How to Be a Good Photography Client

There are so many etiquette rules when it comes to weddings–who to invite, how to word the invite and addresses, who sits where and gets escorted… It can make your head spin. Did you know there are guidelines for working with vendors, too?! Ack!  So we'll let you in on a little secret–photographers are a pretty easy group of folks to work with, if you just follow these simple tips:

• Tell them what you want. If you want artistic, editorial shots (like in magazines), say so. If you want your shoes, rings, special headpiece, etc. featured, just mention it. If you spend hours pouring your heart into special DIY things such as centerpieces or awesome display cards, just ask to get photos of that. If the location, or a particular thing about the location, is important to you, just point it out.
• What's more, tell them what you DON'T want. If formal portraits aren't your thing, just speak up. If you dislike shots of people huddling in small groups chatting, then say so! Not into dancing photos? Not a problem! Special mention: if you are self conscious about anything (upper arms, back fat, double chin, the groom being the same height as the bride, etc.) in particular, tell your photographer!!
• Make a time line. Surely you've made one for yourself, right? Hand it out to your wedding party and all your vendors. They'll have a better idea of your thoughts for the flow of the night, and it's easier to find you in case they need you.
• Trust your photographer.They may recommend you hold your head, shoulders, even your flowers a certain way. They may position you behind a flowy sheer curtain or snap pics while you're getting dressed. It might seem or feel odd, but trust your photographer. The end result could be magical.
• Have a portrait gatherer.Yah, your photographer doesn't know your Aunt Edna from your Aunt Jean, so when it comes time for group photos, appoint a family member to do the wrangling. This way, your photographer can keep on snapping away while someone else does the rounding up.
• Feed them. They're working hard and won't typically have a sit down meal, but do ask the kitchen staff to have something for your vendors (band, DJ, etc.) to eat.

Got any other tips to share? Leave a comment below!