Your Cheshire and Merseyside Wedding - May/June 2023 (Issue 69)

their chosen images on Instagram. Look at weddings at venues similar to your own that were captured at the same time of year as your big day to get the clearest idea of style.” Still confused? Jessica gives us some clues on identifying your perfect match: “If photos not just of you both but of those celebrating with you are important, consider a photographer with a laid back, fun, documentary approach; or if you want to feel like movie stars for the day, consider a photographer with a romantic, posed, stylish, editorial portfolio. Alternatively, if you’re super-traditional, then perhaps look for a photographer who’ll capture your day very formally. Editing style will vary too, so think about what you like. You will come across very colourful, fun portfolios, bright and beautiful, cinematic and urban, romantic and rustic, even a few combined.” JUST THE TWO OF US If you’re not a fan of being in front of the camera, the idea of an engagement shoot, if offered it by your wedding photographer, may be something you’d rather run away from. But we’d highly recommend taking them up on their offer, and here’s why. Jessica explains, “I love engagement or pre-wedding shoots, they truly take away any awkwardness that you may feel about being photographed. It also gives you some quality time with your photographer allowing you to experience first hand how they work and they can get an idea of how the two of you are in front of the camera. And as a bonus, you get some fabulous images to cherish.” Jaine shares: “Some make an additional charge, while others (like myself) include engagement shoots as part of the service. Bear in mind that if you book a photographer from miles away it’s going to be difficult to arrange this confidence building shoot.” We agree, keep it local! IN THE PICTURE While any photographer worth their salt will be more than adept at capturing your big day to perfection, they’re not mind readers. So, providing them with short list of must-have subjects is advisable. Kevin says, “We always ask our couples for their must-have shots, as there are usually relatives or friends who’ve travelled a long way to be there.” Similarly, Jessica says, “If your photographer is prepared and aware of who you’d like in your formals, it makes everything so much less stressful on the day. For any moments unique to your wedding or of significant importance to you, keep your photographer in the loop and communicate this to them. A little heads up can make everyone’s life easier.” PLANNED TO PERFECTION In preparation for the big day, you’ll need to discuss with your photographer detailed timings of how your day will unfold. Jaine explains, “We run through a timetable together and agree a plan two months prior, before sending it on to the necessary suppliers: venue, make-up artist, hair stylist etc. This ensures that on the day, everything runs smoothly and you can relax and enjoy it.” Jessica is of the same mind: “Your venue will likely discuss an allocated time slot that your photographer will be given to get their key images, typically during the drinks reception before you all sit down to eat. Be sure to check this works with your photographer as you don’t want to feel rushed and clash with your caterers.” “A wedding day is like a relay. We all have our part to play and getting it right from the start allows the day to flow in a relaxed manner.” – Jaine Briscoe-Price Photography ON THE BIG DAY SEEING DOUBLE Some photographers will offer you the opportunity of booking a second shooter, and now you’ve arrived at the big day, you’ll see just how invaluable they can be. Kevin, who nearly always works together with his wife Carole, explains, “It’s great to have certain aspects of the day shot from different angles at the same time. Carole is not only a great photographer in her own right, but very in tune with our couples.” Jaine too is an advocate for this approach: “I feel a second photographer is vital. They cover such different angles and at different times. Plus, if the day is running late, they can shoot detail imagery or www.kevinbrownphotography.co.uk www.kevinbrownphotography.co.uk www.kevinbrownphotography.co.uk https://jessicalangphotography.co.uk 44

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