by Benjamin Buren
Capturing the essence of that special day in a couple’s life is often filled with concerns. After all, one doesn’t really know what they’re going to get until the event is over. The wedding album should be filled with images of events that led up to that big day as well as captured that moment in time when so much love and joy filled the air it was palpable. One way to end up with an album that will be treasured is by selecting wedding portrait photography over more traditional options.
When working with a professional in this field it’s important to find out if they would be will to participate in pre-wedding celebrations as well. Since the focus of this art form is on close-up shots of those involved in order to capture their expressions, the more exposure they get with those of key interest who will be in attendance, the better the shots will be on the big day. Posed shots of the bride with her relatives as well as groom with his, the bride and groom together, the wedding party, and relatives will all become key elements of any album.
This field of photography is specialized and requires an excellent eye as well as the right equipment and an innate ability to capture the moment. This also requires some consideration by those in attendance as ensuring one’s makeup and hair are perfect will ensure that photos come out as desired. Photos can be taken in a studio or on sight but, often, a combination between the two generates the best results.
Lighting and background have much to do with how photos turn out. These professionals are well aware of it’s importance and, therefore, have contingency plans that will ensure the shots desired some out perfect. They know that if shooting outdoors excessive sunlight or fading light can impact the quality of products. Additionally, candlelit interior spaces can be just as problematic. Much of this is due to the shadows and reflections case by various lighting sources. They know, however, that they have one chance to get it perfect and they make every effort to achieve that goal.
There are many pre-wedding and wedding day activities that one will want to capture on film. For some it will be the rehearsal dinner, while for others shots of the bride and groom getting ready and relaxing with attendants will be important. For still others cutting the cake, toasting, the candle lighting ceremony and, of course, that first big kiss all hold special meaning. There can never be recaptured in the way there occurred on that day. Therefore, it’s important that the photographer be fully briefed on expectations.
Ensuring the photographer is familiar with the setting, time of day, and even what to expect during the proposed time of year can have a big impact on the lighting and availability of the perfect photo settings. Much photography expected during a wedding are candid shots, but it’s the portraits that really show the beauty of the couple and the day. These are often set up so making sure the photographer understands exactly which formal shots are needed can be important to achieving desired results.
There are many opportunities to turn a candid shot into a portrait. The bride looking out the window with the sheer curtains billowing in the breeze, the bride’s mother helping her with her veil, the bride’s father taking his daughters arm in his and giving her a quick peck on the cheek, and many more opportunities will be available to a good portrait photographer that has experience and talent on their side.
Researching the local options and viewing portfolios is a very important first step. Price point is also important. Wedding portrait photography has a tendency to be slightly more expensive, but the quality of work is often worth the extra few dollars paid for the creativity and talent. Once the day is over and one looks back on the photos the only thing that will matter is how well the day was captured on film because, in the long run, memories fade, but photo images last forever.
Tags: Arts & Entertainment by Rob Jones
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