Month Seven: Photography
Your wedding photographer is arguably the most important professional you will hire for your wedding. When the day is over the photographs and your memories are all you have left (in addition to a spouse!) and the photographs will be key to keeping those memories fresh and alive for the years to come.
How photographers charge varies and it can be difficult to compare their services. Some make their money up-front on the wedding day, others are cheaper on the day but make their money on the reprints. You therefore need to know exactly what you are getting and what the reprint prices will be. VOWS award winning Scottish photographer Tom Gibson suggests the best way to know if a photographer is of a required standard is to look at what qualifications they have achieved through professional bodies such as the Master Photographers Association (MPA) or the British Institute of Professional Photographers (BIPP). Membership also ensures photographers are insured for any mishaps during the day. You should then search out a photographer whose images you like on their websites and arrange a visit. Our photography supplier search has dozens of well-qualified and talented photographers throughout Scotland covering all genres of photography and to suit all budgets.
When looking at a photographer's work ask to see albums of whole weddings - not just selections of 'best shots'. You want to feel that the albums capture something of the sprit of the celebration and tell the story of the day. It's also vital that you like your photographer - you will be with them all day. They should make you feel relaxed and at ease.
Natural, reportage or 'documentary' style photography has become
increasingly popular. But that does not mean just point the camera
and see what happens! "Most great wedding images have some direction
by the photographer," says Tom Gibson. "And a good photographer should be
able to produce a set of images of your day covering all genres of
photography. It is also still important to have some formal groups -
although not too many (we normally do about a maximum of 12). Groups can
take a lot of time to put together and must be approached in a structured
manner or they will take over the day." So have a list prepared and
someone allocated to guide the photographer as to who is who. Most weddings
afford a rare opportunity for family group shots that are important for
future generations. So even if you don't want the image for your
mantle-piece, gathering the family together can be important for
posterity.
A great photo backdrop for one iconic image of your day is a must and that
is where the photographer's vision comes into play. "Whilst in Scotland we
are blessed with some of the most beautiful scenery in the world, not all
weddings are held in grand castles in the Highlands." says Tom. "When I am
looking for a backdrop I consider such things as colour, texture and
lighting. The main thing when selecting a backdrop for me is will it adds
to the image. What the photographer includes in the background is as
important as what they leave out." So work together with your
photographer ahead of time to seek out your ideal backdrop, and if it is
outside make sure you have a wet-weather contingency.
One last word of advice: do hire a professional photographer. Enthusiastic amateurs will capture some great shots; but they will not be consistently good. Until next month when we'll be looking at wedding transport, enjoy the journey to your Scottish wedding day!
Wedding Photography Suggested Shot List
- Bride getting ready & bouquets
- Groom, best man & ushers
- Guests' arrival
- Bride's arrival and procession, Ceremony highlights, first kiss and recession
- Formal portraits (bride & groom, bridal party, family groups)
- Receiving line
- Drinks reception highlights
- Details (flowers, table centrepieces, cake)
- Meal highlights
- Speeches/toasts
- Cutting of the cake
- First dance
- Bride and groom's departure
VisitScotland's Wedding Planner
Wedding Top Tips
Month One: Getting Started
Month Two: Finding Your Dream Venue
Month Three: Bridal Wear
Month Four: Deciding Groomswear
Month Five: Wedding Day Food
Month Six: Wedding Day Flowers
Month Eight: Transport
Month Nine: Guests
Month Ten: Hair and Beauty
Month Eleven: The Big Day
Month Twelve: Honeymoon
