Free Wedding Planning Guide:

How to Get the Best Wedding Photos and Videos

Planning your wedding photography and videography can be one of the most exciting yet daunting tasks as part of your big day. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to capture beautiful, timeless moments.

1. Plan Your Vision

Before choosing a photographer or videographer, have a clear vision of what you want for your wedding day memories.

• Choose Your Style: Do you prefer candid, documentary-style photos, posed portraits, or a mix of both? For videography, consider if you want a cinematic, documentary, or highlight reel style.

• Create a Mood Board: Use Pinterest or a simple digital folder to collect inspiration—photos and videos that reflect the style, colors, and mood you want.

• Consider Important Shots: Think about what moments are non-negotiable to capture—family groupings, first look, ceremony, first dance, etc. Make a list!

2. Choose the Right Photographer and Videographer

-Research Their Portfolio: Ensure their past work matches the style you want. Look for consistency in their portfolio.

• Read Reviews: Look for recent reviews and feedback from other couples. Pay attention to how they handled the day, not just the final result.

• Meet with Them: Set up a consultation to ensure you connect with them personally—they’ll be with you for some of the most intimate moments of your day.

• Ask for Full Wedding Samples: It's important to see more than just a highlight reel. Request a full wedding gallery and video to understand their complete coverage style.

3. Build a Photography and Videography Timeline

• Coordinate with Your Wedding Planner: Work with your planner or venue coordinator to structure a timeline that leaves room for all important shots.

• Allocate Time for Key Moments:

• Getting Ready: 1-2 hours

• First Look: 15-30 minutes

• Wedding Party Photo: 30-45 minutes

• Ceremony: Based on your event schedule

• Couple Portraits: 45 minutes to 1 hour (for both day and sunset shots)

• Reception & Dance: Capture key moments like first dance, speeches, cake cutting, and dancing.

• Golden Hour: Plan a time for portraits during the golden hour (the hour before sunset) for the most flattering natural light.

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### **4. Essential Wedding Photo & Video Shots Checklist**

This list includes the must-have shots and moments to ensure nothing is missed:

#### **Getting Ready**

- Bride and groom getting dressed

- Close-up of dress, shoes, rings, and accessories

- Bridesmaids helping bride get ready

- Groomsmen helping groom with final touches

- First look with parents or bridesmaids

#### **Ceremony**

- Venue exterior and decor shots

- Bride and groom arriving

- Groom's reaction to seeing the bride

- Exchanging vows and rings

- First kiss as a married couple

- Walking down the aisle as newlyweds

#### **Family and Wedding Party Photos**

- Bride with parents

- Groom with parents

- Both sets of parents together

- Bride and groom with siblings

- Full bridal party

#### **Couple Portraits**

- First look (if applicable)

- Romantic close-ups

- Scenic shots of the couple at their venue

- Sunset portraits

#### **Reception**

- First dance

- Cutting the cake

- Toasts and speeches

- Candid shots of guests mingling

- Dance floor action shots

- Grand exit (sparklers, confetti, etc.)

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### **5. Communicate Special Requests**

- **Family Dynamics**: Make sure your photographer knows about any family situations to avoid awkward moments.

- **Special Traditions**: Whether it’s a cultural dance or specific tradition, communicate these to your photographer and videographer.

- **Surprises or Unique Moments**: If you’re planning any surprises (e.g., a special performance or fireworks), inform your vendors so they don’t miss the moment.

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### **6. Maximize Lighting and Location**

- **Lighting is Key**: Great lighting can make or break your photos and videos. Discuss lighting options with your photographer and videographer for both indoor and outdoor settings.

- **Natural Light**: Use natural lighting during the ceremony and couple portraits if possible.

- **Artificial Light**: For indoor receptions, ensure your venue provides enough lighting or plan for external lights to enhance your footage.

- **Scenic Locations**: Choose picturesque spots for your couple portraits or first look. Think about gardens, waterfronts, or unique architecture at your venue.

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### **7. Get Comfortable in Front of the Camera**

- **Engagement Session**: Book an engagement session with your photographer to get comfortable being photographed and establish rapport.

- **Relax and Be Yourself**: Don’t stress about every shot being perfect. Relax, enjoy the moment, and let your emotions shine through.

- **Natural Poses**: Don’t be afraid to ask your photographer for tips on natural posing. They’re there to guide you!

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### **8. Videography Tips for a Cinematic Wedding Film**

- **Audio is Important**: Ensure your videographer has a good plan for recording clear audio, especially for vows and speeches.

- **Drone Footage**: If your venue allows, drone footage can add a unique cinematic perspective to your video.

- **Highlight Reel or Full Coverage**: Decide whether you want a short highlight video or full coverage of the ceremony and reception.

- **Music Selection**: Provide a playlist of songs you’d like to include in your video, or trust your videographer to match the mood.

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### **9. Review the Contract and Deliverables**

- **Turnaround Time**: Ask about the estimated time for receiving your photos and video after the wedding.

- **What’s Included**: Be clear on what’s included—raw footage, highlight video, full-length feature, prints, or albums.

- **Backup Plan**: Confirm that your photographer and videographer have a backup plan in case of an emergency (e.g., illness) and that they’re covered with insurance.

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### **10. Enjoy the Moment**

On your wedding day, trust your photographer and videographer to capture the magic. Relax, focus on each other, and let your team handle the rest.

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This checklist will help ensure you’re fully prepared to capture your wedding day beautifully. Keep this guide handy as you plan, and you’ll have lasting memories to cherish forever!

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