CEREMONY
• Most ceremony locations, such as a church, temple or synagogue have rules for photographing in their place of worship. A professional photographer is always respectful of these limitations. After the ceremony, the use of flash and strobe equipment is usually allowed to accommodate the family and formal shots. Be sure you inquire about any restrictions.
• Practice walking in your wedding shoes; you should be able to move freely and without looking awkward. To avoid that new-shoe-slipping feeling, you might want to “scruff” the soles a bit.
• The bride should also practice walking slowly. I see too many brides walk down the aisle very fast (probably out of nervousness) which makes for less photo opportunities – plus, walking slowly adds drama and lets the bride and groom enjoy the moment.
• What do I do with my engagement ring? Generally before the ceremony put your engagement ring on your right hand After the groom puts your wedding band on, you can slip on your engagement ring, although it's best to wait until after the wedding ceremony incase you drop it.Your wedding band should be worn first so that it's closer to your heart.
• Remember to hold the bouquet low and show the pretty neckline of the dress.
• When do I give my bouquet to my maid of honor? Keep hold of your bouquet untill just before you start to exchange Vows, you can hand her your bouquet. Your maid of honour can bring your bouquet up to you when your marriage certificate is being signed and will hand it over to you after you have finished signing. Try and remember to place your bouquet with the heads of the flowers outwards for the photographer, as the photographs look so much nicer.
• If your wedding will incorporate special cultural or religious elements, talk to your photographer about the moments during which you would like photos taken or not. With a little advanced warning, she can be prepared to capture the important events of the ceremony.
• Traditionally, the bride walks on her father’s left side. If the bride has a long train, you might want to consider being on your father’s right side so that he doesn’t have to walk around your train to take his seat.
• Traditionally speaking, a ceremony before 4 p.m. is considered daytime. A ceremony after 4 p.m. is an evening affair.
• Throwing a surprise or two into your wedding or reception helps to keep a magical, spontaneous atmosphere. For example, there might be a special vocal performance, or candle lighting that you have planned. And, some brides like to slip out of the reception to change dresses and return with a grand entrance to dance the night away. Just be sure to let your photographer in on the secret! Otherwise, you may miss what can be the best candid photos in your wedding or reception.
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