Impromptu Poses & Picturesque Portraits

Rob and Ayla are in the process of searching for a wedding photographer. It is an important part of weddings as it seems every single aspect of the preparation, ceremony and reception are captured in pictures, so you want a quality photographer. At the same time, couples will spend thousands of dollars on pictures they may look at once a year if they're lucky for the rest of their marriage. Friends who've been married a long time said what's most important is getting that picture of the two of you together after the wedding. You have to ask yourselves, "Do I want to spend thousands of dollars for a photo album?" because truly that is what it's for. So be fiscally responsible is making your photographer decision. Get a good one, but don't break your budget for it.

No matter who you get for your photographer, it is wise to make a list of the photos that are important to you. You may want specific poses with the bridal party and family members, candid shots, action shots or clever pics for thank yous and social media. So take the time to make up a list and keep it handy. If it's not something you particularly want to stay on top of, you may want to ask someone to keep the list for you during the wedding and keep track of what you have yet to get photographed.

We figure the traditional shots are assumed: couple, bridal party, families, father escorting daughter down the aisle, ceremony highlights, kiss, toast, cake cutting, first dance, father/daughter dance, bouquet/garter toss, etc, so those will go without saying. And many wedding magazines, websites and planners have photo check lists available. We looked up some information to see what other ideas you might want on your list.

1) Some recommend getting a picture of the wedding dress by itself. Personally I don't get that as you'll be wearing it in every photo, so why have a shot of a dress hanging? A close up of the shoes or putting on the garter, I get that ... they won't be seen in most photos. Also, close ups of things like the bouquet, boutonnieres, rings, centerpieces, cake, etc. You may want a visual of all those things to remember.

2) Pictures of you with your bridal party members together and individually. The together shot is pretty much just for you. Know that each person may want an individual picture of themselves with you. Typically, they probably will not want a bridal party picture unless they know everyone in the photo (pretty rare occurrence), but they will want one with just you. If several in the bridal party are friends, bring that group together for a shot as well. Have fun with these - one posed, one relaxed or even goofy.

4) Groom at the altar. Capturing that emotion as he sees his bride for the first time is a treasure. Lots of couples do the "first look" so it can be something between them both privately and so they can shoot pictures of the couple before the wedding instead of after to save time. However, while the tradition part doesn't have much weight perhaps, you still aren't even married then, so why shoot pictures together?

5) 28 minutes/28 years - a personal plug for Daddy and I since Rob and Ayla are getting married on our anniversary. :)

Some clever ideas we saw ...

1) Bridesmaids and brides from behind with their arms around their waists.
2) Groomsmen with superhero T-shirts under their tuxes.
3) Candid Daddy/Daughter shot before walking down the aisle.
4) Anything with a windswept veil.
5) All the bridemaids' bouquets held around the bride's bouquet. We even saw one where the last name initial was made by the bouquets.
6) The bride and groom praying together before the wedding with a door or wall between them so they don't see each other.

  Maybe even take some time coming up with your own ideas for wedding shots you love that will incorporate things unique to you as a couple ... and have fun. This is one time in your life where not only will you be making memories, but will have gobs of pictures to prove it.

Discussion: What is a photo pose you must have? Do you have a clever idea for a wedding picture?

Prayer: Lord, we ask for discernment in selecting a photographer. We pray for a talented photographer of integrity who will be affordable and fun. Thank you in advance, Father, for your guidance. In Jesus, Amen.