Photography is an important element for any event – it captures little moments in time. When we sit down with our brides and ask them about the importance of certain areas of their wedding, photography is usually about an 8-9 out of 10. With so many great photographers to choose from in Memphis (and the rest of the country!), you need to sit down with your fiance and talk about what you want. Here are some things to think about:

Photographer Style:
Do you like a more journalistic approach? Less posing, more sporadic, real moments? Or maybe you want more planned poses. What about a photographer who’s more involved with the shots as opposed to a photographer who captures the moments that just happen? Each photographer is different, as is his or her level of involvement.

Photo Style:
Do you want your wedding photos to look more colorful? More vintage? Black and white, color, or a mix? Do you want artsy photos or personal ones? This will also help to determine your photographer. Check their portfolios and let them know which photos you like and why.

Photos Captured:
Think about which moments you want captured during your wedding. Are there certain family members you want included? Certain design elements? Let the photographer know! If you want great bouquet and centerpiece shots or more shots of you and your guests having fun, let him or her know.

After-Elements:
What do you want done with your pictures? An album? Framed canvas? Slideshow? DVD? Make sure the photographer knows up front what you want. This will save time and heartache if he or she can’t fulfill what you’re wanting.

When you meet with photographers (and really any vendor) for the first time, be specific. They don’t know what you want or expect unless you tell them. Communication is key!

Happy Planning!
Southern Event Planners
Memphis, TN Wedding Planners

If you’re a DIY bride without a planner, here’s a little tip in case there are any “Uh-Oh” moments that need to be fixed:

Get contact names, numbers, and arrival times for ALL of your vendors, even if your vendors are your friends. Cake, DJ, Photographer, Videographer, Caterer, Ceremony Location, Reception Location, Transportation, etc. I’m not talking office phone numbers. Cell phone numbers are needed for at least one person from each company. You can ask your ceremony and reception locations for the information of those who will be on-site the day of your wedding.

Make a spreadsheet or timeline of when your vendors will arrive, followed by the names and phone numbers. If you don’t have a day of coordinator then select a friend or family member that you will not need with you at the ceremony. That chosen person can be on site when your vendors start arriving to ensure that everything is delivered and setup for your wedding. 

Too much information is never enough. Share that list with all your vendors in case they need to call to coordinate between themselves. Oh, and try to make two copies. One for your friend or family member, and one to leave in an easily accessible place (someone’s car, for instance). The list could get lost, smudged by rain, or torn. But again, no worries! You have a handy dandy backup list!

Happy Planning!
Southern Event Planners
Memphis, TN Wedding Planners