Wedding days are crazy busy. There is so much to do from the time you get up, to the time you (finally) kick off your shoes and fall into bed. But, after all is said and done, your photos will be the one thing that lasts beyond your special day, besides your memories. So, it'd make sense to plan your wedding day around getting the best photos possible, right? Here, I'll explain how to do that.

1.) This is the most important. Hire a photographer who has experience. Someone who doesn't know what they're doing may be cheap, but they're gonna waste time on your day, and on an already busy day, that's not okay.

2.) Understand that a lot of getting ready photos are actually photos of you touching up your hair and make-up, and not of you actually getting them done. I say this so that you can understand why I don't necessarily need to follow you around most of the day. I can easily arrive an hour before the start of your ceremony and begin capturing all of these beautiful moments. 

3.) When it comes to family photos, please alert your family beforehand that they need to stick around after the ceremony to participate in these portraits. It wastes a LOT of time when we have to track down family members. I once had an outstanding bride who did this, and we were able to get through ALL of the formals in just 20 minutes!

4.) Please remember that each family grouping, and each wedding party grouping can take upwards of 5 minutes a piece. I want you to spend as much time as possible enjoying your reception, so we can do one of two things: cut the shot list down to the bare minimum, or plan accordingly for the start of your reception. I'm definitely up for helping you figure this bit out!

5.) More often than not, the best time to take couple's photos falls about 45 minutes after the start of the reception. I would LOVE to sneak away with the two of you for about 20 minutes and get some amazing photos, but we have to coordinate this with the DJ so that toasts don't start while you're not there. I'm more than happy to help with this!

6.) The best reception photos usually take place during the first hour after dancing has started. After that, it just becomes more of the same photos. Unless you have an elaborate exit planned, most photos after this point usually end up on the editing room floor. I say this so you know when it's okay to let your photographer leave. 

With a little bit of planning that I'm happy to help with, your wedding timeline can allow you time to get amazing photos while you still enjoy your day!