Q. When should formal pictures be taken?

This is one of the most frequently asked questions by our brides, so I though I should share with you’ll your options.

A. It is up to you. Here are the options:

• Before the Ceremony – Our favorite! Of course, if you want to uphold the tradition of not seeing each other before the ceremony, this is out. But more and more couples choose to spend time alone prior to the ceremony, and it’s a great opportunity to get family and wedding-party portraits done when everyone’s excited and fresh. It does require to plan your time well so you can make the most of that time. We also do what we call First Glance during that time.
• After the Ceremony –  This is the traditional way. The newlyweds and wedding party take pictures while guest wait outside or travel to the reception and start a cocktail hour. To make the most of this time, someone should be designated to organize the family portraits, otherwise, they will rob you of your portrait time.
• During the reception – Some couples steal away to take shots with their wedding-party & families. Consider whether you want to take this time away from your guests. And beware – you won’t look as fresh.
• Afterward – You might have to redo your make up! it definitely depends on how late the party will go, too. The biggest advantage: absolutely no distractions or nerves.

One key factor to get great pictures is time. The most time the photographer is afforded the better and greater variety of images you will get. Also, the earliest in the day the images are taken the freshest the make up, hair and dress will be.

If you choose to do the pictures after the ceremony, we suggest that you consider to do the families and wedding-party during the reception, specially if you have large families.

Also, talk to us about the First Glance. It is fun, intimate time between bride and groom that produce very unique images. Of course, we will discuss all these details with you before the wedding so we can plan a great plan in order to get awesome images for you.