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Selecting a Wedding Photographer – The Best Questions to ask

Engagement ring in pink flowers

Selecting a Wedding Photographer

Every step of the wedding planning process can be a daunting one. From saying yes to the dress to building your bouquet, selecting a wedding photographer is yet another task you’ll want to get perfect. You only get one shot at capturing a gone-too-soon flurry of memories, and you won’t want to regret the outcome. As a wedding photographer, I may be a bit biased but selecting a wedding photographer is possibly the most important selection you make besides your wedding venue.

The Best Questions to ask when Selecting a Wedding Photographer

Shopping for a wedding photographer who suits your budget, aesthetic, and schedule is challenging. After narrowing down your shortlist of contenders, don’t forget to ask yourself the following questions.

Mum with the money

Are wedding photos worth it?

The value of professional wedding photography ultimately depends on personal preference and circumstance. If having high-quality, memorable photos of your wedding day is important to you, then investing in a professional photographer may be worth it. On the other hand, if you don’t place as much importance on photography or have a limited budget, you may not need to prioritize it.

Consider how you plan to use the photos after the wedding. If you envision displaying them prominently in your home or sharing them with friends and family, investing in a professional photographer may be worth the cost. However, if you think the photos may only end up on a USB drive and rarely seen, you may want to reconsider the expense.

Bride and groom on crozier street

It’s also worth considering how important appearances are to you in your social circles. If you want to ensure you look your best in your wedding photos, hiring a professional photographer who can make you feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera may be worth the investment.

Ultimately, whether or not professional wedding photography is worth it depends on your personal priorities and circumstances. Consider your budget, your desired outcome for the photos, and how important the photos are to you before making a decision.

In amongst the trees 2

How much do top wedding photographers charge?

As a rule of thumb, you’ll want to select your wedding photographer amongst the first 3 suppliers as soon as possible. The other two being your venue and celebrant – and perhaps your videographer. The best wedding photographers book out at least a year in advance and if you love their work it’s best to lock them in as soon as you have made your choice.

An average wedding photographer in Adelaide, Australia according to the annual Easy Weddings survey of bridal couples is just shy of $3000, so pricing of photographers should be around, or just above that figure for someone who truely knows what they are doing and who you can trust.

Thera, Santorini Wedding

How Long Do I Need My Photographer for?

The duration you need a photographer for depends on your specific needs and preferences. Some photographers offer whole-day packages, while others offer more affordable hourly services.

Consider which events you want to be documented, such as the wedding ceremony, reception, and any pre-wedding preparations. If you want a comprehensive visual record of your special day, it may be best to opt for a whole-day package that includes coverage of all events.

Closeup of groom’s watch

If you want your wedding album to tell a complete story, including the lead-up to the ceremony and the reception, then having a photographer with you all day may be the best option. This allows them to capture every aspect of your wedding and create a cohesive visual narrative that tells the story of your special day.

Another benefit of having a photographer with you all day is that they have more time to get to know you and your personalities, which can result in more personalized and meaningful photos. If you’re worried about feeling uncomfortable in front of the camera, consider scheduling an engagement shoot with your photographer beforehand. This can help you feel more relaxed and comfortable in front of the camera on your wedding day.

Ultimately, the duration you need a photographer for depends on your priorities and budget. Consider which events you want to be documented, how comprehensive you want your wedding album to be, and how much you’re willing to spend before making a decision.

Bridal exit under bubbles

How Comfortable Are My Partner and I With Being Photographed?

Some couples will hire a wedding photographer simply because it’s custom to do so. If you’re camera-shy, having a photographer hover around you all day might take away from the overall experience of becoming a newlywed even though a good candid and natural wedding photographer will do their best to become invisible during the day.

Laughing in the vines

On the other end of the spectrum, some couples love being photographed and might even consider an engagement shoot. Which category do you and your loved one fall under?

This all being said however, If I had a dollar every time I heard that a couple is not good in front of a camera I’d probably be on a yacht in the bahamas somewhere.. The trick to taking nice candid photographs is simply having the couple do something while you’re taking your photos.

Bride and groom on Maslins Beach

What Other Products Do I Want from My Photographer?

Nowadays, wedding photographers offer more than just their service. They’ll also print your photos in an album, provide a photo booth for guests, produce wall art, or even offer hybrid shooting where they also produce a short highlight video so you save money on a separate videographer.

Think about what products you must have versus those that are merely nice to have. Alternatively, you might be entirely satisfied to receive a digital copy of your photos—nothing extra. Selecting a wedding photographer that offers exactly what you want is important. You don’t want to be stuck with albums or prints you’d never use, but it’s also important to select a wedding phtoographer that do offer such things as an option.

Digital Deluxe Album

Have I Received Any Recommendations?

If a married friend is suggesting their previous photographer, it’ll likely be for a good reason. Look into their portfolio and give them a call—you might even get a discount thanks to the friend referral.

Make sure they suit your own personal style though. Plenty of people opt to have a photographer that shoots in a current ‘trendy’ way that may age or rub you the wrong way to look at. You have to remember that these photos you’re having taken need to speak to your own personal style and allow them to store your memories in a way you’d want to look at them

Out on pride rock

How do I look good in wedding photos?

Looking good in wedding photos is a common concern for many couples. While every wedding photographer is unique in their methods and aesthetic, there are some general tips that can help you look your best in your wedding photos.

First and foremost, it’s important to feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera. If you’re feeling nervous or self-conscious, it may show in your photos. One way to feel more at ease is to practice posing and expressions beforehand. You can also schedule an engagement shoot with your photographer to get more comfortable in front of the camera.

Laughing bride in weeping willows

Another tip is to pay attention to your posture and body language. Stand up straight, keep your shoulders back, and relax your arms at your sides. Avoid slouching or crossing your arms, which can make you look tense or defensive in photos.

Makeup and hair styling can also make a big difference in how you look in photos. Consider hiring a professional makeup artist and hairstylist to ensure you look your best on your wedding day.

Putting on Makeup in car at SC Pannell Winery

Finally, communicate your preferences and vision for your photos when selecting a wedding photographer. Do you prefer candid shots or posed photos? Are you looking for a vintage or editorial style? Your photographer can adjust their techniques and approach to meet your preferences and ensure you get the photos you want. Be sure you compare what you’d like with your potential photographer’s portfolio of previous work.

Remember, the most important thing is to enjoy your special day and be yourself. If you’re relaxed, happy, and comfortable, it will show in your photos and help you look your best.

bride looking out windows

While reliving your Big Day in your head might bring about nostalgic feelings, being able to reminisce over a collection of photos provides a different experience. Don’t rush your decision when it comes to selecting your wedding photographer, the memories will last you a lifetime and the process of selecting a wedding photographer will allow you to hold onto those memories in exactly the way you want.

At SvenStudios, we capture every moment of your Big Day with passion, romance, and joy. We are consistantly rated as some of the top wedding photographers in Australia and our packages come full of value. Keen to travel anywhere too, so when selecting a wedding photographer, keep us in mind!

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The 7 Don’ts of a Family Photoshoot

  • Family walking though trees

The 7 Don’ts of a Family Photoshoot

You’ve come across the perfect Adelaide photographer to take your family pictures—now it’s only a matter of time until your session. With a dreamy and carefree image in mind, you can’t wait to run across that meadow rife with daisies or lift your darling infant above your shoulders to capture their winning smile. Yet, family photography isn’t as easy as pie. To achieve a smooth and spirited shoot, take note of the following photography sins you’ll want to avoid at all times.

Mummy cuddles

DON’T – Put Too Much Pressure on Yourself

“Picture perfect” is a phrase you’ll likely think of when it comes to conducting a family portrait—but hardly will a session go precisely the way you’ve planned. Don’t attach high expectations to what is supposed to be a fun-filled day of clicks and flashes. Smile more and worry less!

Hazing the new guy

DON’T – Skimp on Finding the Right Photographer

Just because your idea is a stellar one doesn’t mean just anyone can pull it off. Regardless of how well-meaning and patient a photographer may be, a fashion expert, for instance, may not have a knack for family photos. Take a look at a photographer’s social media and previous work before concluding.

Hadley sitting pretty

DON’T – Pick a Day or Time That Doesn’t Suit You

It should go without saying that a family photoshoot must involve every member. While accommodating a photographer’s busy schedule might mean having to wait longer than you’d hope, you don’t want to de-prioritise yours either.

Pick a day that won’t mean having to put off an important meeting or re-schedule a dinner. Plan around an open weekend and take into account any potential upcoming events.

The time of day, and weather is also very important when determining the quality of the actual photos you will recieve. It’s best to shoot as early in the day or as late as possible for the so called ‘golden hours‘ of photography.

Semaphore Beach Sunset

DON’T – Wing Your Location

If you have a particular theme in mind for your family photoshoot, don’t ignore the importance of selecting an appropriate location. Think about whether you’ll better achieve your goals in a studio or outside space.

You’ll also want to account for weather. A lush field of flowers, for example, might only be available in the spring, whereas a shoot down by the beach might be more appropriate during the summer than in the winter.

Kuitpo forest couple shoot

DON’T – Forget to Pre-Plan

Families often underestimate the value of pre-planning. If you’re heading into a shoot with younger children, you’ll want to be well-equipped with snacks, water, and toys to keep the little ones entertained. If your photographer doesn’t provide props, you may have to pack those yourself. But try to keep these at a minimum.

It may also be the case that people arent morning people, or some other reason why people can’t arrive on time. Try to plan around this as much as possible and the shoot will be much more enjoyable for everyone involved.

Family photography

DON’T – Take All Day

Regardless of how much your tots enjoy being in front of the camera, too much is often too much. Especially shooting outdoors, spending more than an hour or two under the sun can be incredibly tiring for both your family and photographer. Stick to a schedule or know when to take a break.

An hour is a long time taking photos and in my experience it’s a perfect time scalke in order to get some great photos!

Family portrait

DON’T – Plan Too Many Outfit Changes

Most families will undergo one or two outfit changes during a shoot—but if there aren’t enough dressing rooms to cater to larger families, you won’t want to overpack. Similarly, if you’re working within a time limit, too many outfit changes might take away from the actual shoot.

Grooms shoes in woods

The key to a successful family photo shoot is a lot of careful planning, shopping for the right photographer, and making sure your family is well-rested before the big day. You may not avoid the occasional toddler meltdown—but you can plan around it. Hopefully this short list of ‘don’ts of a family photoshoot’ can help out with capturing some amazing photos!

For family photography in Adelaide that never disappoints, contact us at Sven Studios. We have a knack for working with families from all walks of life and maybe even a soft spot for kids!

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3 Surprising Benefits of Hanging Family Photos in Your Home

Family photos displayed in frames by the entryway or hung on the accent wall are common sights in a family home. These souvenirs remind you and your family about holidays, milestones and of course snap shots of a moment in time. They put a personal touch in every residence to make it feel more like a home.

However, these framed pictures aren’t just for show and nostalgia. They also provide several surprising benefits that can keep the positive vibe of your home.

Family photo through the weeping willows

3 Surprising Benefits of Hanging Family Photos in Your Home

 

Although digital platforms can be better and simpler curators for photos and videos, nothing beats the warmth printed and framed photographs bring. Besides being a great addition to your home’s interior, they also provide some surprising benefits in your household. Hopefully this outline of the often unknown benefits of hanging family photos help you realise you really need to have this done for yourselves!

  1. Displaying family portraits improve your child’s confidence levels

As a registered and trained teacher in South Australia, I can honestly say that being heard is one of the best ways to improve your child’s confidence. Displaying family portraits in your home can help your children develop healthy levels of self-esteem. It allows them to embrace the fact that they belong and that they have value. Psychologists believe that pictures can send signals to a child’s brain that they are important members of a family unit.

The presence of these photographs exceptionally contributes to your child’s growth and development, even until they reach their teenage years. Besides displaying these photos, you should also give them opportunities to plan and direct these photos. Being involved gives them a sense of responsibility and control, whether you ask for their input on what to wear or where to take the shot.

Family photography
  1. Looking at family portraits strengthens the family unit

Family photos don’t just affect your children, but also your entire family. Psychologist Judy Weiser notes that looking at photographs can reduce people’s sense of loneliness. When someone sees a photo of them with the important people in their lives, their trust and positive regard for these individuals grow stronger and deeper. Because of this, households that display family photos have stronger bonds with their family.

Although some members pass away or live on in their own homes, one of the benefits of hanging family photos is that looking at these family photos sustains their sense of being together. This is why families can still have deep relationships, even if some members are no longer physically with them at home.

Proud Grandpa
  1. Reminiscing while looking at photos uplifts your mood

We are sensory creatures who can change our feelings and behaviors based on the things we see, hear, taste, touch, or feel. It’s no surprise that photographs can affect our emotions since they allow us to relive the memories in them. Have you ever asked yourself why this is the case?

Psychology professor Fred Bryant notes that photos that trigger positive memories remind you of the same feeling you experienced in the past. Think of it as mental time travel. It allows you to receive a sense of fulfillment and love, promoting positive psychological health. This is why looking at fond memories of the past can make it easier to overcome the days when you’re in a bad place.

Happy Dad

 

Adding a personal touch to your home is one of the more apparent advantages of displaying family portraits. Besides being an attractive wall piece, these will remind you of your family’s bond that will stay strong amidst the challenges that life brings.

Newborn Foot mould and photo

Treasuring your positive memories with your loved ones is an excellent way to maintain a healthy relationship. If you need a company that produces amazing family photography in Adelaide, our trained photographers can assist you. Book our services today, and we’ll make sure to capture your moments and milestones into timeless souvenirs and bring the benefits of hanging family photos to your home!

 

 

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6 Reasons Why an Engagement Shoot Is a Must Have

Why an Engagement Shoot Is a Must

Finally—you’re engaged!, and nothing could be more exciting! For most couples, this time as an enormously stressful one, especially with the wedding planning going on left and right.

One point of contention amidst the flurry of organising the wedding is whether or not an engagement photoshoot is necessary. You may ask yourself if it’s really worth spending your money on. Engagement shoots, however, are more than just nice-to-haves in the grander scheme of things; it can actually have several practical benefits.

6 Reasons Why an Engagement Shoot Is a Must Have

To emphasise this point, here are six reasons why an engagement photoshoot is a must!:

Tiwi Islands Engagement

 

  1. You can get comfortable with the camera

A situation wherein either the bride or the groom doesn’t feel at their best on the big day because they’re incredibly camera-shy is something the couple and the photographer want to avoid. An engagement shoot is a perfect opportunity to warm up to the camera and get some practice on comfortable poses in. Doing this before the big day can make you feel much more relaxed, and the photos will turn out much better.

On the jetty together
  1. It gives you a chance to find the right wedding photographer

Some photographers will get on with a couple swimmingly while others will have a different style that doesn’t quite match. Remember, you must choose your wedding photographer carefully, as it is a significant investment, after all!

It’s not enough to simply browse a photographer’s portfolio. If you can, book a session with them to see if their work fits your preferences. While some photographers offer free or discounted engagement photo sessions, it might be worth spending just a bit more to make sure the photographs are to your liking.

Not only will this ensure that you get the results you want, but your overall experience will be more pleasant too. Building rapport with your photographer is important, as they will be with you for many hours. As they get to know you as a couple, your wedding photographer will also understand how to capture the both of you in the best way possible.

Surprise!
  1. You’re celebrating an important milestone

The wedding itself often eclipses engagements, but they are nevertheless a milestone that should be celebrated. Being engaged tells everyone of your commitment to one another forever as future husband and wife. It is a beautifully unique period between being in a relationship and getting married that you’ll want to capture in photos.

One Tree Hill Engagement shoot
  1. You can combine it with your hair and make-up trial before the big day

Before the wedding, there’s always a trial day for the bride’s hair and makeup. What better way to capture how they’ll look in photos on the wedding day than your engagement shoot? This kills two birds with one stone and can save a lot of time and effort in scheduling wedding preparations for the wedding on different days.

makeup
  1. You’ll have photos to use for the wedding day

By doing a photoshoot early on, you’ll have pictures to use for your save the dates, invites, or on the day itself. It’s a win-win scenario for everyone!

It’s quite a common thing I’ve seen recently where a couple who had done an engagement shoot had a large printed photo on display above their wishing well at their reception. It’s a nice way to personalise the space!

Under the jetty
  1. A chance to have fun and be creative!

Wacky and themed engagement shoots are also a great chance to get some cool shots in your wedding photo book. Maybe you’re both Star Wars geeks or Game of Thrones fans. While you don’t have to use these for your wedding, they’ll certainly be fun to keep for yourselves!

Kung Fu!

The Final Word: Are Engagement Photoshoots Worth It?

Engagement photoshoots are not just nice-to-have, but they have a suitable place for your wedding plans too. It can act as preparation for the big day, especially where actual wedding photos are concerned. Besides being an opportunity to commemorate your engagement, engagement photoshoots make part of the wedding planning process easier, and with beautiful photos, to boot!

Are you looking for wedding photography packages in Adelaide? Sven Studios offers professional wedding photography services to capture your special day in the most natural way possible. We cover weddings all around Australia, including Adelaide, Hobart, Darwin, Canberra, and Perth. Visit our site today to view our wedding photography packages!

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Getting Camera Shy Husbands Comfortable for a Family PhotoShoot

  • Bride stepping on groomsmen

 

Camera Shy Husbands

Every family needs a few good photos to display in their home. As simple as taking a photo might sound, there’s always that one family member that doesn’t like posing for them – and it’s quite often the husband!

As frustrating as that sounds, this is not entirely unusual. After all, not everybody is accustomed to smiling on cue! Many people have trouble expressing their emotions on command and don’t care for cheesy, choreographed poses for fear of looking awkward or forced.

If this describes your husband, then you’re in luck! We have prepared three ways that you can convince camera shy husbands to cooperate for your planned family shoot.

Getting Camera Shy Husbands Comfortable for a Family Photo Shoot

Speak from the heart

It’s no secret that a lot of husbands have trouble processing their emotions. Chalk it up to a hard upbringing or less than healthy media representations of men. Whatever the reason for it might be, it’s best to approach your partner with your honest intentions, letting them know of your desire to have a professional family photoshoot done.

It’s a good idea to remind him that your young and adorable kids won’t remain the way they are today for long! Time flies by very fast—and before you notice it, your kids could be moving for college in a different state, making their own way in the world!

You and your husband probably aren’t getting any younger too. Having a photo of you and your kids sooner than later will allow you to capture this specific moment in time, where your family is still growing and has a lot of good years ahead of you. This picture will be a good reminder of what life you’ve had, as you and your husband spend your time reminiscing about days past.

Smiling bride looking at her groom

Get a skilled photographer

If your words don’t compel him, maybe a few sample works will! As much as they deny it, husbands are very emotional too. It may just be a matter of presenting the right material to trigger that soft side of theirs.

If you haven’t chosen a photographer yet, try to seek out a photographer that has a style of family portraits that most suits you, and try not to have the price be too much of a hang up. This is an investment in your memories so it’s not really something to cheap out on.

Have someone who can capture your kid’s anticipation while waiting for you to finish that Saturday’s breakfast pancakes. Get a family photographer who can encapsulate the warmth of having you and your kids share a laugh while watching your favourite cartoons. These are fleeting moments that matter the most but are the easiest to forget.

Once you find that photographer, have them send over a few of his best photographs, or look throguh their website. If the thought of experiencing these moments without having the means to experience them again doesn’t at least make your husband reconsider, then move on to the next tip!

Fussing family

Negotiate

Every man has a price. As this is camera shy husbands we are talking about, this is obviously something he might not like to do, perhaps sweeten the deal with something he likes? As a man myself I can confirm I am just a big kid at heart, so what works with a 10 year old would probably work here too.

Get creative about it too! Whether it’s allowing him a night off with his boys, giving him control of the television remote for a week, or buying him that shining set of golf clubs that he’s been talking about for months, he’s bound to give in at some point. Maybe something as simple as a chocolate bar? Little acts of affection can go a long way!

Whatever you do, just make sure that he understands that he needs to agree to the family photoshoot.

Cheese

 

Photographs freeze certain moments in time, allowing us to go back at a later date and experience them again with a glance. Family members come and go: kids and grandkids grow up and move on—but photographs remain, and the memories they bring back are there for you to cherish forever.

Having a camera shy husband hampering your efforts in capturing this moment in your family’s life need not force you to abandon the idea, just work on the idea and I’m sure he’ll come around 🙂