She Strengthens

The Real Story Behind Wedding Planning: Insights from a Seasoned Photographer

When it comes to weddings, we often get caught up in the romanticized version portrayed on TV and social media. But the reality is that wedding planning can be a complex and stressful process. To get a better understanding of what makes a wedding successful, I sat down with Connor, a seasoned wedding photographer with years of experience behind the lens.

Stress Levels: The Key to a Smooth Wedding

According to Connor, the key to a successful wedding is managing stress levels. “If the clients are stressed, they’re going to act stressed, and that’s going to be reflected in the images,” he says. A laid-back and flexible bride is more likely to have a successful and enjoyable wedding day.

The Importance of Structure

Another crucial element is having a clear plan and structure in place. Without it, the day can quickly descend into chaos. “If you’re not making it clear to your guests what’s happening and when, then you’re going to have a rough day,” Connor warns. This is where hiring an event planner can be invaluable.

The Frustrating World of Guest Photographers

One of the most challenging aspects of Connor’s job is dealing with guests who bring their own cameras and feel the need to capture every moment. This can lead to awkwardness, confusion, and even slow down the posed photo process. “It’s frustrating because it affects my ability to do my job,” Connor explains.

The Ideal Couple

So, what makes an ideal couple to work with? According to Connor, it’s those who are comfortable in front of the camera, unafraid to be expressive, and trust him to do his job. “I love shooting couples that are just clearly in love,” he says. “That emotion can come through and make a photograph beautiful, regardless of other factors.”

Wedding Planning Disasters

Connor has seen his fair share of wedding planning disasters, from inaccessible locations to inadequate seating and logistical nightmares. One particular wedding stands out in his mind, where the bride left an extremely inadequate amount of time for hair and makeup, resulting in a delayed ceremony and a stressful day.

Rustic Charm

When it comes to his favorite style of wedding to shoot, Connor is a fan of the rustic look. “It’s laid-back, artistic, and romantic,” he says. “It’s very photogenic!”

Predicting Success

Can Connor tell from the consultation stage if a wedding is going to be successful? Absolutely. “I can usually tell after a discussion with a potential client,” he says. “I get a sense of how much planning they’ve done and how much energy they’re going to put into following through on their vision.”

Advice for Brides

So, what’s Connor’s biggest piece of advice for brides? Relax. “They’ve been planning this day for the better part of a year,” he says. “When it gets down to the wire, everything is pretty much out of their control. And that’s okay.” By focusing on the moment and letting go of perfection, brides can ensure that their photos are filled with love, laughter, and joy.