The 411 on Wedding Photos

Jess gets the scoop on having a "picture perfect" day.

By Jessica Solloway

I figured we all could use a break from my blabber about to-do lists and shoe shopping dilemmas. So, this week I did a little digging (investigative blogging, if you will) to uncover the secrets to getting amazing wedding pictures. If you're planning a wedding, you know that finding a photographer is no easy task. They're responsible for capturing the most important and memorable moments of your big day ... everything from the first instant you and your fiance see each other ... to grandma doing the Running Man after too many cocktails.

So, a few months ago, I set out on my quest to find awesome wedding photographers that wouldn't break the bank. My friend Steph told me about a husband and wife team she was using to shoot her wedding in July, Jackie and Rob Drago. After perusing their website, I learned why they're appropriately named RAD Wedding Photographers and booked them on the spot. In between weekends making brides and grooms "say cheese", they answered a few of my most pressing questions. Read on for their tips to score rad pics on your wedding day...

1) How do couples find the photographer that best suits their style?
You need to find a photographer that not only takes the style of photos you want, but also fits with your personal style. You really need to "click" personally with your photographer. If you're not really digging 'em when you have your first meeting, then they're not the photographer for you.

The two main styles most photographers use to describe their work are traditional or photojournalistic. If you're not sure what style you want, just look around and you'll know it when you see it. Most photojournalistic photographers can throw in the traditional when needed, say for family photos, but a traditional photographer usually can't make the switch to a photojournalistic style.

2) You guys have seen it all! What advice do you have for brides and grooms on their wedding day?
Relax!! This is one of the best days of your life, so just sit back, enjoy it and don't worry about anything but having the most amazing day. Don't stress about little things, it's completely unnecessary. The wedding day is about you and your fiancé becoming husband and wife. Who cares if the flowers aren't exactly how you ordered them! If you are one of those people that stress about every little thing, then I would highly recommend hiring a wedding coordinator. That way they can take care of any problem that arises and you can just enjoy your day.

3) What is the key to getting great wedding day pictures?
Well, there are actually three...
1) It's all about the time!! It is an absolute must to schedule plenty of time for photos.  More time = more photos.

2) Photo locations: You are far better off choosing one or two locations for photos rather than trying to go to multiple locations. Less locations and less time being wasted driving around equals more time for pictures!!!!

3) Being Open: You need to be open to let your photographer be creative and trust that what they're asking you to do will result in great photos.

4) What are some unique ways to get group shots and portraits?
The best way to get group shots and portraits is to keep things informal and relaxed. It's your wedding day, so try to keep things laid back, easy going and most of all, try to have fun with it. Having things like balloons or umbrellas to add to the photos can result in fun and creative photos.

5) Should clients give you a "shot list"?
That depends. A 'shot list' is great for the family photos. You know, the ones that usually take place at the church after the ceremony with the grandparents, aunts and uncles, cousins and everyone else your parents want you to take pictures with. You shouldn't have to give your photographer a shot list for the bride and groom and bridal party photos. If you hired the right photographer, you should trust them and give them the opportunity to be creative and get the right shots. You will really limit your photographers creativity if all you want him to do is copy other peoples photos. You want your photos to be your photos, not somebody else's.

6) Are there any new trends in photography making their way into the wedding circuit?
First looks, simple decor and fashion art photos. First looks are when the bride and groom see each other before the ceremony to make more time for photographs and to settle the pre-wedding nerves. Since photography can be a large investment, couples are making the best out of their time to achieve rad photos.

Simple decor can really make a reception unique and trendy.  Less = more.  A few clean, modern table centerpieces can bring out the couples personality.

Fashion art photos. Posing can be rad when done right. Taking a fashion approach to the photography can eliminate cheesy prom style pictures that your mom had 25 years ago.

7) Can you describe some of your favorite wedding shots?
I love when clients are open to suggestions. This wedding party wanted to incorporate balloons but didn't know how to use them in the pics.