When to schedule couple photos on the wedding day?
Wedding tips
Finding the perfect time for couple photos on your wedding day is essential to capture stunning, intimate moments without disrupting the flow of your celebration. Over the years, I've discovered two optimal moments to schedule these sessions: during the golden hour as guests begin to settle for dinner and right after the preparations. Each has its own unique advantages and considerations.
Golden Hour Session
My favorite option is to schedule the couple's session during the golden hour, right as guests are starting to sit down for dinner. This time is perfect for capturing soft, romantic light.
Advantages:
Perfect Lighting: The golden hour provides the best natural light, with warm tones and soft shadows, ideal for creating dreamy and romantic photos.
Quiet Moment for the Couple: After mingling with guests during the cocktail hour, this session gives the couple a peaceful break before the dinner festivities begin. It's a lovely way to decompress and enjoy a private moment together.
Guests Are Occupied: As guests are busy finding their seats and settling in, the couple’s brief absence usually goes unnoticed, minimizing any disruption.
Efficient Use of Time: This timing maximizes the couple’s schedule. Instead of waiting outside while guests settle in, they can make the most of this period by capturing beautiful photos.
Disadvantages:
Weather Dependence: If the weather is unpredictable, relying on the golden hour can be risky. There might not be a chance for a backup session later in the day and if there is a delay we may end up missing the right moment and being too dark. To mitigate this, I always try to capture a few photos earlier in the day whenever there’s a break in the weather.
First Look Session
The second option is to have the couple's session right after the preparations and before the ceremony begins. This typically takes place before the guests arrive, allowing the couple to have a private moment together, the first look.
Advantages:
Uninterrupted Time: Since the guests haven’t arrived yet, there's no risk of them feeling neglected. This time is exclusively for the couple to relax and enjoy each other's company without any distractions.
More Time: This option generally allows for a longer session, giving the couple time to get comfortable in front of the camera. It also provides an opportunity to take some group photos with the bridal party or family members present during the preparations.
First Look: the "first look" moment is a highly emotional and cherished time that can be beautifully captured in photos.
Disadvantages:
Seeing Each Other Before the Ceremony: Some couples prefer the tradition of seeing each other for the first time during the ceremony, making this option less suitable for them.
Harsh Lighting: In summer, the light around mid-morning can be quite harsh, potentially creating unflattering shadows. It’s important to have shaded spots available for photos.
No Rings Yet: During the morning session, the couple doesn’t have their wedding rings yet, which can be an essential detail in the photos.
The Best Approach
For me, the best solution is to have two sessions. A mini session before the ceremony (especially if there's a first look) ensures that we capture beautiful photos regardless of what happens later in the day. Then, a longer session during the golden hour allows us to be more creative and take those breathtaking, wow-factor photos.
Additionally, if there’s a change of attire, it’s crucial to plan a couple's session for each outfit to ensure every look is beautifully documented. This approach maximizes your photo opportunities and ensures that no matter the circumstances, you have a stunning collection of images from your special day.
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