches. These days, anything goes when it comes to natural photography wedding photography! But, it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be organized! Whether you choose to have them before your wedding breakfast, after the wedding breakfast, or in between courses, make sure you communicate this plan with your whole wedding team. That doesn’t just mean your wedding coordinator. That means; your catering team, your toastmaster, your vendors, and of course your photographer, who specializes in natural photography wedding photography! We want to ensure we capture the moments of your speeches, so if you don’t communicate this plan with us, it might mean we miss out on this moment. This is the last thing we want! Take time to figure out what works best for you, and then ensure you talk to each of your wedding team about your plan. Easy!
PRINT YOUR SPEECH
Please, please, PLEASE print your speech!!! Honestly, it makes a huge difference! Not only will it make reading the speech easier and flow better, but it also makes for far superior candid photos! So, ditch the phone, and get it printed instead. Extra bonus, the gift for your 1st anniversary is paper, so why not get your speeches framed? It’s the perfect sentimental gift, plus half your job is already done! Winner!
GET THE LADIES INVOLVED
It’s 2023, speeches are no longer just for the blokes! This is open to all the ladies too! Whether it’s the mother of the bride/groom, maid of honour, bridesmaid, best friend, sister, and most importantly… the bride!!! It’s time to get up and talk about the most important people in your life, and of course, your one and only. I love to see the ladies involved in this part of the day and breaking down traditions. You go gurls!
THINK ABOUT YOUR POSITION
Consider the available options for your wedding venue and wedding photography, as they may offer various locations for delivering your speech and capturing memorable candid photos. It is recommended to choose a position that allows the majority of your guests to have a clear view of you. Additionally, prioritize focusing on your new spouse during this significant moment.
ALCOHOL ISN’T YOUR FRIEND
Doing a speech can be very nervous-wrecking, I completely get it! I’ve been there and experienced it for myself. The temptation to neck a few proseccos to ease the nerves is strong, but don’t fall for it! The last thing you want is to have one too many, start to slur your words, or even say something you shouldn’t! I’ve witnessed this a couple of times… So, by all means, enjoy a glass or two of your favourite tipple, but until you finish your speech try to keep it to a minimum! After that, go wild!
DON’T WORRY ABOUT MESSING UP
No matter how nervous you are, or whether you mess up your words, or croak up on the emotional bit, remember, everyone in the room is there because they love you! Everyone there is willing you on! And everyone knows how much this means to you! So even if you slip up, as the photographer for weddings, please don’t worry. People will love it no matter what! Just remember to breathe and take in the wedding photography experience as much as you can.
TIMING IS EVERYTHING
After numerous weddings, I’ve come to the conclusion that the best wedding speeches are around 10 minutes long. 10 minutes is a perfect amount of time. It’s enough time to get in the meaningful, sentimental and funny moments without it “going on a bit”. The likelihood is, you could probably go on about your loved one for hours, but for the sake of your guests, please try and keep it short and sweet. Only include the most important stuff.
PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT
Don’t underestimate the power of practice! Take the time to rehearse your speech beforehand, whether it’s in front of a mirror or with a trusted friend or family member. This will help you feel more confident and comfortable on the big day. Remember, the more you practice, the smoother your delivery will be!
ADD A PERSONAL TOUCH
Make your speech truly memorable by adding a personal touch. Share a heartfelt story, a funny anecdote, or a special moment that showcases your unique relationship with your spouse. This will not only captivate your audience but also make your speech more meaningful and authentic. Don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through!
Speeches are such a wonderful point of your wedding day, so I hope that these tips help you to have the best wedding speeches EVER… Isabelle xx
Looking to enhance your wedding photography experience? You’ve landed in the perfect spot! Discover 10 of my ultimate wedding photography ideas that will guide you to capture the most stunning wedding photos ever!!!
1. SAVE GIFT-GIVING UNTIL YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER ARRIVES
It’s a lovely idea to give your bridal party a little something to say thank you for being there on your special day. It’s a wonderful keepsake of the day but also makes for wonderful photos. You get all the reactions. The smiles and the tears, and this is exactly what we want to capture for you! So, don’t let us miss it! Simply keep your gifts hidden and bring them out once your photographer has arrived. It’s a fab moment and you’ll be thankful you waited for us to capture it.
2. UN-PLUG YOUR CEREMONY
As a passionate supporter of candid wedding photography, I wholeheartedly encourage guests to snap their own pictures and capture the special moments throughout the day. However, when it comes to the wedding ceremony, I firmly believe that cameras and phones should be tucked away. Imagine the bride, radiant in her stunning wedding dress, approaching her partner, only to be greeted by a sea of phones instead of engaged faces. Leave the natural wedding photography to the professionals, the candid wedding photographers who specialize in capturing the true essence of your special day. Let us, the experts in wedding photography, capture the authentic reactions of your guests, including those precious wedding guest pictures, so you can relive the natural and candid moments time and time again.
3. THE MORE CONFETTI, THE BETTER!
The confetti shot is an iconic wedding photo shot that brings joy to any style of wedding. To avoid running out of confetti, purchase extra based on the supplier’s guidelines. Encourage your guests to wait on the drinks and grab a generous handful of confetti instead, ensuring a vibrant and memorable moment. If there’s any leftover, we can sprinkle some magic into your couple’s session with adorable confetti-themed pictures.
4. GIVE YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER A GROUP LIST – BUT KEEP IT SHORT!
Prior to the wedding, I provide my couples with a template for a list of group photos, which is an essential part of wedding photography. It’s crucial to capture these memories with your nearest and dearest, but remember to keep the list concise. By focusing on your most important people, you’ll spend less time posing and more time enjoying the celebration with your loved ones.
5. PRINT YOUR WEDDING SPEECH
It may seem simple, but printing your speech can significantly enhance your wedding photography. Ditch the phone and opt for a printed speech that’s not only easier to read but also looks much better in photos. With printing options readily available, there’s no reason not to have a hard copy for your big moment.
6. YOU DON’T HAVE TO DO EVERYTHING!
Searching for ‘Wedding Ideas’ online can lead to an overwhelming array of choices, from rustic wedding themes to bohemian wedding styles. However, the most memorable weddings I’ve photographed are those that reflect the couple’s unique spirit, rather than trying to incorporate every trend. Embrace the beauty of a natural wedding or an alternative wedding that truly represents you, because when it comes to weddings, less is indeed more.
7. SHE’S YOUR WIFE, NOT YOUR MUM! GIVE HER A PROPER KISS!
Let’s talk about the first kiss. It’s the major photo opportunity of the whole wedding ceremony, and everyone is on tenterhooks waiting for that moment… so don’t just give a quick peck on the lips! Come on! You’ve been planning this day for god knows how long, so give each other a PROPER kiss! A good long kiss is what everyone there wants to see, plus it means there’s no way any photographer can miss it!
8. GIVE YOUR GUESTS SOMETHING TO DO
During your wedding reception, keep your guests entertained beyond just drinking at the bar. Introduce garden games, which have become increasingly popular, as a delightful way to encourage guest interaction. If you’re not keen on outdoor activities, consider setting up wedding bingo. A quick search online will reveal numerous creative ideas to energize your celebration and, crucially, capture those spontaneous, fun moments in candid shots that you’ll cherish.
9. TAKE TIME FOR EACH OTHER
Amid the whirlwind of emotions and activities on your wedding day, it’s essential to find a moment of serenity with your partner. A strategic way to enjoy this pause without neglecting your guests is to have your wedding photography session whisk you away. This not only provides an opportunity for stunning candid photos but also a brief respite. Afterward, you’ll return to your celebration rejuvenated and ready to re-join the festivities.
The wedding photography session acts as a capturing mechanism to encapsulate the raw and unfiltered essence of your special day. By incorporating wedding photography ideas, you can infuse creative concepts that encapsulate your unique love story.
During this hyper-stylized wedding photography experience, the focus remains on capturing candid’s photography moments, which truly capture the genuine interactions and emotions shared between you and your partner. These candid photos will serve as timeless mementos, transporting you back to the very essence of your wedding day.
The natural photography style employed by experienced photographers for wedding allows for authentic storytelling, enabling the art to unfold organically. With a delicate balance between artistry and reality, these photographers for wedding will document your celebration candidly, without imposing artificial poses or disrupting the flow of the event.
Enlisting the expertise of a seasoned photographer for weddings ensures that every captivating moment from your wedding day is immortalized. Their keen eye for detail and ability to blend seamlessly into the background guarantees a comprehensive collection of candid photos, capturing all the treasured memories you’ll want to cherish for a lifetime.
10. LISTEN TO YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER
Lastly, it’s crucial to heed the advice of your wedding photographer, especially when it comes to wedding photography. With their extensive experience in capturing the most incredible photos, they are a treasure trove of knowledge in the world of natural photography and candid photography. Before the big day, don’t hesitate to ask all your questions to benefit from their expertise in wedding photography for the most incredible photos. And the guidance doesn’t stop there; even during the wedding, they’ll offer helpful tips and suggestions in the field of natural photography and candid photography to ensure every moment is captured beautifully.
ONE FINAL QUICK TIP
When it comes to making decisions for your wedding, trust your instincts. You know yourselves and your vision better than anyone else. Don’t be swayed by outside opinions or trends that don’t resonate with you. Stay true to yourselves and create a day that reflects your unique love story.
I hope these 10 wedding photography tips and hacks offer you some valuable insights and assist you in maximizing the potential of your wedding photography… Isabelle xx
The morning of a wedding is beyond exciting, but also super busy! If you’re not careful, it might not go as you planned! So, if you want to ace your bridal prep and enjoy it to its fullest, take note of these easy tips and tricks!
CREATE A BRIDAL MORNING PLAYLIST
Your bridal prep is all about getting in the zone, right? Well, here’s the secret sauce – music! Pump up the excitement by borrowing a portable speaker and blasting a playlist of absolute bangers. (Psst, a little Vengaboys never hurt anyone!) The last thing you need on your wedding morning is to worry about what to listen to. So, a couple of days before the big day, whip up a killer playlist (or snag one from Spotify), and watch as the good vibes roll in. Pro tip: the longer the playlist, the better! And make sure it’s on a loop, so those tunes keep the candid moments and energy going without a dull moment. Let’s turn that bridal prep into a party!
KEEP ALL YOUR BRIDAL DETAILS TOGETHER
You’ve scoured Instagram, Pinterest, and every wedding magazine for those perfect touches that complete your wedding look. Let’s ensure these details are not just noticed but forever remembered in your photos! I’ve got a little pro tip for you – the night before your wedding, gather all these precious items in a box. Designate one of your bridesmaids as the guardian of this treasure trove, and voila! No morning chaos, no frantic searches. It’s all about stress-free elegance!
In that magical box, toss in your engagement ring (and its box), jewellery, shoes, perfume, hairpins, your wedding invitation, and anything else sentimental you’d love to see captured in your wedding photography collection. This becomes my first mission in the morning – capturing these details so that after I work my photography magic, they’re ready for you to rock! Let’s make sure those carefully chosen details shine as bright as your love story!
DITCH THE BRA AND SOCKS
Ah, the age-old battle of bras and socks on the wedding morning – they can be the sneakiest foes! Those pesky marks they leave behind can linger for hours. Here’s a game-changing tip: embrace the comfort of PJs for as long as you can, and trade those socks for snuggly slippers. Voila! No more worrying about unsightly imprints on your skin, and your feet stay toasty warm. It’s the little things that can make your wedding morning extra cosy and stress-free!
KEEP HYDRATED
Here’s a gem of a tip to kick off a few days before your wedding: stay hydrated! Downing plenty of water works wonders by flushing out impurities, leaving your skin looking and feeling its best. It’s not just a boon for your makeup artist; it also ensures your makeup stays put without needing constant touch-ups.
But, hold on, don’t forget to keep the hydration train rolling on the morning of your wedding! With all the excitement and the whirlwind of activities, your wedding day can be a marathon. Task one of your fabulous bridesmaids with the mission of keeping your glass full – and I’m not just talking about prosecco! Trust me, you’ll appreciate this little boost as you soak in every magical moment of your incredible day. Cheers to staying refreshed and fabulous!
LIGHTING IS KEY
A little photography secret – light is everything, and natural light is our absolute best friend, especially during your bridal prep! Whether you’re getting ready at home, a hotel, or a venue, scout out that spot flooded with natural sunlight. Opt for those big windows over dingy artificial lighting any day. Why? Because us wedding photographers are head over heels for natural light!
Not only does it work wonders for your skin, giving you that radiant glow, but it also sets the stage for the most breathtaking photos. So, embrace the sunlight, and let’s make sure your bridal prep is not just a routine but a radiant experience filled with stunning moments!
TEARS BEFORE MAKEUP, LADIES!
The wedding morning is an emotional rollercoaster. Letters from parents, kind words from siblings, and hugs from loved ones – you’re bound to shed a tear or two! Now, as someone who thrives on capturing emotions, I absolutely adore these moments. However, I understand that waterworks can wreak havoc on your makeup. That’s why I have a little suggestion: schedule these heartfelt moments before you sit down for your makeup.
Typically, the bride has her makeup done closer to the end of the bridal prep to ensure it lasts longer. This also means you have more time to embrace those emotions without worrying about smudged makeup. It’s a perfect blend of heartfelt moments and flawless makeup – the ideal combination for an emotionally beautiful and picture-perfect wedding morning!
KEEP TRACK OF TIME
No matter how early you rise for your bridal prep, the morning has a knack for slipping away in the blink of an eye (picture me clicking my fingers right about now). Time can easily slip through your fingers, especially with the hustle and bustle of makeup artists and hair stylists working their magic. Now, if you’re getting ready at your venue, the presence of a wedding planner can be a game-changer in keeping things on schedule.
But what if you find yourself at home or a hotel? Fear not! Instead of turning into a bridal party of headless chickens, why not designate one of your bridesmaids as the official timekeeper? (Pssst, go for the bossiest one, but shh, let’s keep that between us.) They can keep you posted on the ticking clock, ensuring you stay on track while you focus on savoring the morning, stress-free! Because let’s face it, the last thing you need is a time-related headache on your wedding day.
Oh, as a wedding photographer, I could chat about wedding mornings all day long, but let’s wrap it up for now. I truly hope these tips sprinkle a bit of magic to help you create the wedding morning you’ve always dreamed of! If you ever want to dive deeper into wedding day wonders, I’m just a message away. Wishing you the most beautiful and dreamy wedding day, filled with love and joy! Isabelle xx
