Contact Information:
Website: Colin Hayden Photo
Email: colin@colinhaydenphoto.com
Phone: 610-804-8341
Instagram: @colinhaydenphoto
How to Capture Your Wedding Day Details Perfectly
The beauty of a wedding is often found in the little things—the intricate lace on your dress, the delicate floral arrangements, the handwritten vows, and all the personal touches that make your day unique. Capturing these details is essential, as they tell the story of your wedding in a way that brings you back to each moment. Here’s how to make sure all those special details are perfectly captured on your wedding day!
1. Gather the Essentials
Before your photographer arrives, gather together the important details that mean the most to you. Think about your wedding rings, invitations, jewelry, shoes, perfume, and any other personal items you’ll want to remember. It’s helpful to place everything in a small box or designated area so that your photographer can easily access it and get those beautiful detail shots without interrupting your getting-ready time.
2. Don’t Forget Your Bouquet and Boutonnieres
Florals play a huge part in the look and feel of a wedding day, so having your bouquet and boutonnieres ready for photos early on is key. If you have a special ribbon or a sentimental charm attached to your bouquet, these little details can make for stunning, emotional photos that hold meaning for years to come.
3. Consider Lighting
Good lighting makes all the difference in capturing details. Natural light works beautifully, so if possible, set aside a well-lit space near a window for these shots. Your photographer will know how to make the most of any space, but keeping lighting in mind can help your details look their best.
4. Think About Personal Touches
Are there heirloom items, handmade details, or meaningful gifts you’d like captured? These personal items add so much to the story of your wedding day, whether it’s your grandmother’s necklace or handwritten vows. Let your photographer know about these sentimental pieces so they don’t miss any special shots.
5. Trust Your Photographer
The best way to ensure that every detail is captured is to work with a photographer who understands the importance of these moments. During our pre-wedding consultation, we’ll discuss the details that mean the most to you and make a list to prioritize them on the day. This way, you can relax knowing nothing will be overlooked.
Capture Memories to Cherish
Your wedding day details represent the heart and soul you’ve poured into planning your celebration. By setting aside time for these detail shots, you’re creating memories you’ll be able to revisit in your photos for years to come. If you’re ready to capture every cherished detail with intention and care, let’s connect to make sure your wedding story is beautifully told from start to finish!
Ready to plan the photography for your big day? Reach out today, and let’s start making your wedding memories unforgettable.
Contact Information:
Website: Colin Hayden Photo
Email: colin@colinhaydenphoto.com
Phone: 610-804-8341
Instagram: @colinhaydenphoto
Marci and Rob’s Unforgettable Wedding at Philadelphia Distilling
Contact Information:
Website: Colin Hayden Photo
Email: colin@colinhaydenphoto.com
Phone: 610-804-8341
Instagram: @colinhaydenphoto
How to Make the Most of Your Wedding Photography Timeline + FREE GUIDE
Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life, and you want every moment to be beautifully captured. But ensuring that your photos reflect the joy and magic of the day requires careful planning. A well-structured photography timeline not only helps to capture those picture-perfect moments but also makes your day stress-free. Here’s how you can make the most of your wedding photography timeline to get the best results and enjoy your big day.
Start with the Must-Have Shots
Before you start building your timeline, think about the specific moments you want to be photographed. From getting ready with your bridal party to the ceremony and reception details, make a list of all the key events you want documented. Discuss these with your photographer so that nothing important is missed.
Some key moments to consider:
Getting Ready: Capturing the anticipation as you and your bridal party get dressed.
First Look: If you’re doing one, make sure to schedule enough time for this emotional moment.
Family Portraits: These can take more time than expected, especially with larger families.
Golden Hour: If your venue has outdoor spaces, plan for couple portraits during the golden hour—just before sunset when the light is soft and romantic.
Give Yourself Extra Time
Weddings rarely run perfectly on schedule, so build in extra time between events. If a part of the day takes longer than expected, having extra cushion time prevents stress and keeps things moving smoothly.
For example:
Getting Ready: Hair and makeup often run over, so give yourself an additional 30 minutes just in case.
Travel: If your ceremony and reception are in different locations, account for travel time, and add a buffer for any unexpected delays.
Group Photos: Wrangling family and friends for group photos can take longer than you think, so add 10-15 minutes more than you expect.
By planning ahead and allowing for extra time, you can stay relaxed knowing everything is under control.
Plan Around Natural Light
Lighting is crucial to beautiful wedding photos, and natural light is your best friend. If possible, schedule outdoor portraits when the light is softest—early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Midday sun can be harsh, so avoid planning outdoor photos during that time if possible.
The best time for those romantic, glowing photos is during the Golden Hour, typically 30 minutes before sunset. Be sure to build this time into your schedule if your venue has a scenic outdoor space.
Consider a First Look
If you’re tight on time, consider doing a first look. It’s a great way to get some of the photos done before the ceremony, so you have more time to enjoy your cocktail hour and reception. This intimate moment also allows for relaxed, emotional shots in a private setting.
Having a first look can also free up more time for other important photos, like wedding party and family portraits, making your post-ceremony timeline smoother and less rushed.
Work with Your Photographer to Build the Timeline
Collaborating with your photographer is key to creating a realistic and efficient timeline. Based on their experience, your photographer can help you figure out how much time you’ll need for each part of the day. This helps ensure that no moment is missed, from getting ready to the grand exit!
A good wedding photographer should know how long it takes to gather everyone for family photos or capture details like table settings. By working together, you can create a plan that captures everything you want, without feeling rushed.
Download My Sample Wedding Day Schedule
To help make planning easier, I’ve created a Sample Wedding Day Photography Schedule that outlines ideal times for each part of your day, from prep to portraits to the reception. It’s a stress-free guide to ensuring every important moment is beautifully captured.
Planning your wedding day timeline doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a well-thought-out schedule, built-in buffers, and collaboration with your photographer, you can enjoy every moment while creating stunning, timeless photos. Let’s work together to make your day as smooth and unforgettable as possible! Reach out today to chat about your wedding photography vision and how we can bring it to life.
Contact Information:
Website: Colin Hayden Photo
Email: colin@colinhaydenphoto.com
Phone: 610-804-8341
Instagram: @colinhaydenphoto
The First Look: Should You Do One or Stick to Tradition?
One of the decisions couples face when planning their wedding day timeline is whether to have a “first look” or stick to the traditional aisle reveal. The first look, where the couple sees each other before the ceremony, has become increasingly popular in recent years. But is it right for you? Let’s explore the pros and cons of both options to help you decide what fits your vision for your wedding day.
The Traditional Aisle Moment
Traditionally, couples don’t see each other until the bride walks down the aisle. For many, this moment is filled with anticipation, excitement, and emotion.
Pros:
Heightened Emotions: The traditional aisle moment is iconic. There's something magical about seeing your partner waiting at the end of the aisle, surrounded by loved ones. The anticipation builds all day, leading to a breathtaking moment full of raw emotion.
Keeps Tradition Alive: For those who value tradition or want to keep a sense of formality, waiting until the ceremony can feel like a meaningful continuation of age-old wedding customs.
Shared with Guests: If you love the idea of sharing this big reveal with your guests, the aisle moment allows your friends and family to witness your partner’s reaction as you walk toward each other.
Cons:
Tight Timeline: If you choose to stick to tradition, your couple’s portraits and full wedding party photos will need to be squeezed into a limited amount of time between the ceremony and reception. This can be stressful if the schedule is tight or if you're aiming for a variety of photos.
Less Time Together: Without a first look, the first time you’re really together on your wedding day will be at the ceremony, which can leave you feeling rushed to fit in quality time.
The First Look
The first look is a more modern option, where the couple shares a private moment before the ceremony to see each other for the first time. It's often more intimate and can take some pressure off the rest of the day.
Pros:
More Time Together: Your wedding day goes by quickly! A first look gives you a quiet moment together before the ceremony, allowing you to enjoy each other’s presence before the whirlwind of events begins.
Calm Your Nerves: If you or your partner tends to get anxious, a first look can help ease those jitters. Seeing each other in a private setting can be a comforting way to relax before walking down the aisle.
More Photos, Less Stress: One of the biggest benefits of a first look is the flexibility it gives your timeline. You can knock out some of your portraits, wedding party photos, and even family shots before the ceremony. This means less rushing around after the ceremony and more time to enjoy your cocktail hour.
Private, Intimate Moment: Unlike the aisle moment, the first look allows you to experience your partner’s reaction in a quiet, personal setting. You can talk, laugh, cry, and really soak in the moment without the eyes of your guests on you.
Cons:
Less Anticipation at the Ceremony: One potential downside is that the traditional aisle reveal might feel less impactful since you’ve already seen each other. However, many couples find that the ceremony still feels emotional and special, even after a first look.
Breaks with Tradition: If you’re someone who loves the idea of keeping with wedding traditions, the first look may not feel as aligned with your vision.
Which One is Right for You?
Ultimately, deciding between a first look or waiting for the traditional aisle moment comes down to your personal preferences and priorities for your wedding day. If you love the idea of a private, calming moment with your partner and want a relaxed timeline, a first look might be perfect. But if you’re excited about building anticipation and sharing that special moment with your guests, sticking to tradition can create a magical ceremony reveal.
Whatever you choose, I’ll be there to capture the raw emotion and joy, ensuring that your special moment—whether it’s down the aisle or before the ceremony—is preserved in timeless, beautiful images.
Still deciding on your wedding day timeline? Let’s chat! I’m here to help you craft a photography plan that fits your vision and captures all the magic of your big day. Contact me today to get started!
Contact Information:
Website: Colin Hayden Photo
Email: colin@colinhaydenphoto.com
Phone: 610-804-8341
Instagram: @colinhaydenphoto