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How to get stunning wedding preparation photos

  • makeup

 

Get stunning wedding preparation photos

Sometimes the best parts of a wedding aren’t the bride’s entrance or the fun reception. It’s the moments leading up to the actual event when all the preparations are still taking place. These make for great photographs because they give a behind-the-scenes look at what it took for the couple, their loved ones, and guests to prepare for the big day.

If you consider your wedding album as a story, then the preparation photos are all about the personalities of the two main characters of your story, and the lead up to the big moment of your wedding ceremony – then the lovely dovey ‘living happily after’ bits at the end 🙂

How to get stunning wedding preparation photos

If you’re planning on having preparation photos with your wedding photographer, there are some aspects of your photography session that you will want to get just right. Here are some tips on how to get stunning wedding preparation photos –

Lighting

The most important component of photography is lighting as it will determine how well your photographer can capture the moment. Locations with good lighting sources will make it easier for both you and your photographer to get a good shot. While a photographer can make the best out of a bad situation, having difficult lighting conditions will definitely take more time and effort to work with.

For wedding preparation photos, it’s best to prepare the location beforehand. Most wedding preparations take place in a hotel or house, so scout for a good room that offers plenty of natural light and some nice ambient lighting as well. It’s important to visit the rooms themselves when checking wedding photo locations around Adelaide as they tend to look much larger in photos featured on the hotel’s websites. You’ll want to make sure your bridesmaids, groomsmen, and the photography crew will fit comfortably in the space you choose.

Bride looking out window at Thorngrove Manor

Tidy Spaces

Photographers can work with almost any environment they’re in, but most photos look best with plenty of open space and a minimal amount of clutter. Preparations tend to be quite a flurry of activity with make-up and clothes all over the place. Cleaning up the room where the photographs will be taken will have them looking much cleaner, more professional, and more worthy of keeping in your collection of wedding photos.

Wedding dress hung in window

Less is More

When getting ready for your wedding, try to limit the number of family members who help you get ready, at least for the duration of the photoshoot. Although it’s nice to have everybody involved, photographers will sometimes have to contend with multiple requests for photos with the bride and groom when the focus should be on the couple getting ready for their big day.

It will likely become a process that will stress you out, especially with getting ready being as hectic as it is—and adding extended family to distract you can be extra trying for your patience too! For preparations to go smoothly, it’s best to have just the bridal party and groomsmen, parents, and siblings to help the couple.

Taking the wedding dress for a spin

Hair & Makeup

Great preparation photos will also depend on the quality of hair and make-up. While it’s fun to have a few photos with rollers in your hair, it’s best to have variety in your shots to show the progression of your getting ready. Most photographers will recommend that you have most of your make-up and hair done before the shoot begins so that there’s not as much waiting to do.

Hiring a professional make-up artist is strongly recommended to get the best results since they’ll know how to make it flattering for both the camera flash and in-person. It cannot be understaated the importance of this to get stunning wedding preparation photos! It would also be worth doing a trial make-up run before the actual day to make sure that it is exactly the look you’re going for to avoid being late and having the photoshoot take longer than usual.

Saving time on hair and makeup will allow the photographer to get more pictures of you getting ready. Fixing up your dress, talking to your bridal party and family, and perhaps even enjoying a glass of champagne before the walk down the aisle are all important moments to capture!

Bride having makeup done

 

Having wedding preparation photos is all about capturing the moments leading up to the one monent everybody has been waiting for: when the bride and groom are finally married. Finding a photographer that you can trust to capture your most intimate and precious times with your soon-to-be spouse is crucial to make those memories in between the big event last a lifetime.

Having photos taken while you’re getting dressed, isn’t the most natural thing in the world, so it’s important you ‘click’ with your photographer so that you feel that much more comfortable and get stunning wedding preparation photos.

Some wedding photography packages in Adelaide will include wedding preparation photos. Here at Sven Studios, we offer professional wedding photographer solutions that will capture the best moments of your wedding day in a natural, fun, and relaxed way. To book us for your wedding, feels free to look through our website and browse our packages.

 

 

 

 

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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.

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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5 Tips for a Perfect Destination Photoshoot Session

  • Sun set on the rocks

Thinking of a Destination Photoshoot Session?

Your wedding is a once-in-a-lifetime event that you and your spouse-to-be will fondly look back to many years later. Your wedding photos are what will remind you of the precious memories of your big day.  As such, it’s become quite a popular thing to opt to have photos done before your wedding day, and to have a destination photoshoot session.

As you near your big day, you will want to make sure that you have wedding photographers to capture the best moments of your life. So going on a bit of a holiday, while also having a destination photoshoot session with your photographer is a neat way to get away for a bit, and also meet up with your photographer and see if you enjoy working together.

While some are content with the typical indoor or outdoor shoot, some couples go the extra mile and decide to hold their pre-wedding photoshoots overseas and feature iconic locations and sceneries rather than hosting a whole destination wedding. Tends to be cheaper that way too.

Santorini destination wedding photography

It’s not at all uncommon to visit places like Hawaii and notice dozens of bridal couples on the beach, often with drones and photographers swarming around. These couples arent celebrating their wedding day – it’s just their photoshoot so that they can enjoy their whole wedding day with their family and friends.

Although due to recent events such as the global COVID-19 pandemic, this isn’t happening as often anymore – you can still dream and plan to do so once it’s safe to do so again!

5 Tips for a Perfect Destination Photoshoot Session

If you are planning to do the same and have a destination photoshoot session, you might feel that the preparations are challenging and overwhelming, to say the least. To help you out and make sure everything goes well, we will share five destination photoshoot tips to help you achieve the perfect session:

  1. Coordinate with your photographer

Being in an unfamiliar location has its challenges. You will have to study the destination’s geographics better and discuss it with your photographers so that you can plan the photoshoot together and make the location work for your ideas. Additionally, knowing your locations better will help you make the proper preparations, from the schedule to the accommodation and the travel time.

Let your photographer know your preferences and the ideas that you have before the shoot so that you can make the necessary preparations instead of rushing everything last minute. Your photographer will probably be able to help out with this due to experience of shooting at the location, or generally which spots would and wouldn’t work due to the time you’re planning on going.

Alaska Destination wedding photography
  1. Read weather updates

Some couples usually overlook the importance of checking the weather when planning overseas photoshoots. To make sure your pre-wedding photoshoot goes smoothly, it helps to do plenty of research on your destination’s weather for your scheduled dates and its season. Again, ask your photographer what they recommend drawing on their experience.

In summer, popular summer destinations are usually crowded with tourists during the day, so this may present you with some challenges. During winter, the days are shorter than nights, meaning that you will have less time for natural daylight. Knowing these vital details can help you set appropriate expectations and plans for your wedding photos effectively.

Santorini destination wedding
  1. Plan your wardrobe and where you will get them

Another thing to prepare for a painless overseas pre-wedding shoot is your wardrobe. Start researching options for gown rentals near your destination, or if you’re planning on packing yourself, try not to pack more than two outfits as it can just get exhausting changing all the time.

Think about makeup too – source a local makeup artist and perhaps ask if they can follow along for at least a portion of your destination photoshoot session to completre any touchups.

Under the jetty
  1. Prepare a budget for your trip

The last thing you want to do throughout a destination adventure is to go over your budget because of hidden costs for transportation, accommodation, and food for your partner and crew. To avoid this, thoroughly check the terms and conditions of your package to make sure that there are no extra fees.

Sometimes locations ask for a permit to be paid in order to have photos taken on site – so do your research before rocking up

Also, set aside funds for attraction fees for the locations you will visit. Similarly, prepare enough currency so that you can easily pay for something when it’s needed.

Thorngrove Manor engagement shoot
  1. Enjoy the experience

The whole preparation may be stressful, but don’t forget to relax and enjoy your time with your partner! Remember, you are taking photos before your big day, so that you don’t have to stress and go through the whole press on your actual wedding day. Also you get amazing photos from the destination you chose!

At the same time though, do not be frustrated when things don’t go as planned – better now than on your wedding day. Things may always change when you’re on holday, or even overseas, but the important thing is to enjoy the moment you’re in with the person you love.

Darwin’s Pride rock

The reason why you’re planning a destination photoshoot session is so that you can save money by still having a photoshoot done in an amazing location, but not your whole wedding. The photos you take on this kind of photoshoot can be absolutely spectacular, while not having the stress of it being on your actual wedding day! You can enjoy yourself and the whole experience, making for genuine smiles and laughter, which will ultimately be the key to capturing beautiful photos.

If you’re planning a destination photoshoot session, I’d be absolutely keen to hear more about it! I’ve shot all around the world and would be keen to travel anywhere for it! Just get in contact and we’ll work something out!

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Ekhidna Wines Mclaren Vale Wedding – Nikki & Trenton

  • Bridal couple through the vines

I always love heading to Ekhidna Wines Mclaren Vale, as it’s one of my absolute favourite wineries in Mclaren Vale to shoot a wedding at! So I was excited to head there once again for Nikki and Trenton’s wedding that took place right at the end of October! The day was a little overcast and windy, but that diddnt hampen the spirits of these two lovely people and their guests!

Preparation

Trenton and his entourage were being prepared in a bed and breakfast on Main street Mclaren Vale, and while Trenton seems cool, calm and collected he was obviously trying to find things to do to keep his mind busy – but he certainly managed to do so, and had his groomsmen nearby to keep the nerves away!

Wedding rings on table top
Wedding rings on grooms shoes
Figuring out the flower
Groom buttoning up shirt
Groomsman walking the hallway
Groom helping best man get dressed
Groom playing funny buggers
The boys looking smashing

Nikki was being prepared a little further away in a hidden bed and breakfast nearber Kangarilla. It was a spectacular location, overlooking the rolling hills the region is so famous for and the building has some amazing architecture! Nikki was being helped to prepare by her sole bridesmaid/maid of honour which made for a very stress-less time!

Helping put on the wedding dress
bridal boots
Helping put on the wedding dress in front of window
Ring in flowers
Smiling bride with bouquet 3
Bride and maid of honour together

Ekhidna Wines Mclaren Vale Wedding Ceremony

Both Niki and trenton were quite excited by their bridal cars so they made a big entrance by driving right up onto the lawn near the vineyards at Ekhidna Wines Mclaren Vale. From there, the ceremony took place with the hills and vineyards in the background and was personalised by some funky personal quirky events Nikki and Trenton planned.

Things such as a coin toss to figure out who says their vows first, adn then their fur baby dog coming to visit as they signed their paper work. These sorts fo things are always guarnateed to put a smile on everyone’s face!

Groom watching bridal car arrive
bridal car arriving amongst vineyards
Bride looking out window of car
Bride in front of Ekhidna Winery Mclaren Vale
Grooms first look as she walks towards him
Groom looking at his bride during the ceremony 2
Ekhidna Winery Mclaren Vale Wedding Ceremony
Ekhidna Winery Mclaren Vale Wedding Ceremony Cloudy
Laughing bride 2
Bride and groom holding hands closeup
Laughing bride during vows
Groom listening to her vows
Bride and groom laughing together under the arbour
First kiss Ekhidna Winery Mclaren Vale
Smiling bride after first kiss
Best Man being as imposing as possible
Best wishes from fur baby
Ekhidna Winery Mclaren Vale wedding Ceremony on cloudy day
Kiss to the head of his bride

Glamour Photos

As their dog wasn’t going tostay long we began by taking some glamour photos of both Nikki and Trenton with their dog – however they were a little afraid that he would run off – so I ended up having to photoshop out the leash which was held by one of their sons as he ran with the dog down the vine ally way 🙂

The day’s weather was a finicky beast being cloudy and windy one minute, then sunny the next – but we made the most of it by walking about the vineyards a bit, then using the barrels Ekhidna Wines have on display.

One major reason why I love Ekhida Wines as a Mclaren Vale Wedding Venue is the direction their vine yards face – it always makes for a great drone sunset shot – despite there not being much of a sunset!

Wedding dog
Dog running through vines on wedding day
Bride and groom with their dog
Kiss amongst the Ekhidna WInery vines
Bridal couple walking together amongst the vineyard
Bridal couple through the vines
bride and groom leaning on wine barrels
Ekhidna Winery Mclaren Vale wine barrels photo
Bride and groom in the sunlit vines
Bride and groom kissing over the bouquet
bride and groom walking together in the vineyard 2
Holding one another in the Ekhidna winery Mclaren Vale vineyard
Ekhidna Winery Mclaren Vale vineyard
Drone shot of bride and groom in vineyard
Night time wedding photo

Wedding Reception

To finish up the day, Nikki and Trenton held a cocktail style reception in the Ekhidna Wines cellar door, and also had the SvenStudios photobooth set up! The night was a lovely casual affair, which really picked up once the dance floor opened and everyone cut loose for a bit 🙂 Was a lot of fun to be a part of!

Bridal couples names sign
Wedding favour cookies
Wedding cake topper with names
bridal party entry to reception
Bride and groom entry to Ekhidna Winery
Wedding cake set up at Ekhidna Winery Mclaren Vale
Personalised wedding serviettes
Maid of honour speech 2
best Man Speech 2
bride and groom listening to speeches
Cutting the wedding cake together
First dance 10
First dance 11

Thanks a bunch Nikki and Trenton for having me as your wedding photographer! Hope you enjoy your photos as much as I did taking them!

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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!