Wedding Photo Location(s) Advice
Simplicity and variety is best, in my opinion.
We really want to optimize the space or places we are working with.
If we will not be leaving the ceremony/reception site, typically, there still is a lot I can do as a photographer on the grounds for a variety of looks. As soon as I arrive and through out the day, I’m always scoping out areas that might be nice as a backdrop or scene.
I encourage the bride and groom to go on a walk with me. This gives them time to enjoy each other’s company and a quiet break from the busy day - and typically on our walk, we end up finding some great spots to take photos.
In the event where we end going off premises, I often suggest choosing at least (2) locations of very different features - such as a place with a lot of greenery/nature and then maybe something industrial/urban or structural buildings with clean lines. Or maybe, an open field/dirt road, barn/stonework then snowy pines. We want the background to be a visually beautiful and interesting spot and compliment the couple well.
I love when clients find their own locations that they find awesome and/or hold a meaning of importance or joy to them. Yet, I’m always excited if I’m asked for my opinion for a place or two.
It’s all about brainstorming and getting creative - that’s where I come in! I’m more than happy to help.
As Told By a Photographer: Aiding the Aesthetics of Your Wedding
My job as a photographer is to help others feel comfortable in front of the camera, offer advice on posing and repositioning, capture candid moments and cull typically at minimum 2,000 - 3,000 wedding photos to edit and provide the best 10%.
Here are five factors I feel make a substantial difference with how “pretty” your photos turn out.
1.) Opt for real flowers
I’m a bit of a snob in this department - but I really do appreciate how beautifully they photograph. However, don’t let this deter you - it’s great seeing people get creative with other mediums.
2.) Consider hiring a decorator
Trust me - the pros know what they’re doing.
3.) Treat yo’ self
Say yes to pampering, professional hair and make up.
Gentlemen, consider getting a haircut or trim your beard/facial hair to your liking.
Reasons I suggest this:
1.) Think of it as: one less thing to worry about and time to relax.
2.) It makes a huge difference for photos.
.
4.) Location, Location, Location
Think of what the background will be when deciding on your wedding venue.
Does it correspond with your visionary goal(s)? Will it photograph well?
5.) Be True to You
The best advice I can give when planning:
It’s your day. The celebration of you and your partner.
Modify as you see fit.
Please, do things to your liking and style.
That is what I enjoy most- seeing personalities and love showcased and celebrated.
Cheers!
More than just Bride & Groom portraits
A time of celebration and joy, naturally at weddings, we’re sure to allocate time for bride & groom portraits - however it’s nearly impossible to not capture portraits of other people at the event too!! What can we say!?!! You all are just so photogenic and fun.
*kindly holding the ladies’ bouquets for them
*groomsman striking a pose for the camera while staging a photo set up for the newlyweds
*modeling those sunnies perfectly
*taken while a friend was taking a photo with their phone
*you taking photos is part of the day! so we love incorporating some images like this.
*getting ready too!
*ring bearer portrait
*this young lady really wanted to take a photo of the bride & groom so i let her!
*flower girl
*i truly believe all couples deserve a professional photo of them! so if you see me at an event, please, allow me! here: the father and mother of a bride.
*cigar candid groomsmen image
*yes! pets, esp. yours on your wedding day, need solo photos too.
*a second shooter captured this gem - love the creativity of the framing.
2019 Recap
Although, I primarily specialize in wedding photography - this year has been filled with a variety of other special sessions too.
Lifestyle photography/baby announcement, pet, and family sessions.
Thank you for the love and support in 2019.
Excited to see what 2020 has in store!
How to Get Great Photos*
*Trust the professional you hired.
It really is that simple.
Here is a November wedding from several years ago.
Happy Anniversary to them!
Before & After - Wedding Edits
I want to be completely transparent with revealing, and it should come at no surprise, that some images require more editing than others.
Sometimes, I only have to make a few minor adjustments.
It’s called balance.
:)
Here are some images and edits from a Labor Day weekend wedding.
(The photos which have a black and white edit - the color image is the original and hasn’t been edited)
Enjoy!!
Which season/month should you get married?
So you thought - just maybe, you’d open this blog and I’d answer that question ..
however scroll to the bottom of the photos and you’ll find your answer.
No one is telling you who to marry, that’s something you decide - the same goes with the day, month, year, season you chose.
I love all seasons & all love.
Think of me as your friend - if you call me up (or email!) and I’m available - I’ll be there and I’d be more than happy to capture and witness the two of you exchanging vows and sharing happiness.
In case you haven’t made up your mind yet - here are photo examples from all 4 seasons to help with the brainstorming.
Best of luck with your decision making!
What month would you prefer to get married in?
Already married? Would you stick with the same season or a different one? Why?
Fall*
Winter*
Spring*
Summer*
Do what you want.*
Pinterest - Less Imitation, More Inspiration
At the start of my career, I’d request a '“shot list” from my clients. I’d even provide an example for them to tailor to their liking.
With experience came effectiveness.
I found that most of those must have shots such as the first kiss as a married couple and cutting the cake, I’d naturally find myself documenting.
Over the years, my work process changed.
I went from an entire page shot list to only requesting 5 “must have” shots along with a list of groups for formals. Let me tell you, that has worked wonderfully for both clients and the photographers.
It allows people relax more, and allows us to capture real, authentic moments and emotions as they happen.
In conclusion, you heard that right, I only ask for 5 must have shots.
In the beginning, brides would send me their Pinterest boards - then, I received less and less of that because my clients hired me to see my work, not others.
What tends to work best is sending a few example photos you love along with what you like best about that image: ie. the lighting, the pose, the angle
I will tell you what I have told all clients since the beginning:
“Pinterest is great as inspiration, not imitation. Let’s make this image your own.”
Trust in the professional you hired. Be yourself. It’s that simple when it comes to getting wedding photos you love.
Below you’ll see how one must have, Pinterest inspired shot evolved into a series of photos.
Enjoy!
Finding the Right Photographer for You
Since the very beginning, my policy has always been to never push my photography services onto anyone.
I prefer to allow my images to do the talking.
Whenever someone inquires about my services, I encourage them to look at my portfolio;
and if they like what they see, to contact me.
Hear me out:
I would absolutely love to photograph your wedding.
However:
More than anything I want you to have the style of images you’re looking for.
AS a professional and artist:
I understand that it is subjective.
Some like bright and “airy”, earthy, moody, minimally/realistically retouched, the list goes on and on.
The questions to ask yourself are: What are you drawn to? What do you prefer? What would you like for your wedding collection?
Other important factors on finding your photographer:
Does your quote include printing rights? Digital downloads?
Do you want a second photographer? Can they provide one?
Are they experienced?
Do they have backup equipment?
Require a signed contract?
Are you at ease/are they enjoyable to be work with?
How are the reviews about their business?
What is important to you coverage wise? Candid? Photojournalism? Formals?
(This is just a start: I highly encourage brainstorming/adding your own)
What you can do:
-Do some research (search the web! See what you like)
-Contact them (the sooner the better, dates go quickly!) to see if they’re available for the event
-Schedule a phone call or meeting with that photographer
-Ask them questions (write them down if it helps!) and let them know what you’re looking to get out of your experience
In conclusion:
Wedding photographers are like wedding dresses,
similar but so very different.
While we serve the same purpose/function,
the styles vary.
Find the one that best suits you.
If that happens to be me,
I can assure you; the services and photos I provide will not disappoint.
Abby + Steve
The Bride & Groom dancing to Hall & Oates "You Make My Dreams Come True" for their intro
I love the city of Grand Rapids (where I reside and where this wedding took place).
Prior to the event, Abby, Steve and I took a walk downtown to scout for locations.
We ended up with a well thought out plan of stops and covered some impressive ground the day of.
Abby and Steve are a class act. They show excellence in how they treat others and go about things. Something I thought was really great was they decided to not pick a best man or maid of honor.
To me that spoke volumes with how much they value their friendships equally.
This couple is also extremely down to Earth and well mannered.
Moments before they walked into the reception for introductions, their wedding cake got knocked to the ground. When Abby was told, she said with a smile, "That's ok. Did you get a photo of it before it fell?"
I had and she was completely unphased by the event.
Luckily, it was a display cake and the catering staff had more cake in the kitchen for serving.
My wish is that all bride and grooms enjoy their wedding day as much as these two did.
A special thanks to the second shooter for this event,
Aaron of www.mcgranephoto.com / www.alliedproductionsgr.com
Andy + Brittney
Loved the color palette for their wedding - it complimented the bride, groom & party beautifully
Decorator/Florist for the event: Classic Designs by Doreen Thomas
Bride & Daughter
[ I was in the barn loft to take this photo ]
Sometimes I give little direction - just to see what happens naturally - this is what happened.
These two are a dynamic duo together!
[ For this photo, I had a prism held up to my camera - so if you look closely in the left corner, that's the party bus in the reflection. A couple of their friends were outside of the bus and got them to laugh ]
Where do I start with this wedding?
The weather that September day was ideal.
Andy and Brittney were more than ideal to work with.
They were so appreciative; whether it was their family/friends or towards the vendors, they showed great care and thanks to all who helped on their big day
The ceremony took place at the Bride's parents' property overlooking a field and the reception was at the Aplex in Alpena, Michigan.
The story of the swing:
Brittney saw this swing in a creative shoot I had done. She told me she loved that swing and asked if there was a way she could have it in some photos.
I coordinated with Doreen Thomas. We came up with a plan.
My brother and Father put the swing in the tree on our family's private property.
Doreen found time out of her busy day to put garland on the swing before we arrived at the locations for photos.
Andy and Brittney along with their wedding party truly know how to live in the moment. It was clear as can be that day when I worked with them. From a photographer's perspective, that is something that truly adds to and often makes the photos.
A special thanks to the second shooter for this event,
Amy of www.amybrownridge.com
Amy + Nick
First Look
I was in awe when I arrived and saw this vintage car behind the barn
The Bride with their dog - Sadie
The Bride and Father of the Bride walking to the car they rode in together to the aisle
Nick and Amy's ceremony and reception was held at the Ivy Barn in Marshall, MI in October 2017.
I met Amy and Nick during my studies at Ferris State University - go bulldogs!
I am so thankful that they kept in touch over the years and gave me the honor of photographing their engagement session in Chicago and then their wedding in Michigan.
The Ivy Barn made such a beautiful setting for their day.
At the venue there were two classic cars present which were a lot of fun to have the couple by or as seen above - sitting in the backseat for a laugh and a moment together.
Amy and Nick along with their family and friends were so easy going and light hearted.
They were not only enjoyable to be around but also had a radidant nature that was transferable. I found it extremely difficult to NOT be smiling behind the camera while capturing this event.
Holly + Ryan
The bride making her entrance with her Father escorting
At the altar, the Groom with his parents, as they see the Bride & her Father walk down the aisle
I absolutely love the array of emotions captured in this image
Mr. & Mrs.
Daughter & Dad
Wedding Party
with a wall completely covered in vines as their backdrop - I'm a huge fan of vines for photos.
This wedding took place in Alpena, MI, the groom's hometown, which also happens to be where I'm from.
Alpena is on the beautiful shore of Lake Huron.
Holly and Ryan traveled all the way from California for their celebration.
I can honestly say that the bride and groom along with their family, friends and wedding guests were so incredibly kind. That's one thing I really enjoyed about working with them, they were just so nice and kind to one another and others.
Something that stood out to me about Holly and Ryan on their wedding day and their final collection of wedding photos is how real and auhentic their love for one another is.
I hope that these photos share a glimpse of the love they so proudly and confidently share.
Kim + Mike
This couple knocked their Grand Rapids, MI engagement session out of the ballpark. They displayed so much class, elegance, and style. Additionally they were naturals in front of the camera. I had a blast taking those photos. I had complete confidence that their Castle Farms wedding would be a dream to capture. It did not disappoint.
A behind the screens shot of Amy of Amy Brownridge Photography taking advantage of window light for a solid groom portait.
Absolutely loved how these gold sequin dresses complimented the bride and bridesmaids.
Those cupcakes..that cupcake display... a 10 out of 10.
Often when I take the bride and groom for their portraits/photos, typically it's just the three of us. For this wedding, the Matron of Honor came along and helped with whatever was needed. She held the veil for the photo below - Kim asked if I'd take one photo including the Matron of Honor performing this duty :). I absoulutely adored the appreciation and love the couple showed for their family and friends.
Mike & Kim, their wedding party, guests, and family were full of such positive energy! Above, two members of their wedding party got them to laugh in between shots - which lead to this candid photo. The venue, the wedding, the people - it was a wedding fit for a King & Queen.
A special thanks to the second shooter for this event,
Amy of www.amybrownridge.com
Ben + Tiffany
Ben and Tiffany - also a referral! Someone I knew from Ferris State University passed my name along. The couple had planned their summer Michigan wedding all the while living in another state, which was pretty impressive.
I loved the atmosphere and feel of their lakeshore wedding. The bouquets had ferns in the mix and the bride's look was complete with a braid, beach waves and flower accents.
Ben with his Father, showing off their sweet Star Wars socks!
The property was nestled in the woods at Michillinda Lodge inWhitehall, MI. Their ceremony took place on a balcony overlooking the water. With the afternoon so bright and the skies so blue, the water looked like a sheet of glass and seemed to go on forever with the horizion line far in the distance.
Tiffany and I were completely on the same page here - I asked if she minded sitting down for a photo and she didn't hesitate at all!
Ben and Tiffany were incredible to work with - they truly live in the moment and have so much fun doing so. There is this undeniable electricity and chemistry between the two of them that truly shines.
Ada + Dave
Where do I even begin, to explain how wonderful Ada and Dave were to work with?
I met Ada and Dave via through a referral - I photographed Ada's sister's wedding. While they were in town visiting, we met up in downtown Grand Rapids to go over details and scout possible photography stops for their wedding. They were so easy going and open to ideas as I bounced some suggestions based on what they told me they liked. We decided their sites would be a mix of architecture, art and nature/urban.
[ This was their First Look - I loved capturing/witnessing their exchange from afar ]
[ This custom topper takes the cake - no pun, ok, yes, pun intended. I thought the dinosaurs were a lot of fun and the perfect piece of flair ]
First Dance - photo captured by Aaron McGrane, for the assist
Ada loves sticker art and looking for stickers while out and about in places such as New York City! The couple had these custom drawings/stickers made and encouraged their guests to take one and place it somewhere
My other blog post featured a cat. Well, here is another cat! Ada gave Dave this one of a kind artwork of their cat as a wedding gift.
Ada and Dave's ceremony/reception took place at the John Ball Park Zoo's Bissell Treehouse. In the simplest term and with all due respect, they were cool. By cool, I mean awesome. I throughly enjoyed how comfortable they were with being themselves, showcasing their compassion for each other, their loved ones and the things that bring them joy in life - such as art, animals, music, nature, and time spent with family/friends.
A special thanks to the second shooter for this event,
Aaron of www.mcgranephoto.com / www.alliedproductionsgr.com