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Meeting on photography for a wedding?

Hi, I'm a starting photographer and I have my first wedding booked in May. I have a meeting with the bride and groom Friday. I have a list of questions to ask such as the first dance, time of the reception, etc. I also have a contract, portfolio and photography checklist to bring with me. Is there anything else that I need so I don't look like an unorganized idiot?

Sounds like you are pretty organized. To keep things flowing, I would suggest you start by asking the bride to tell you about her plans for how the day will unfold, from start to finish.

This narrative will give you a timeline for the days events, and you can fill in any missing information that you are unclear on as she tells you about her plans.

Ask for a copy of the invitation, and plan to include a photo of it - maybe with the wedding rings, or with the cake in the background. This will also give you the address and start times for the ceremony and reception, just to reconfirm what the bride is telling you.

Also ask for a guest list, and go through it with the bride, so you know the "who is who" of the wedding party and immediate family.

Request a copy of the program for the ceremony, and you'll be ready to capture all the "moments" as they happen. Mention to the bride that you may want to recreate some of the highlights - exchange of rings, kiss, etc. afterwards, just in case you missed the "live action". That way you'll still have backup for those "must have" photos.

Also find out the names of the celebrant, DJ, and the caterer or event manager at the reception site. Give them a call a few days before the event to introduce yourself and get their insights. The DJ will have his own timeline for things like introducing the newlyweds, first dance, toasts, garter and bouquet toss, cake cutting, etc. Work with him and you won't be taking your dinner break at a critical moment!

Instead of going down a checklist of random items, use a more conversational approach, and you'll get more information, and a better understanding of how they envision the day. Envision is an important word - because it's your job to turn their vision into images that reflect what they way in their minds.

Best wishes to you, and your bride and broom.

Regards,
George
Certified Professional Photographer

http://www.NYPortraits.com

Wedding photographer Wedding Planning Checklist

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