As a photographer, I see the wedding day from two perspectives.
One perspective is as an individual who photographs what’s happening and makes sure I capture all of the important moments.
The other perspective is that of a person who wants to help you have the best day possible. Someone who cares about you and your experience. And someone who is there to lend a hand and lead the way.
My role as your wedding photographer goes way beyond showing up and capturing photographs. Long before the wedding bells ring, you and I will work together to ensure your day runs smoothly.
Here are 7 ways I make your wedding day run smoothly..
1. I take charge of the wedding day photography timeline.
Ensuring my workflow is well thought out in key stages leading up to the wedding is an essential first step. So about three months out, I’ll send you a questionnaire that captures everything from your getting ready information to ceremony times and venue locations.
This information enables me to draft your wedding photography timeline – an absolute must-have for ensuring your big day goes smoothly. The timeline acts as a map and an ever-present guide during the wedding. It’s such an important element and something I spend countless hours creating.
I consider things like travel times, sunset (for those gorgeous golden hour photographs), and where you want your portraits taken. And I’ll add in lots of buffer time because you never know when things might run a little later than expected.
Having all of these things in place will ensure that we’ll still be on track even if things get shifted.
2. I understand what’s important to you.
Many couples have this misconception that wedding photographers remain distant. You book us, we get the basic info we need, we show up the day like a complete stranger, take the photographs, and leave.
Maybe some wedding photographers fit that description, but I’m not one of them.
It’s crucial for me to get to know the two of you and clearly understand what and who is most important to you. And I always keep those important things at the top of my mind as I photograph your celebration.
Otherwise, I’m just taking pictures for the sake of taking them. There’s no intention behind it. And if you know me even a little bit, you know that I’m all about intention. And complete authenticity.
I strive to deliver the best, most beautiful photographs I can to you, which means I need to have a deep understanding of your values and priorities.
3. I provide a wedding guide.
Every couple who books with me receives a wedding guide filled with wedding vendor recommendations, tips and tricks, timing considerations, checklists, and much more. It’s a really informative guide that walks you through the whole process and answers some of my most frequently asked questions.
The guide also includes an engagement session section full of information to help you prepare. I believe engagement sessions are a great (and fun!) way to get you comfortable in front of the camera. And they allow you to showcase your personalities in a more casual setting.
In the engagement guide, you’ll read about outfit ideas, how to include your pets, locations, prop tips, and the all-important question, “What do I do with my hands?!”
4. I visit the wedding venue and connect with vendors.
If I haven’t been to your wedding venue before, I make a point of visiting before the wedding day to ensure I’m well prepared. I’ll scout the area for portrait locations, take note of the lighting situation, and familiarise myself with all the nooks and crannies.
I’ll also reach out to your wedding suppliers and vendors, introduce myself, and make sure I’m aware of everything that might be important to know. And vice versa.
5. I keep in contact with you.
Working with me isn’t a one-and-done experience. We don’t just sit down for a quick chat, and then you don’t hear from me again until the wedding day.
No way! I’ll keep in regular contact with you leading up to the day to help you where you need it. Ask questions, share concerns, discuss details, brag about your gown. Whatever it is, I’m here for support and guidance.
I also offer some tips in the week leading up to the wedding day. And I like to lock in some time a few weeks out from the wedding to have either an in-person or video chat to go over all the details.
6. I remind you to relax.
Perhaps, most importantly, I’ll remind the two of you to relax. Sink into the day. Take it all in and let your dream team (including me) handle everything. That’s what you hired us to do – now let us take care of you!
If a problem arises, don’t sweat it. In fact, you probably won’t even know about it because I’ll either deal with it myself or direct the problem to someone who can solve it (coordinator/planner/manager/etc.).
Your only “job” is to get married and have a great time with your friends and family. And when you hire me as your wedding photographer, you can count on that happening.
7. Smooth Sailing
Many things go into making sure your wedding day runs smoothly. That’s why it’s important to book a photographer who you can rely on and trust to make your experience not only seamless but enjoyable.
Schedule a call with me, and you’ll be one step closer to having a stress-free wedding day!
I can’t wait to hear from you!
Xo, Sonya
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