Weddings...

You simply can’t beat them for their complexity, raw emotion, timing, and grace. So many hours go into planning them, and for most couples, they’re over way too quickly. Every bride dreams of her perfect wedding day, and the anticipation can be as magical as the day itself. But what is that magical ingredient that makes it all come together, and what advice would I, as a photographer, give a bride on how to approach her wedding day?

1. Be the first person to enjoy it the most.

Live in every moment. Eat well, laugh, dance the night away, and be happy. There is no use in inviting your carefully chosen guests to a party that you ultimately fail to enjoy yourself. Remember: your guests are invited to a beautiful celebration, and what greater privilege can there be than to be invited to someone’s wedding? Their biggest burden on that day is to enjoy everything. It is not your responsibility to make them do so.

2. Your service providers are key to the enjoyment of your day.

The more professional they are, the more you can trust them. It is a great pleasure to work with professionals who are on time and know what they are doing. The more you can lean on them, the happier you will be. Let them know beforehand what you need from them on the wedding day. The less responsibility you have on your wedding day, the more you can be in the moment.

3. Your bridesmaids must prioritize you.

Yes, they’re there for fun, laughter, and a great time, but you shouldn’t have to check up on them. Let them know your schedule and when you need them to get dressed, etc. It is their duty to attend to your needs first. You must be the most beautiful woman on this day. Period.

4. Less really is more.

There is truth in this cliché. Try to convey who you are at your wedding and forget about the cookie-cutter weddings. You have your own unique story to tell, and what a beautiful one it is! Have the courage and conviction to realize your vision.

5. Remember that it’s about the two of you.

It’s not about the people, it’s not about the rings, and it’s not about the dress… Many a bride has found herself entangled with wedding duties, sometimes forgetting the essence of what it’s all about.

6. Weddings are rarely perfect.

Even though you may have worked out the timeline, life is life, and people are people. But that is what makes it all so interesting. Every wedding should have an element of unpredictability. Don’t stress if everything doesn’t work out exactly as you planned.

7. Give yourself to the photographic process.

It will be hugely rewarding when you look at your wedding portraits afterward and see yourself enjoying it. Happy photographs age well!

8. It’s okay to be specific.

A wedding is no small event and deserves to be big on detail. But communicate everything well, then leave it in someone’s capable hands as much as possible.

9. Just be yourself.

Packages and Pricing

Option 1:

– R8 000.00

This option includes photographic coverage from the start of the ceremony until the couple arrives at the reception.
No photographs are taken at the reception. All edited images (high and low resolution Jpegs) will be made available to you.

Option 2:

– R10 000.00

This option covers your wedding from 2 hours before the ceremony starts until the couple arrives at the reception.
No photographs are taken at the reception. All edited images (high and low resolution Jpegs) will be made available to you.

Option 3:

– R15 000.00

This option covers your entire wedding, from start until finished. The photographer will arrive at least 4 hours before the ceremony starts and will stay until 22h00. All edited images (high and low resolution Jpegs) will be made available to you.

Some additional thoughts...

– With so many awesome people on your wedding day, things can become hectic and overwhelming. Simply cherish each moment and resist the temptation to get to everybody. Instead, be at peace and let them find you.

– Yes, an engagement shoot is definitely worth it. It provides a glimpse into your life before tying the knot, which becomes more precious with time. There are practical benefits too; you’ll have good images for your wedding day and get a feel for working with your photographer.

– Feeling nervous about being photographed is normal, but a good photographer will inspire confidence and create a relaxed atmosphere. The shoot will be natural and fun, hardly feeling like a formal photo session.

– Not being a professional model won’t be an issue. Your photographer should guide you through the process without you even realizing it.

– Timing before the ceremony is crucial. Being fully dressed 45 minutes before the ceremony starts allows for pictures of the bride and bridesmaids without rushing.

– Your hair and makeup schedule before the ceremony is very important. Delays can affect everything, so build in extra time for unforeseen circumstances.

– Being yourselves is not a problem at all; it’s preferable. You look best when you’re relaxed and doing what feels natural to you.

– You and your partner don’t have to worry about being photogenic. When you act naturally and feel comfortable, you radiate true beauty.

– Providing your photographer with detail about your wedding beforehand is helpful, not bothersome. The more information, the better.