ENGAGING MOMENTS
So long matching outfits. So long head tilt and smile. So long studio backdrops circa 1996.
These days, engagement photos are clicking with the times and opting for creativity over conventionalism. From the charming Park City streets to the radiant rock walls of the Shops at Riverwoods, couples are taking advantage of unexpected poses in local hot spots.
But before you trek outward, be sure to look inward.
“Not everyone can take their engagements on train tracks,” says McKenzie Deakins of Photography by McKenzie. “We need to find a style or location that will match both personalities.”
Once a location and style are determined, it’s time to talk clothes. McKenzie suggests coming to the shoot dressed up — and dressed down.
“I usually have the couple change from their casual look to a formal look,” she says. “It adds contrast to their poses as well as a different emotion.”
If it fits your style, McKenzie also recommends wearing standout colors and head-turning jewelry. And even if you’re not a makeup maven, McKenzie suggests brushing up for the special occasion.
“Brides should wear more makeup than normal, or even have a professional do the makeup,” she says. “It’s worth the money for the close-ups.”
But most importantly, plan to be candid.
“It’s a little bit of an oxymoron, but I always say I pose some of my favorite candid shots,” McKenzie says. “I put the couple in a position and then tell them to laugh or whisper something horrid in the other’s ear. That’s when the magic happens.”
HERE COMES THE BRIDAL
Bridal portraits have taken quite the journey over the years. From formal in-studio shots to casual poses across town, local brides have redefined tradition.
“The options are endless,” says Ashlee Clark of Ashlee Elizabeth Photography. “Bridals are a great opportunity to let your personality shine through.”
With endless options and shining potential, Ashlee suggests seven tips for bridal success.
Location
“The type of location will determine the type of photos we’ll take, whether it’s gorgeous landscaping or an urban backdrop,” Ashlee says. “Location is the first and most important thing I discuss with my brides. Everything else comes after.”
Come prepared “A lot of times you get caught up in things during the shoot and forget about specific poses or ideas. So it can be helpful to write them down beforehand. The More the Merrier “I usually have the bride bring someone — a mom or a friend. It makes everyone feel more comfortable.”
Groomal Time “Most of my brides are bringing the groom with them,” Ashlee says. “The wedding day is usually jam-packed, and the groomal helps us get the shots we need in an un-rushed environment.”
Bring a bouquet “Don’t forget to bring a bouquet,” she says. “Not only are flowers always a beautiful addition, it gives the bride something to do with her hands.”
Bring a Towel “It’s helpful for not getting your dress dirty during the shoot.”
Don’t be nervous “Try not to be shy. You want your personality to shine through as much as possible, so come prepared to be yourself and have fun,” Ashlee says.
PORTRAIT OF A WEDDING
After you’ve posed for engagements and bridals, it’s time to show them off. The pictures are a great way to decorate your reception — and help guests get to know the happy couple.
“There are lots of ways to display your pictures,” says Meredith Carlson of Meredith Carlson Photography. “There’s the classic, big easel framed shots, which are always beautiful, as well as bridal albums for guests to look through. Don’t be afraid to be creative.”
But most importantly, be sure to communicate with your photographer.
“I sit down with my brides when they sign the contract and we go over what they might want displayed at the reception,” Meredith says. “It takes time, especially with bridals, to get pictures back from the printer, so you want to be sure and plan ahead.”
Meredith suggests taking your bridals a month before the wedding — three weeks at the latest — to ensure smooth timing.
MAKE YOUR DAY
This is it. The big day. The wedding day.
It’s the day you’ll remember for the rest of your life — and your pictures will be the very thing jogging your memory.
“The wedding day is obviously so important,” says Angie Andrews of Sweet Memory Garden. “As the photographer, I want to know everything I can to make it the perfect day.”
And perfection requires communication. Angie suggests getting candid with your photographer about the following:
Style “What are you looking for?” Angie says. “Do you want traditional shots or candid? What’s most important to you? If I know your style, I know how to get the shots you want.”
Timing “Timing is huge,” she says. “In an ideal world, I’d have two hours between the ceremony and the reception. That gives us enough time to do family pictures and then shots of the bride and groom. The last thing you want to do is rush.”
Relationships “It’s helpful to know the family dynamics,” Angie says. “If there are any conflicts between family members or parents, it’s always good to know.”
Who’s Who “If there are certain family members or guests you want me to highlight — tell me.”
Weather “Look ahead at the weather forecast — especially with an outdoor reception,” Angie says. “We’ll want to know if we need to make backup plans. The more prepared we can be together, the better.”
IN LIVING MEMORY
The glasses have been clinked, the rose petals have been thrown, and the last photo has been snapped.
Now it’s time to immortalize the moments.
Wedding albums are the perfect end to the perfect day, and there are a variety of options to choose from.
Talk with your photographer about what types of albums are offered when you go in for your consultation. Find out what comes with your package and ask to see samples of past albums. It’ll give you a great idea of the pages you’ll be cooing over for years to come.
