Priscilla & Jonathan at Hunton Park, London.

10 years of shooting weddings has taught me a thing or two about working with couples. And I’m sorry to say, it’s not just me who does all the work - it’s a collaboration.

I’ve broken the work process down into 5 steps that will ensure a smooth wedding day shoot. This way, you can get the full benefits of their talents. Essential reading if you want to own a gorgeous set of photos to cherish forever.

Step 1. Before the big day.

Imagine this...

You are revisiting your wedding album, flipping through the pages. What do you see?

Romantic pastel hues...or dramatic black & white photos?

Close ups of happy guests in an intimate setting…or epic drone shots of the two of you in a beautiful landscape?

First step. Envision what you want, and find a photographer that fits.

Research. Choose a photographer whose work you love. Check that they are consistent in work, process and style. You want to be certain that you can trust the photographer to capture every detail in the style you have in mind.

Some photographers embody a moodier style, full of warm dark hues and dramatic shadow. Perfect if you’re looking for a bold cinematic look. If that’s what you’re looking for, then you may want to skip me! My photos are light, dreamy, and full of soft colours and romantic vibes.

Be sure to look at the content of what different photographers shoot. Do they include snaps of happy guests? Have they included details like the flowers and the cake?

For my galleries, I highlight the details that make your wedding unique. I make sure to portray the atmosphere of romance and joy in my couples, and capture the delight of your guests. I absolutely love capturing these genuine emotions.

These styles are just an example of what’s out there. So choosing the right person is essential.

So you’ve found your dream photographer? Tick. So you can put that aside ‘til the big day…

Hold up! My next rule will make a huge difference...

Be sure to visit the venue with your photographer before the big day.

I insist on a pre-wedding day site visit, and most photographers do too.

Preparation is key. Going into a wedding blind isn’t something I want to be doing. I want to know what I’m dealing with when it comes to setting so there are NO surprises.

This is also a valuable time and space to share ideas and envision the big day together. Wedding shoots are a collaboration, we love to take your vision and mesh it with our expertise.

It’s important to have couple and group shots taken in a place you love. Your photographer can narrow down key locations as well as suggesting other spots. You MUST trust your photographer. They have done this many times before and they know what works. The photographer can see things that you can’t, from problems with the light to backdrop issues. Their vision and creativity is what you pay for.

Planning is not just for our benefit. Creating a timeline with your photographer means that YOU are also aware of the process on the day. You can concentrate all your efforts on enjoying yourself. Again, it's a collaboration. We work together to make sure your day is seamless and this will show in your photos.

💡 Tip. An Engagement shoot is a great way to get to know your photographer and learn how to relax in front of the camera. Trust me, even the most confident person gets nervous when confronted with a lens! I see a huge difference in a couple after this ‘practice session’. I can’t recommend it enough.

Dani & Catryn’s engagement shoot on Ynys Llanddwyn.

Now that’s sorted, on to the big day…

Step 2. Preparation is key

The ideal wedding gallery begins with dreamy shots detailing the ceremony preparation.

I have 3 easy rules to follow that will ensure a smooth morning. You’ll be so pleased to have these little reminders in your gallery as it can be a whirlwind of excitement and emotions before the ceremony.

On the day before the wedding, place all the details you want photographed in one place. This could be the dress, jewellery, shoes, invitations, perfume… anything special that deserves it’s time to shine! When I arrive, I can stealthily take these shots without disturbing you as you get ready. I ADORE the look of flatlays for this.
Get ready in a neutral, naturally lit, un-cluttered space. It makes my job much easier when I don’t have to work to block out packaging, laundry and random hangers from your photos!
Plan to be ready 30-45 mins before you’re due to leave for the ceremony. Plenty of time for close-ups and a chance to decompress before everything kicks off. You want to be calm and collected before walking down the aisle.

I love shooting flat lays of all the wedding details.

💡 Tip. Something I love to do with my couples is a first look. A lovely moment captured forever, and a chance to have photos of the both of you before the ceremony.

Sara & Anders’ beautiful first look captured before their ceremony.

Step 3. The ceremony

Now for something controversial that I firmly believe in, and encourage all my couples to do.

...an UNPLUGGED CEREMONY!

No phones, no cameras, or even worse, iPads.

Devices obscure views and ruin the cleanliness of a photo. I’ll be free to capture the joy and emotions on your guest’s faces as you walk down the aisle. Without shots of loved ones, phones aloft, squinting into screens.

The photographer’s photos are going to trump any blurry phone pic that Aunt Sally snaps any day! Your guests will be more present and enjoy themselves far more because of it, trust me.

💡 Tip. I always suggest assigning a few shepherds to herd the crowd and create space for the confetti shot. This makes things way more efficient, and we can all get to the drinks and canapé’s sooner!

If you want one or two romantic photos at a special spot, now is the time. Allocate plenty of time between the ceremony and the drinks reception for this.

Sioned & Dylan photographed at the famous tree at Llyn Padarn, Llanberis

Step 4. After dinner…

Some photographers might think their work is all but done by now, but there’s an opportunity here you don’t want to miss. Everyone has relaxed into the day, any nerves are long dispelled. Your guests are comfortable and ready for some fun.

Two rules I stick by…

Steal away some time for after dinner portraits. The light is softer and we have more freedom to play around with the location. Of course, we don’t want to take you away from the celebrations, but spare a quick 20-30 minutes to get some extra shots. It’s wonderful l to get the bridal party involved here too.

💡 Keep flowers hydrated with a spray bottle and be sure to bring any makeup for touch ups.
Tell your guests not to be afraid to approach the photographer for some shots. I like to do rounds after the meal and take ‘requests’.

Katie & Martin taking some time to embrace newly married life after their wedding breakfast.

Step 5. Party time!

I really recommend keeping your photographer around even for just a short while into the evening.

For the first dance – the more movement the better! Consider minimal coloured lighting to avoid colour blotches on your skin and clothes. Then go all out with the lights when the guests join in.

💡 Tip. If you’re considering sparklers, better to shoot at dusk so we can get a nice glow in the images.

Bobby & Laura’s stunning first dance at Tyn Dwr Hall, Llangollen.

And my final and most important tip – don’t forget to feed the photographer! But seriously, it’s truly appreciated when you go that extra mile to make us feel comfortable.

There you have it! I hope that this has given you more insight into the process of working with your photographer.

Heledd x

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