STYLE + PLANNING
Tip: Skip the detailed shot list (they don’t need it!) and, instead, perfect your day-of timeline to pass off to your photographer. envisioning, like retouching services or an engagement session. Ask about any additional fees that could add up too, like having to pay for your photographer’s travel and lodging. Finally, settle on an image delivery date and make sure it’s reflected in your contract so you know exactly when you can expect your shots.
PREP FOR THE DAY OF
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FINESSE THE CONTRACT To get the most out of your photography investment, you’re going to want to make note of several important points when choosing your package and reviewing your contract. Most photographers offer a variety of services to suit their couples’ individual needs. This can include everything from day-of edits and digital proofs to adding a second shooter, scoring tangible prints and ordering a gorgeously assembled album. With all those options for customization, it’s easy to get overwhelmed and feel unsure about what you actually want or need. When you’re ready to make things official, present your chosen photographer with your budget and rough day-of timeline and get their opinion on the best package for you. The amount of time they spend at an event or the number of shots they provide you with may be flexible, so see if you can find a middle ground that works for both of you. Now is also the time to inquire about the cost of any add-ons you’re
Instead of putting together a detailed shot list for your photographer, pass along your final day-of timeline a few weeks ahead of your wedding and give them an idea of what images you’d like captured (like a picture with each bridesmaid or detail shots of the heirloom jewelry you’ll be wearing). Then, let them do their thing! As long as you’ve provided a schedule that you’ll (mostly) stick to, they’ll be able to budget for time spent on your details, dance floor and everything in between on their own accord. Ahead of the wedding is also the time to give them a heads-up on any familial or friendship intricacies they should be aware of, like divorced parents who may want separate family portraits, a grandmother that needs to remain seated for shots, or a groomsman and bridesmaid that don’t get along (hey, it happens). If you’re hoping to get your wedding published online or in a magazine, relay that to your photographer as well. This way, they’ll know to put a little extra emphasis on snapping shots of all your amazing details and will likely come armed with gorgeous styling accessories, like ribbons, linens and more—all with the goal of helping your wedding day aesthetic truly stand out.
BE RELAXED AND READY Guys, take a big deep breath with us now. You’ve put a lot of work into finding and working with the right photographer up until this point, so—like with all your pros—it’s time to put your total faith in them. In the week leading up to your wedding, reach out to re-confirm all the important details (like your venue location, day-of timeline and any surprises you’ve planned for your guests or partner) and answer any lingering questions they may have, then chill out. The only thing that’s left for you and your partner to do now is enjoy yourselves and go get hitched— your pros will happily take care of the rest.
LOCAL LOVE
LUNALEE PHOTOGRAPHY ABOUT THE EXPERTS
DO YOUR RESEARCH
FEEL OUT THE VIBE
HAVE A TRIAL RUN
BE YOURSELVES
Christlyn and Erik Lee are the owners of Atlanta’s Lunalee Photography. They specialize in capturing the authentic moments of a wedding day.
Things like posing and editing are important, so make yourself very familiar with a pro’s work. Look over multiple galleries to be sure their shots are consistent and you like their style.
Your photographer will be there for very intimate moments, so look at them as a friend, not just a vendor. It’s a lot easier to be yourself when you’re with someone you trust.
If your pro offers an engagement session, take advantage of it. It’s a great way to get to know each other on a personal level and get comfortable in front of the camera.
The main purpose of a wedding is to bring two souls together—and that’s a big deal! If you want to skip the garter toss, bring your puppy or wear something funky, just do you.
LunaleePhotos.com
@lunaleephotos
ERSTUDIOTOK/ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES
The Georgia husband and wife photographers share what trends are inspiring them, plus their advice for to-be-weds.
Find your photographer at THE K N OT.CO M/MARK ETPL ACE
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11/7/19 1:26 PM