To take pictures before or not…that is the question? So many brides struggle with breaking tradition but also say pictures are their number one priority.
We as wedding planners at Signature Occasions here the struggle with every bride, so we are going to take some time and help you decide if should take pics before or after the wedding.
The main reason is that people are afraid they will miss the “awe” moment. A lot of people mix of that moment seeing the groom and thinking he is seeing her for the first time when in reality that look is more “here comes my bride because we are about to get married”. It is the moment where the bride is walking down the aisle, all the guests are standing up and he is realizing “wow, this is it.” It doesn’t have to do with him seeing her in the dress or how else could you explain us having grooms cry during ceremonies but have already seen their brides.
Now, don’t get me wrong, we don’t care either way- we are just planners here at Signature Occasions. Most photographers would say “please please take pictures before!” We have never had a bride complain about seeing her groom before, but we sure have had several comments from brides who didn’t and regretted the amount of photos she ended up getting. I’m sure if we get emails, then they get plenty more.
We also know that you will feel so rushed that day to get the pictures done. Just picture it- all of your family and friends are now in the other room/venue starting on the buffet and you are taking pictures. We have so many grooms who say “we’re done. We’ll get the rest later.” There is never really a later, but you are just so ready to start the party with everyone and don’t want to wait anymore.
So when do we suggest taking your pictures after? When the tradition of not seeing your groom is priority over your photos. We have had brides who knew for sure that not seeing him was more important the photos and that is how you know that you are an “after” bride.
So now you’ve read the above and have decided whether you are a “before” or “after” bride, well here are some tips to help for actually taking pictures on that day.
The biggest mistake we hear “we are going to take all the pictures before except the ones with us together.” Well take a minute and think about that- aren’t you there to marry that man. In the end, those are the only pictures that people really end up ordering…the ones where both the bride and groom are together. Yes you may order the whole wedding party, family, and even your own personal family but all with you together. So why get ready 3 hours before your ceremony to take the pictures of the individual bridesmaids when you are just going to re-take after the wedding as a couple anyways. Sidenote-only time we say take time before, even if you aren’t seeing each other is if you have over 12 bridesmaids 😉
If you do decide to take the pictures before, what are some tips? We have plenty!! Make it a true photo shoot first and foremost. That means don’t just have the church as the backdrop. Pick a park, garden, favorite spot, or great outdoor location and move around to get different looks. It all starts with making photography a priority and the great photographer you hired will direct you to the great shots, but use this as your own wedding day photo session and enjoy every minute of it.
These pictures are from a photo shoot and show examples of our next tip – props! Get some vintage furniture, even something small like a chair can make a big difference. We adore vintage pieces for a wedding, but also for your first look too. Hang a chandelier over a sofa in a field and you will have a wonderful pre-wedding photo shoot. Have the wedding party too and have a full day of pictures to remember your wedding!
Say cheese!
Debbie Simmons is owner of Signature Occasions, wedding and event coordinators. Over the past two decades, Deborah has orchestrated numerous weddings and rehearsal dinners, coordinated receptions and social functions for national and local elected officials, created corporate events for area businesses and much more.
Deborah has earned the designation of Master Bridal Consultant™ (1 of 70 in the World and the only one in the state) the highest and most prestigious award from the Association of Bridal Consultants, after having completed all the requirements with distinguished honors. As a result of her dedication to the Association and the wedding industry, she was appointed, and currently serves as, the first ABC ~ Mississippi State Coordinator.