Your wedding is getting closer, and among everything you are planning, one thing will last longer than the flowers, the food or the music: your photos. Years from now, they are how you will travel back to this day.
The good news is that a few simple decisions before the wedding can make a big difference. Here is how to have better wedding photos, based on what I have learned photographing weddings in Puerto Vallarta.
1. Plan Around the Light
Light is everything in photography. Midday sun is harsh and creates strong shadows, while the hour before sunset is soft, warm and flattering. If you can, schedule your ceremony and portraits for the late afternoon. My Puerto Vallarta wedding timeline guide shows how to do it.
2. Get Ready in a Room With Good Light
Getting-ready photos look best in a clean, bright room with big windows. Keep the space tidy, set aside the details you want photographed (dress, rings, shoes, invitations) and leave enough time so it does not feel rushed.
3. Coordinate, Don’t Match
For the wedding party and family, a coordinated color palette looks more elegant than identical outfits. Choose two or three colors that work with your venue. For beach weddings, these tips on what to wear to a beach wedding help.
4. Make a Short Family Photo List
Write down the family combinations you want and share them with your photographer. A short list keeps the formal photos quick, so you can get back to your guests.
5. Don’t Try to Impress, Just Be Yourselves
The best photos come from real emotions, not from perfect poses. Focus on each other, have fun and let your photographer guide you. If you want inspiration anyway, here are 50 wedding photo ideas.
6. Enjoy the Day
Your mood shows in every photo. Delegate problems to your planner or a trusted friend, eat something, drink water and remember why you are celebrating. Relaxed couples always look better on camera.
7. Plan a Post-Wedding Session
A session a day or two after the wedding, without guests or schedules, gives you time to relax and get creative. A trash the dress photoshoot is one of my favorite ways to do it.
Choose a Photographer You Trust
All these tips work best with a photographer who knows the area and makes you feel comfortable. Here is how to choose a wedding photographer. If you are getting married in Puerto Vallarta, I would love to hear about your plans.
