Anyone can take a photo with their cell phone, even Great Grandma Betty and crazy Aunt Karen, but that’s exactly why investing in a trusted, professional photographer is crucial. Photos are the one thing that captures all your big day encompasses. We got an inside exclusive with Jenny from JN Byrnes Photography. From tips and tricks, to dos and don’ts – we covered it all for you.

Tips for Success

For Engagement:

Choose a location that reflects you as a couple. Be sure to ask yourself what fits you. For example, are you country or city people? An open field, an old building or an alleyway in town can be just perfect. Don’t overthink it.
Take a deep breath and be your beautiful true self in front of the camera. Your photographer is here to guide you, help you relax in front of the camera, get to know both of you and have some fun.
Outfits can be tricky. Before getting too stressed, ask if your photographer allows an outfit change. If they do, one could be casual (a typical outfit you would wear daily) and one could be more dressed up or formal outfit. Either way, be sure you choose something comfortable & you are confident wearing. One piece of advice when choosing the outfit – keep it clean. Solid colors with limited prints make for better photos – remember, less is more.

For you Wedding Day:

With JN Byrnes Photography, Jenny meets with wedding clients 1-2 weeks before the wedding. During that time, they discuss all details from family, wedding party and day of timeline. Everything will be pre-determined, such as who is involved in the photos, where to be and what will be happening at what time, so your wedding day can run as smoothly as possible.

Dos and Don’ts

Do what is best for you & your fiancé. Discuss what you BOTH want your wedding day to be! It can be hard to let go traditional wedding protocol – for example “the first look”

“Personally, from a photographers stand point I highly suggest it. In my opinion, it is a very special moment. Raw emotions flow, couples get a few minutes to admire each other and take it all in. I truly think it makes the day go smoother, nerves are broken, pictures can start earlier, which ultimately frees up time later in the day for you to enjoy yourself. However, remember this day is about you. If that’s not what you want, that is okay because it’s your day,” said Jenny.

Don’t choose a location that is difficult to reach. When it comes to location, choose what will be convenient – close to the ceremony and or reception. Location that are out of everyone’s way will cause problems with staying on time and may create a rush for your photographer.

Don’t hire a photographer you haven’t met before.

“As a photographer I like to know my clients, their personalities, likes and interest. I need to know enough to build a connection with them. You need to know if you can trust your photographer to get the job done, keep the timeline flowing and definitely needs to have the personality that you click with. After all you spend pretty much the whole day with them,” said Jenny.

What to Ask Your Photographer

Talk about your wedding theme. This will give your photographer ideas on what needs to be captured on wedding day.
Go through the “shot list.” Tell your photographer about grandparents, aunts, uncles or family member who will be involved with photos. The more your photographer knows, the better prepared and less stress that will arise.
Discuss locations. If you have a special spot in mind for pictures, please let your photographers know ahead of time. Not does it help with the timeline, but it will allow your photographer time to envision and explore creative shots for smoother picture taking.
Ask your photographer, about their post-production steps. For example, know their turn around time and printing rights.

Top 5:

Choose a photographer whose photography style you love, but also you can be comfortable around. Your photographer’s goal is to make you feel relaxed and confident. If you’re comfortable, it will be easier to show your true beautiful personalities and allow them to be captured.
Wedding Photographers must have a contract. There is worse than finding out a week before your wedding that your photographer is double booked and nothing can be done. Protect yourself!
Inform your family & wedding party of the picture schedule. This is extremely helpful for everyone to know what they need, at what time and which location.
When it comes to bride and groom pictures, ask the wedding party to disperse from the area. This helps bride and groom focus on each other and draw a connection in photos.
Take it all in! Set aside a few moments with your new spouse and breathe. The day about the two of you. Remember how blessed you are and that all these people came here to support you as a couple.

A special piece of advice…

Do you know that your wedding day is about you and your partner? WHAAAT? Yes, the day truly goes by in a blink of an eye. You put in so much time and energy and boom your day is done. Between getting ready, nervousness, dinner speeches & pictures it is a lot to take in.

It is OKAY to request time along with your significant other.

It is OKAY to tell crazy Aunt Karen NO to all her wild suggestions. Don't do all the extra things just to please your friends and family.

This day is about becoming Mr.& Mrs. and if it doesn't serve you… then say NO!!