TimeLines

There are no right or wrongs here!

Whether you want to do your photo's before or after the ceremony we can make it work! It is, however, worth noting that in NZ the light is often quite harsh between 12pm-5pm during the summer months and the quality of your images can be hugely influenced by the quality of the light.

I often get asked about how I feel about doing the bulk of images pre-ceremony. It's totally fine, however, please be aware that it may affect your hair, makeup and dress cleanliness for the ceremony. I love walking/transitional shots with the dress down so also if there is a little wind or rain it may be hard to keep you looking super pristine for the ceremony. My preference is always after *if we can* also many couples are usually a little more relaxed after the ceremony as the nerves are over which makes for more relaxed images.

If you are planning/have to do a bulk of the bridal party/couples photos during the middle of the afternoon and it is hot, it's worth making sure there is plenty of shaded areas for you all to relax under and stay cool. Also, solid shade photographs much nicer on the skin than open areas in full sun ☀️ Also remember to make sure there is plenty of shade for your guests too - I have shot 36 degree days and it can be really uncomfortable for everyone including you and the guests if there is no shade/shelter.

I love my couples to have lots of guest time, especially between the ceremony & reception. If the light is pretty harsh on the day I may do a short session with the bridal party (up to 30mins) & then a few portraits of the two of you (up to 20mins), and then let you go back to the guests - this means I can pull you out for a little longer later on when the light is at its best and no one should miss you as you would have already had a chance to say hello and be present!

Sometimes when the guests are being seated it's really nice to do a quick couple of portraits with the two of you outside while everyone is busy finding their seats and grabbing a drink - it won't cut into your guest time and by then the light is typically starting to get softer. (I will coordinate this on the day if I feel like we need to so don't worry about scheduling anything - easy!)

​Personally, I don't need/want a super detailed timeline down to 15minute slots - It will depend on the type of weather on your day (full sun/high cloud/rain etc) as to how long/where we shoot on the day. I find its best if you give me a start time, ceremony time, and time you need to be back for dinner. This way it allows the flexibility to make the call on the day to what is going to work best for you! You don't have to schedule it, but be aware when the light gets low and glows- I get excited and will sneak you away for some magical memories (don't worry, it won't take long and will be SO worth it.

Ceremony

Put the sun behind you, or behind your guests

For an outdoor ceremony, especially in NZ's harsh sun, its best to place the sun behind your officiant, for even backlighting - or directly behind your guests. Otherwise, you might be super squinty in your ceremony shots, or harshly lit. Make sure you are in the same lighting conditions as your guests. Don't hide in the shade and seat them in the sun - It's really hard to photograph and doesn't look awesome! Even is best!

Consider an unplugged ceremony

An “unplugged” ceremony is when you ask your guests to not take any photos during the ceremony. Unplugging allows your guests to enjoy and be present during the ceremony without fussing over cell phones and flashes. It also keeps the aisle open for me so I can take better photos with no one in the way.

Let your guests know 

Get your celebrant to guests know at the start of the ceremony with the other housekeeping (ask them they will know what's best). Or have a sign at the entrance to the ceremony space!

   "Almost unplugged'

I honestly don't mind guest taking photos, as long as they don't stand up, or block the aisle. If I miss the first kiss because Aunty Susan jumps in front of me last minute you will probably be a bit sad! It's up to you how unplugged you want to ask your guests to be!

Just Married Confetti

I am a massive fan of down the aisle/just married/yay confetti!! Just make sure you check with your venue what you are allowed! You can use lavender, rose petals, eco confetti, rice etc. Make some little cones, fill'em up and put them on the seats closest to the aisle. Or perhaps a confetti canon?! Just make sure your celebrant gives everyone the low-down on what to do!

I feel so strongly about the importance of these amazing photos

Please take the time to plan them properly as one day they might be your most cherished memories of the ones you love.

Here is some help to make it run as smoothly as possible (so it doesn't take all day!)

Make a list!

Write out individuals names so the important people don't get missed! 

Give a copy to your MC or family members on each side and make sure there is a mic or someone with a good yelling voice

I often don't know anyone so it's best to have someone on the 'inside' calling the list which leaves me to focus on making sure everyone looks good in the lineup

As a guide, this generally works well (feel free to make changes)

Group Photo (everyone! PS - this is totally optional)

Parents (each side) 

Parents (with their child)

Parents (together)

Parents & Siblings (each side)

Grandparents (each side)

Grandparents (with their grandchild)

Extended Family (each side)

Friends (each side)

It sounds a lot, but in time these will be some of your most priceless images! 

If you take the time to plan them properly it only takes me about 1-2 mins per photo so it's time well spent