How it all runs

Every photographer is different on how they run the day of the wedding. Here is the way I run it, which seems to work perfectly.

• Most packages include 3 hours preparation coverage. I break this down into 30 minutes for the boys (lets face it they arent the most willing to get pics done) and 2.5 hours for the girls.
• The 30 minutes for the boys are generally laid back, pretending to get ready shots, hanging with their mates and most usually get back into their boardies/shirts till they are ready to really get ready. Sometimes guys dont want those shots and thats fine too..I will just spend 3 hours with the girls instead.
• When I arrive at the girls, I take various candids of whats happening, the dress shot, the shoe shots, flowers, group photo with the girls and mum/dad. I also like to try and have the bride ready around 1 hour before shes due to leave. This allows me to get some lovely photos of her ready to go without rushing. Sometimes brides pay money to get ready in a decent hotel so why not use it for photos!
• I then leave 20 minutes before the bride and bridesmaids to ensure I am there at the ceremony location ready for photos, also to get a parking spot.
• I then cover the ceremony in a discreet fashion. All areas get covered, walking up the aisle, the look on your grooms face when he sees you, the service itself, the rings, and the first kiss as husband and wife. One of my favourite parts is the look you will give each other  when you finally become man and wife.. this is usually when your witnesses are signing the certificate.
• I allow 15 minutes for your family and friends to congratulate you before we do the family photos. Most couples are happy to just do immediate family at this point and get some later with cousins or aunties/uncles at reception.
• We then go onto the photo locations for an hour or so. This is a very laid back, casual fun shoot. Lots of laughter, lots of breaks to reapply the lipstick and have a drink if needed but still getting the shots.
• After your location photos we will both leave for the reception together. The bridal party usually have a room to freshen up in before being announced into reception. I like to try and get around 10 minutes in the room before guests are allowed in to get some room shots. This includes the cake as well as table decorations.
• Once you are announced in, I go around to each table and get either group shots, or couple and/or friend shots. Once I have done this I walk around getting candids of whats happening. Nothing better than getting dad and uncle Bob having a chat, or friends from school having a giggle together!
• I do need a meal included and usually sit down to eat when you are all having your main meal. After this I take photos of the speeches, the laughter, the tears and of course the general mood of the room. After this the cake cutting and finally the dance. Reception coverage is around 3 hours and this amount of time covers the main formalities 99% of the time. I also like to take some fun dancing shots with your friends and family.

This then concludes my night. Most weddings have a sneak peak up the day after (depending on if I have another wedding the next day or not)

Any questions? Email Lisa at lisa@lisalent.com.au or use the contact form