When I meet with my wedding clients, I always tell them I will come at least an hour early to their wedding day and not charge them for it. Why would I do this? Isn’t my time worth anything? Yes, it is, and I have found over the years of shooting there’s a good reason to come early.
When I get to the wedding venue early, I typically check out the lighting for the day. Is it sunny? Cloudy? Rainy? Is there an overhang, is there a place that is cool? Is there a mud? Is there a place for the bride to stand without squinting? Is there a space large enough for the wedding party? All these questions need to be answered and sometimes they can’t be until the day of the wedding.
I also come early to set up any gear and take a look at the ceremony spot before all the guests arrive. This allows me to see the front and back of the space I’m in.
Coming early also helps me to connect with other vendors so that I can put a name to a face, as well as shoot details of the dress, shoes, stationary and other details without feeling rushed. I can also meet members of the wedding party and the parents.
Because I want the photography timeline that the couple and I have worked out to stay in tact, coming early allows me to let other vendors know who are on site, (for example the make up artist for hair stylist) know that the next portion of the day is about to start.
Just a few tips as to why to come early for the day!
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