I know you must have a million things on your mind. But don't stress! You've done an amazing job planning everything up to this point. Now it's time to enjoy the experience.
Tips to ensure you get the best images possible:
1. Before the Wedding in the Riviera Maya:
- Use sunscreen! Nobody wants a farmer's tan on their wedding day.
- Double-check photographer and videographers access to the hotel.
- Dismiss your hotel photographer and videographers if you've hired an external one. If you fell in love with and hired someone to tell your story, even if a photographer is included in your hotel package, dismiss them. You won't want them appearing in the shots of your chosen team, and it often makes it difficult to work smoothly.
- Remember the final payment if needed.
- If you've chosen me to capture your big day, repeat at least 20 times a day prior to the wedding day, "Do NOT look at the camera"! Tell all your family and friends the same quote, at least 5 times a day prior to the wedding!
2. Talk with Your Partner:
Your partner might not know what to expect regarding photography on your wedding day. It's better if they know what to expect and can mentally prepare for it. Trust me!
It's good to be informed, so please let them know:
- The photographer will capture them getting ready. Preferably, do not get completely dressed until the photographer arrives.
- The photographer will capture family and bridal party photos after the ceremony.
- The photographer will need time with the two of you alone for the portrait session.
It's funny, but in my experience, I often find that one partner doesn't fully know how things will work. Usually, one person has done a great job planning everything and assumes their partner knows all the details.
3. Getting Ready:
- Wait for the photographer to arrive before you "get ready." They actually want to see you get dressed!
- Have your wedding dress/suit hung somewhere in the room when they arrive.
- Have all accessories (bouquet, suit, jewelry, shoes, veil, gifts, etc.) in plain view in your room.
- Have champagne and glasses available for the toasts.
4. First Look:
- Don't just stand there!
- Touch each other, even if it's a first touch and you can't see each other.
- Get close and enjoy the moment.
- Don't worry about the photographer. Remember the first time you saw each other; reminisce.
You don't want this:
5. Ceremony:
- Please tell your guests they do not need their cellphones or devices. That's why you hired a photographer! In fact, it's better to unplug the ceremony. It's much more beautiful to see the emotions of your friends and family in your wedding album than a sea of cellphones in action.
- After your grand entrance, you can ask your officiant to invite your guests to take a moment to snap a photo and then kindly request that they put their devices away. This way, everyone can fully live in the moment with you, sharing in the real emotions and beauty of your special day.
- NO chewing gum on the wedding day. There's nothing worse than seeing gum inside your guests' mouths when they laugh. Photographers usually will not edit it out. Photoshop might be magical, but... it still doesn't look good and we all make funny faces when chewing gum.
- If your guest insist on taking photos, please try to ensure they sit in the chairs farthest from the aisle and not in the front row.
- No other photographers or videographers on site, please!
- KISS each other. The kiss should last at least 10 seconds.
- Try to remember to allow the ring to show when you are placing it on each other's fingers.
Remember, these moments are captured to tell your story beautifully.
Keeping these tips in mind will help make your wedding album even more stunning.
Enjoy every second!
6. Portraits:
- Don't worry, the photographer will guide you a little bit. Some create situations for you. The most important part is for them to see how you love each other.
- Building a good relationship with your photographers beforehand is key. Let them know your preferences, what you expect, what you like, what you don't, and what makes you uncomfortable. With this understanding, they can use their experience to handle everything smoothly and create magical moments. Trust me, you'll enjoy the process and have a wonderful time!
- Remember, you just GOT MARRIED!!! You should take the time alone to really enjoy each other. The photographer will be there in the background. Hug, kiss, dance, play fight—do what you do when it's just the two of you!
- Don't look at the camera unless they tell you to.
I love creating situations that bring out your true essence and connection.
The magic happens between the shots, in those moments where you are truly yourselves together.
7. Reception:
- Grand Entrance: We suggest making your entrance with full energy, and if you're going to dance, keep going until you reach your destination. The same goes for your wedding party—whatever you do, don't stop until you get to your place. This moment is full of excitement, and the photographers will make the most of every movement.
- Toasts: People giving the toast should try to stand next to the couple's table. This allows us to capture the emotions of both you and the speaker in the same frame from different perspectives. Try not to take a bite of food during this time, as an amazing reaction to something said can be missed with a mouthful. And very importantly, ask your wedding planner or staff in advance not to walk in front of the camera during the speech. They can refill your champagne after each person finishes speaking.
- Meal: Photographers and Videographers prefer to eat the same meal as your guests, and the meal should be served at the same time as the wedding party. This way, they can eat quickly and not miss any of the action. As soon as the speeches start, they won't have another chance to eat the entire evening.
Let's recognize that photographers and videographers
expend a lot of energy throughout the day
They are human beings who need to eat and stay hydrated.
Many brides ask, "Do they have to eat?" The answer is YES!
- Cake: Be you. Do it how you do, just make sure it ends with a kiss.
- First dance: Enjoy the Moment! Remember to look into each other's eyes occasionally, maybe even share a kiss. If you have planned a choreographed dance, discuss it with your photographers beforehand.
- Bouquet/Garter Belt: Take your time. Play around. Make the best of the situation. Fake the throw a couple of times if you'd like. Have fun.
8. DJ Services and Equipment:
- Please make sure that your DJ or entertainment provider DOES NOT USE LASERS!!! The new technology in much of our equipment is severely affected by lasers. Many photographers will not photograph wedding events where lasers are present. If equipment is damaged as a result of lasers, the client is usually responsible for any and all repair/replacement costs. Photography gear, specifically camera sensors, can be highly susceptible to the risk of being destroyed by lasers. If lasers are present at any part of the wedding day event, photographers can and will refuse to put their equipment at risk.
If equipment is damaged as a result of lasers, the client is usually responsible for any and all repair/replacement costs.
- We suggest using white or amber lights for the first dances. Colored lights add an incredible touch to the photos, but please ask the DJ to keep the intensity at a medium level to get the best results
Personally, I recommend letting your DJ know in advance that the photographer or videographer might make suggestions during the night, and you would love for everyone to work together as one great team.
9. Final Payment:
- Don't forget to have an envelope with the final payment ready in cash USD on the day of your event, if required. This can usually be taken care of when the photographers arrive for the getting ready portion of your day.
