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5 Tips To Achieve Perfect Wedding Photos Without A Photographer

5 Tips To Achieve Perfect Wedding Photos Without A Photographer 

Planning a wedding is perhaps one of the most exciting journeys in one’s life. The joy of sharing such a milestone with the person you want to spend the rest of your days with is quite an experience you wish to intimately remember in more ways than one. However, a wedding is also a bed of roses that consists of challenges you need to overcome as a couple. 

Among these challenges would be the financial burden that a wedding can painstakingly take its toll on you. Even if you want the best for your special day, the budget can restrict you from having the best and the most expensive things. But of course, there’s no way you’re letting the burden get the best of you. Instead, you have to think of ways to achieve the wedding of your dreams on a budget. 

Wedding Photography 101: Sans The Photographer 

Naturally, your instinct would be to make a list of wedding preps and effects that you can downgrade or possibly get rid of so you can save more money. For sure, not hiring a professional photographer has crossed your mind, especially after knowing the typical rates of such services nowadays.  Capturing wedding photos without a photographer is sure to save a chunk of money!

Personally as a professional photographer myself, I’d always advise against foregoing such an expense, as the photography you receive as a result of your wedding often represents the only memories you will retain going forward with your life. However I am also realistic with the notion that photographs are not always the most important items on people’s checklists. Hence this blog post! This may also help you realise how valuable having someone who has the experience is!

Wedding Photos

If you’re wondering if you could make it work, here are some tips you can try to achieve the perfect wedding photos without a photographer: 

  • Invest In A Good Camera 

You may think that this isn’t a practical tip since you still have to shell out money to purchase your first camera. However, if you think about it, investing in a good one won’t only mean having the ability to take beautiful and high-quality photos for your big day. Even when the day is over, the camera stays with you, and you can use it for other special memories you want to capture as you embark on your married life.  

Moreover, there are several digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) cameras in the market that you can consider based on your budget. They’re fairly easy to use and won’t even require professional skills to operate them. Alternatively, you can consider buying a second-hand camera that can serve the same purpose.

  • Know What Accessories You Need 

To make sure your camera will work as expected, you might want to consider purchasing additional gear and accessories for an ultimate setup. A tripod, for one, can greatly help in stabilizing the camera. Hence, you won’t need to worry about blurry or out-of-focus shots.  

Having a tripod also makes it possible to get photos of you and your spouse together, mainly if no one else knows how to use the gear. Group shots are also achievable because of this incredible accessory.

Just make sure you learn how to assemble and attach the timer so you won’t have a hard time navigating it when the day of the wedding comes. Also, find out how to set the camera’s timer, which will be greatly useful when you’re taking group and couple shots. 

  • Make Use Of Beautiful And Natural Backdrops 

If you’re having an outdoor wedding, you won’t run out of beautiful and creative ideas for a backdrop. Trees and flowering plants will suffice if you want to capture candid and romantic photos of yourself and your partner. If you can’t find such options, you can also take pictures in the venue with a stunning view or setting. 

If you know you won’t have enough natural backdrops to utilize, you can prepare a dedicated corner in the venue where you can set up a photo booth of some sort. You can then adorn it with artificial or fresh flowers, depending on your budget. 

  • Ask Your Guests And Friends 

Although you can try, it’s nearly impossible to do all the picture taking yourself. There’ll be times when you need to entertain your wedding guests, so it’s also a good idea to ask your friends if they can hold the camera for a few minutes and start snapping away when you’re too occupied to do it. 

If you have friends who are good with cameras, try to ask for their help. Just be sure not to burden them entirely because, of course, they also want to enjoy the day as much as everyone else does. 

You could also host a bit of a ‘photo hunt‘ with your guests using a QR code based photo collection app like Selfbooth. This gives your guests a bit of a gamified reason to head out and take photos for you during your day, and with everyone with a smart phoone on them these days should result in a lot of photos.

Wedding photo hunt invitation encourages guests to capture and share memorable moments using a QR code, with a list of suggested shots to photograph.

  • Seize The Lighting 

If you don’t know it yet, certain times of the day are considered the best times to take amazing photos. The golden hour, for example, is when the sunlight is less squinting and can look naturally beautiful when taken at a good angle. To achieve perfect wedding photos, it’s recommended you start your pictorial at least an hour before sunset.  

You can use the camera’s flash to avoid getting annoying shadows on faces, especially if you’re doing the shoot outdoors. Additionally, pay extra attention to everything around your image. Eyesores can easily get captured in your photos, such as garbage cans or a tree branch obscuring your face.

Wedding photos in album

Final Thoughts 

Wedding photos don’t have to be expensively taken for them to be beautiful. Sometimes, all it takes is a good eye and enough preparation on your end. If you want to save chunks of money on your wedding day, consider taking your own photos. Just be sure to consider some of the tips above so you can have perfect photos.

I’m not going to lie, being your own photographer and shooting wedding photos without a photographer is going to be tricky, but it probably can be done!

 

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A Professional Wedding Photographer’s Advice to Every Couple

A Wedding Photographer’s Advice to Every Couple

Every couple should make sure they have done all the research to ensure their big day’s success. Look up the do’s and don’ts and the must-have lists, so you don’t miss any essential details in your wedding photography, videography and your day in general! While searching online and asking friends can give them good advice, one crucial source they might miss out on is their wedding photographer themself. 

Your wedding phtoographer is bound to be an endless source of wedding information – particularly if they are someone like me who not only loves the idea of being at weddings every weekend, but also the reason why we do what we do at weddings – from historical traditon to modern day convenience or prestige.

This article will enumerate five pieces of advice to every couple that professional wedding photographers want everyone to know about planning their wedding day. 

Family together on wedding day

Advice to Every Couple

1: Let Your Photographer Join You When Making a Shot List

The shot list a crucial document for every wedding. This list includes the wishlist of images that the couple wants captured. While any couple is free to write whatever they want, seeking the photographer’s opinion could result in a better list. 

Wedding photographers have attended and witnessed more weddings than any other likely at attendance at your wedding, so they have a fundamental understanding of the must-haves in wedding photography. Moreover, they are creative, so they could help you develop portrait concepts that are unique and more meaningful. By consulting them, you could ensure that you do not miss any vital shot. 

Try not to go overboard though with your list – the best wedding photographs are always taken using the unique combination of your photographer’s creativity and the circumstances on your day. A list is best for making sure the images you imagine in your minds eye are captured in addition to all the other images your phtogroapher will be taking.

Whats most important though is to make a group shot list so that we do not miss any group photos as your phtoographer will not know anyone in attendance and how any one relates to anyone else.

group photo at Alru Farm wedding

2: Add a “First Look” to Your Shot List

It’s traditonal that that the soon-to-be husband and wife should not see each other until the ceremony. However, if you’re the type opf people not overly beholden to the whole ‘traditonal’ thing, having a “first look” is a nice thing to consider. It is the moment when a couple can have their alone time before the ceremony.

Capturing the raw and intimate moment between asoon to be wedded couple is an excellent memory to keep, letting them enjoy each other’s company before the busy celebration also means they are at their best—less stressed. It also allows for your phtoographer to get a little closer as opposed to being out the front of your wedding congregation for the same emotion-filled shots.

Bridal first look

3: Draft a Timeline 

Aside from the list of group shots, it is imperative to set up a general timeline of your day. Make sure that you and your photographer, along with all your other wedding vendors are aligned.

Backed with their experience, they could help you draft the most efficient and straightforward schedule. They can suggest adjustments to ensure that your wedding would not run behind schedule, even with all the breaks to take photos. Involving them in the planning process guarantees, they do not miss your special photography notes and requests. 

It’s usually the case that when first meeting your wedding photogrrapher they will probably run you through a simple timeline themselves using what they consider, using their own experience to be a good, steady flow of a day.

Wedding dress reflected in mirror

4: Prepare All Props and Keep Them in One Place

Wedding props, such as wedding invitations, bouquets, and wedding rings, are essential elements of your day and you;’ve probably spent hours agonising over them leading up to your day. They should be part of your wedding photography too. Your photographers will be on the lookout for such personal touches on your day, however they are are not mind readers though, so my advice to every couple is that if there is something important that you must have a photo of, feel free to alert them to this fact.

Table settings

5: Only Hire Photographers You Trust

It is usual for couples to want to be hands-on even during the ceremony to make sure their requests are followed, but it defeats the purpose of them enjoying their day. That is why it is important to collaborate with reputed providers—the right caterer, wedding planner, DJ, and so on. If you believe in the talents and capabilities of your wedding crew, then you have nothing to worry about. You would just be surprised by what they can bring to the table.

Bride and Groom in Wellington park

Memories are important and can never be repeated or forgotten. That is why it is essential to have a well-documented wedding day. Wedding photographs have now become one of the most crucial elements in modern weddings. While there is a huge amount that goes into planning a wedding, these simple pieces of advice to every couple might make things a little easier on you. Would love to have a chat about your spoecific day as everyone is different!

For your wedding photography needs, Sven Studios is more than happy to capture beautiful memories on your special day. We provide our clients with professional wedding solutions and capture the best moments of their life in the most natural way possible. Contact us today!

 

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5 Wedding Moments That Look Good When Naturally Captured

Natural Wedding Moments

So it’s finally your wedding day. You spent so much time planning it and making sure all the preparations go accordingly that you found yourself stressing over it for the past several months. Now that the much-awaited moment of your life has come, all you have to do is live your best day and hope it doesn’t end too soon!

When you hire wedding photographers to document the most memorable occasion of your life, you may tend to feel conscious about each pose you and your partner make. You can’t help but be nervous about how the photos will turn out, especially if you aren’t used to being in front of a camera. It’s crucial to avoid overthinking the situation because you aren’t strictly required to pose. In fact, depending on the style of photographer you choose, your photographers will prefer it if you keep it as natural and candid as possible! 

Keep reading below to find out some of the best wedding moments that can be perfectly captured on camera without the need to pose so much. 

Monique Anthony

5 Wedding Moments That Look Good When Naturally Captured

Trying on the Dress

It’s every bride’s dream to wear the perfect wedding dress on their big day. You spend months or even years finding inspiration for the dress you want, looking for a reliable tailor, and waiting for the day you can finally fit into it. On your wedding day, when you finally put on the gown, you don’t have to think about anything and let the natural emotions flow—and that precise moment makes for an unforgettable wedding photo.

Al-Ru Farm bridal preparation

The Groom’s Preparation

Just like the bride, the wedding is also a groom’s big day, so he should also be given his fair share of the spotlight. While a groom’s preparation can much faster than the bride’s, every step involved counts—from putting on the shoes, buttoning the suit jacket, and buckling the belt, to wearing the watch and securing the bow tie in place. The groom’s preparation should also be best captured as naturally as possible to really showcase the emotions leading up to the actual ceremony.

Groom staring out window

The Walk Down the Aisle

The most stereo-typical moment of every wedding is when everyone is gathered at your wedding venue waiting for the bride to finally walk down the aisle. As soon as she enters, the groom finally gets to lay his eyes on his soon-to-be wife—which is a moment of pure magic.

Given its intense nature, it’s the very moment that has to be captured candidly because you don’t have to think about anything else—not even the photographers. All you have to do is focus on the moment and see the people you love, especially the person you’re looking forward to spending the rest of your life with.

Bride arriving

The Slices of Life

Part of wedding photography is ensuring that not all the necessary poses have to be serious and planned out all the time. The random moments where everyone is laughing and having a good time are the ones that are best captured on camera, without you even remembering that there are photographers present. They often happen during the preparation and the reception.

Laughing couple

The Couple Shots

Even though there will still be times that a wedding photographer will ask you to do specific poses, you can play around with the shot however you like. If it comes down to the intimate couple photos where you’re strolling along the wedding venue, you can genuinely be yourself with your partner. It’s one of the few moments you can be together, and there’s no one with you, so you should savour the moment and let the photographers do their magic. 

Kangraoo Island Elopement photoshoot

A wedding happens only once in your lifetime. Instead of going over how you want it to happen, it’s best to let things be and enjoy every second of it. When it comes to wedding photography, you can leave it to the experts and let them handle the shots—because more often than not, the candid photos make the best memories. The wedding moments captured by your photographer will better represent you as a couple, rather than a contrived overly-posed ‘representation’ of the day. 

Are you looking for wedding photography packages in Australia for your special day? Sven Studios offers wedding photography and videography services in Adelaide and around Australia. Get in touch with us today to inquire about our prices!

 

 

 

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4 Questions to Ask During Last-Minute Wedding Planning

  • Grooms watch on ties

 

Last-Minute Wedding Planning

Let’s face it: love can be a whirlwind experience. One day, you may just go out on a date, then tomorrow you find yourself walking down the aisle because your heart is ready to say “I do”. Because of this, you are forced to go through last-minute wedding planning, which can easily be pulled off if you know what you need and find the right people to help you.

To get started, consider the following questions you and your soon-to-be spouse should ask yourselves:

4 Questions to Ask During Last-Minute Wedding Planning

  • Do you have the necessary itinerary for your friends and family for your wedding? 

If you plan to do a destination wedding, which means holding a wedding in a beautiful location of your choosing, you have to ensure that everyone you care about is there to watch you get married, like your friends and family. While it may be fun to think everyone is available, that is always not the case. particularly with travel restrictions due to COVID.

Since time is of the essence here, you first need to check who can make it to your big day, include them in your group travel plans, have the necessary accommodations ready, and coordinate with them about the fine details. This part of wedding planning can be the most exciting yet tedious, so ensure you get the help you need from either your partner or a planner. 

It’s been a common occurrence – particularly in the past year for couples to have a tiny ceremony, and perhaps plan for a family celebration later

Santorini Couple Shoot

  • What do you want to eat during your reception? 

The reception is what your guests would look forward to the most on your day, since you and your guests get to mingle and meet your partner. You do have to take note of the activities, like who will perform or give their speech, but the highlight of the reception will always be the food. It’s a way to entertain your guests and showcase your tastes as a couple by selecting the menu options you want. 

Eating the food

  • Have you bought the rings yet? 

As surprising as it might be, many people overlook the need to purchase rings when last-minute wedding planning! It’s just something that is taken for granted and as it doesn’t effect anyone but yourselves, is something people forget.

The rings are a reflection of your tender bond as a married couple, so it’s not something that you should ever forget to shop for when you are planning your big day at the last minute. Luckily, you can always purchase them online and find favourable options within your budget. You don’t necessarily have to go for luxury-looking pieces; it really boils down to your preferences as a couple. 

Wedding rings on tie 2

  • Did you hire a wedding photographer and plan your photo ops already? 

Ok, as a wedding photographer this may be a little biased, but your photos are the only thing you will have to document this whirlwind portion of your life after the big moment! Your wedding photography costs tend to be on the high side so it’s super important that you are happy with your photgorapher and what they offer you adn your wedding day!

The best way to do so and document every lovely moment is to hire a wedding photographer right away! Also, you may want to set up your photo ops, like the creative shot or group shot, which are the quintessential wedding photos to have. These pictures can serve as gifts for your guests while reminding them of your special day and how they were a huge part of it! 

The fun thing about last-minute wedding planning is that you may have to plan for a smaller wedding – which means you can have all the time in the world to travel to some funky spot for your photos. this cannot always be done on a typical wedding day.

bride and groom in the water

Wedding planning traditionally takes months or even years to accomplish, but who’s to say you can’t say do so in a few days? After all, if your heart is in the right place and you have your life partner by your side, who else is there to stop you? Thus, ensure you start now, consider the following questions mentioned above, and tick off “find a wedding photographer” from your list because we’ve got you covered!

Sven Studios can provide you with the best wedding photography Adelaide has to offer, allowing you, your partner, and your guests to have picture-perfect moments worth revisiting. Our team of professional photographers can take you through different creative shots and produce high-resolution wedding photos. Download our price list and determine which option fits best for your big day! 

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4 Tips to Get The Best Engagement Photos

  • OMG it's an engagement ring

 

Get The Best Engagement Photos

As a soon-to-be bride or husband, you may be wondering whether it’s essential to have an engagement photoshoot before your wedding. You may tend to overlook it, especially with how overwhelming the wedding planning and preparation can be, but your engagement photos can be just as important as your wedding photos. 

Getting your engagement photos taken is a great way to meet your wedding photographer and establish a connection with them. Remember that they will be with you for much of the day on your wedding day, which is one of the most intimate days of your life, so it’s important that you feel comfortable around them as soon as possible. 

4 Tips to Get The Best Engagement Photos

Your engagement photoshoot can also serve as your test run for your big day. This is especially important if you get anxious in front of the camera and start wondering if your photos will turn out great. To ease all your worries and get the best engagement photos possible, here are some tips you can follow:

  • Have your pets join in

Your pet may be a part of your life to the point that they are now considered one of your family members. To make your engagement photos more exciting and add more personality to your photos, you can ask for your cat, dog, or other pets to join your photoshoot. Just make sure the spot where you’re planning on having your photos done allow for pets!

Dog running in the Ekhidna WInes vineyards

  • Use unique and fun props

The conventional bouquets and balloons may now be out of style as props for engagement photos, but other unique and fun items are welcome additions to your photoshoot. For instance, you can use props that signify your passions. If you are a music buff, show off your guitar as you pose to serenade your significant other. You may also use books as props if you love reading. 

To have romantic, creative engagement photos, you can share one ice cream, use Scrabble letter pieces as titles, or ride cars or motorcycles. Just make sure to use those that help you create your desired theme and photography style.

Balloon man

  • Choose a memorable destination

While you can capture stunning engagement photos anywhere, you can make your pictures look more appealing and heart-warming by choosing a place that holds a special place in your hearts. Pick a spot that represents a big part of your history or relationship story. For example, the destination could be a restaurant where you first met together or a tourist attraction where you proposed.

You can even shoot inside the home you grew up in, or your future home. This way, you are assured there will be fewer distractions. You can simply focus on posing and getting your best photos taken without worrying about the weather or the people outside.

Consider your personalities or wedding theme too; for example – it would be a bit odd to have a fairy themed wedding, only to have a photo shoot in a modern hotel.

Tiwi Islands Sunrise

  • Shoot during the best time of the day

The best time of the day for photoshoots is the golden hour. It usually takes place just an hour before sunset, and it is when the natural lighting is at its best. It lets you have effortlessly breath-taking and romantic-looking photos. However, you can still choose any time slot according to your preference and convenience.

Sunset proposal

An engagement photo session is a fun and memorable way to be better prepared for being photographed on your wedding day. To ensure you get the best engagement photos taken and bring home unforgettable memories that you will cherish forever, follow the tips listed above.

Don’t forget to hire professional photographers who are skilled and have the necessary equipment to take high-quality photos and have a chat with them as they are sure to have further ideas to get the best engagement photos beyond what’s in this short list.

Capture your love story in the best way possible by hiring SvenStudios. Our team specialises in wedding photography and offers wedding videography, engagement photography, and photo booths for hire in Adelaide. Contact us to book your session!