ALMetro360

what we signed up for when we chose that profession so expecting the unexpected is normal. Because there are so many other reasons that a couple choose the location and time we often have to “fit in where we can get in.” Sometimes I have couples ask my advice about time of day and I am always honest in my opinions. If they live for the pictures then they might even consider bumping their time back or moving it up. The things that can affect outdoor wedding photos most are light, wind (who wants blowing hair and dresses?) and of course weather conditions. During the inter- view mention to your prospective photographer any such ideas you have and get their opinion on it. Most will be glad to oblige. For indoor weddings the challenges are not quite as numerous. There are some techniques for “less than ideal” looking things in the environment. Some are as simple as hiding them behind the subject and others require some technical adjustments at capture time or in post work. Hannah: Timing and location is extremely important when taking portraits. Photographers are always looking for beautiful backgrounds to take their clients. But what's even more important is the lighting. Lighting can make or break a portrait. Include your photographers when planning your ceremony time. Photographers need plenty of time before and after the ceremony to get all neces- sary photos, and when the sun has already set, it makes things very challenging! ALMetro360: What does the bride need to communicate to the wedding party in order to insure the photographs get taken in a timely manner AND look great or should she leave that up to her photographer? Darren: This is multi-faceted question. If the day is balanced correctly (makeup, dresses, flowers) are all present and on time you can avoid most of the causes for not starting pictures on time. Occasionally there will be a late attendant or two and that is some- thing that the couple could address at the rehearsal so that it is fresh in their heads to be on time. Once photos start the photog- rapher can take it from there. Again, having a timeline for photos helps to keep things on track. I can remember when I did a wedding where the father of the bride was so overjoyed that he had to take a moment to get himself together. The emotion of that moment (captured of course) was priceless. The ceremony started a little late but it was worth it from my point of view. Sometimes the little things that go wrong or awry can be the most memorable. Hannah: Always share your timeline with all wedding party and family members. Most photographers make a specific timeline which indicates when and where wedding party photos start. It's so important for wedding party members to be dressed and ready, when it is their turn for portraits! It's also crucial to communicate these times with your hair and makeup artists. If the bridal party gets behind in hair and makeup — it can make the whole day run behind. ALMetro360: What new trends are you seeing in wedding photography that you are most excited about? Darren: There was an article titled “Trendy vs. Timeless.” In the article it talks about balancing the two so that your pictures look as good in the future as they do today. Anyone remember those special effects digital filters and cheesy poses that were all the craze? Well, keep that in mind today. It’s ok to time stamp your wedding based on current trends, just don’t go overboard. What I am most excited about today is the fact that people are super enthusiastic about taking pictures and are allowing photog- raphers the room to express their creativity in so many ways. When someone says something is trendy, I would like to think of them as ideas that can be built upon to create new ones. ALMetro360: What trends are you glad to see disappearing in wedding photography? Darren: I have a list but I think it’s best not to reveal at this time. Some trends from 20 years ago are still out there. Maybe they should not go away they just need a new spin on them. Art builds on art so let them stay. Well, maybe not all…. Hannah: Cheesy props and overly posed images! Most of my couples want classic imagery and beautiful candid moments in their wedding galleries — which I love! n Find us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter WEDDING ISSUE 2021 45