Hello there, engaged friend! So,ย you booked your dream wedding photographer; now what?

1. SCHEDULE AN ENGAGEMENT SESSION

I include an engagement session with my wedding packages because it's a win-win for both my clients and me. This session will make a HUGE impact on your wedding day.ย  I will arrive already knowing how you two interact, your most flattering poses, and how to photograph you in a genuine way that reflects you both! This is a great opportunity for you and your partner to get comfortable in front of the camera and diminish any nerves. You will arrive on your wedding day knowing what to expect and feeling familiar with your photographer so that you can both truly enjoy the experience. It is also a fantastic time for brides to have their hair and makeup trial and see how it photographs. What looks too heavy in person usually comes out looking like natural flawlessness through a camera lens.

I have created an engagement style guide to empower my clients to get the most out of our time together. I send this out after they have secured their date with me.

2. DEVELOP A TIMELINE

You will need to determine a timeline for your wedding day with the assistance of either your wedding coordinator or photographer. Donโ€™t panic just yet! Both wedding vendors have years of wedding day experience you can utilize to plan your perfect one. Creating your timeline is one of the most significant things you will do to guarantee your wedding day flows as smoothly as possible.

Not everything will likely go as planned on your wedding day. I'm here to tell you, thatโ€™s completely normal!ย  However, there are things you can do to prepare for the unexpected like add in cushion time. Sometimes the simplest things can take an extra 20 minutes and then all of a sudden, the whole morning is thrown off.ย  I have seen hair and makeup run over the estimated time on multiple occasions. As well as alteration malfunctions and the time it takes to button all of those teeny tiny delicate buttons on a wedding dress. Itโ€™s always a smart idea to add in an extra ten minutes here and there so that we have some wiggle room to work with!ย  This way, if one part of the day gets thrown off by 20 minutes, I can help you make up that time in other areas.

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3. CREATE A SHOT LIST

No doubt there are many wedding moments you want to be documented. The best way to ensure I capture the right moments is to fill out the shot list questionnaire I provide for you. I want to know those photographs that mean the most to you! It also helps me learn family members' first names, relationships, and any special needs such as any handicapped or less mobile people. This helps me formulate a game plan in advance and manage my time to give you a stress-free wedding day! It also makes it much easier for me to gather everyone and start posing them for your group photos, such as family formals and wedding party.ย  My goal is to photograph your requested photos efficiently and get you to your reception to start celebrating your marriage!

4. VENDOR QUESTIONNAIRE

Filling out the vendor questionnaire I send you is essential so that the vendors can have contact before your wedding. This helps us work as a team to create the most magical day for you. It is also necessary if you want your wedding submitted for publication in magazines or blogs to give credit to all of the vendors.

Hopefully, you now know the next steps after you booked your dream wedding photographer!

Photography | Leigh Hayward Photography

Leigh Hayward Charleston Wedding Photographer

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