In the past few weeks, I’ve had more than the average amount of emails asking a few questions regarding photographing reception details. Before I begin this post, I want to make sure I clarify that in no way am I portending to be I’m someone I’m not. I’m definitely not the best photographer, nor do I think I capture details in a way no one else I can, or in a manner better than a peer. However, the FAQ posts deal specifically with how I photograph receptions in the best way I know how. If there are readers who think they can do it better, leave a comment and share the love! 😉
When I first started photographing reception details, I had no idea where to start. I looked at the beautiful tables and details and tried to figure out the best way to showcase everything. I struggled in the beginning, but once I found my niche and style, things got easier. I’m definitely inspired by magazine presentations—be it fashion, wedding, or architecture—so I began photographing details in way I’d be able to cohesively present them. I did this for a few reasons: 1. I wanted my brides to see how a typical layout of details may look in their wedding album; 2. I wanted to make sure vendors would be able to snag images from my blog and put on their blogs to showcase their work shortly after the wedding; and 3. I wanted to use them as inspiration boards for my future brides to see how important details are to their special day and how they make a beautiful wedding into an extraordinary wedding!
1. See It, Love It, Want It
Nothing is more satisfying than seeing an idea, a vision come to life. Most brides spent 9-15 months planning a wedding, so it’s my job to document their hard work and present it in the most flattering of ways. They’ve invested a large portion of their budget to flowers, centerpieces, and meal cards, so if I can tie everything together for them, they can envision how awesome it would be to include in their wedding album.
Here’s a sample of reception details I put together from Jane and Kevin’s wedding…
And here’s what transpired in her wedding album on a details layout…
2. Drag and Brag
I create creative boards from a wedding not only for the bride, but for the wedding vendors. As most wedding professionals have blogs, it’s fabulous for them to drag their handiwork from my blog, and onto theirs. They appreciate seeing their art documented and it’s a small way of saying thanks for a job well done.
Here are creative boards I put together for the wedding coordinator, florist, and furniture rental company from Kasey and Nick’s wedding in Seattle last month…
3. Oooh, Just Like Hers, But More Like Me
I’m really stoked to say that a lot of my brides read my blog, both past and future. I love them for that!! What’s especially awesome about their blog dedication is that they’ve come to know how I LOVE wedding details. They allocate time in their wedding schedule for me to capture the details and make sure their coordinator tips me off to the importance of each element. This helps future brides—whether they’re J* clients or not—get ideas and hone into their personal wedding style.
Here’s a creative board from Christine and Noland’s wedding…
Another question I get asked frequently is if I use templates to put together each creative board and the answer is No. I design each one in Photoshop and takes me just a few minutes. The more you do, the easier they become! 🙂
Again, if there are readers who'd like to offer their input, the comment box is here for ya!
Happy Monday!
