I head up north of the city recently to meet little Odella and her Mum and Dad for a bit of a photo shoot in amongst the greenery of the Little Para Linear Park in Paralowie.
Little Odella’s parents had been given one of my gift certificates and had waited until Odella was big enough to sit on her own before organising a time to have their photoshoot done.
She wasn’t overly keen on smiling throughout our outing, but was otherwise very well behaved! And the glowing smiles from Mum and Dad certainly brightened up the photos regardless!
Being adventurous with your wedding photography can lead to some of the most unique and beautiful shots that people will stare at in awe. Rather than relying on the tried-and-true locations, you can take advantage of your surroundings and try something new—or at least different. Being adventurous with your wedding photography can mean that your photos will capture your true emotion and personality so much better than ‘playing safe’ and relying on tired cliches.
Your wedding will be a day filled with joy and happiness, and your photos should reflect that. But how can you go about making these decisions? What are you getting yourself into? And what does being adventurous even mean in the context of wedding photography? If you’re completely lost, don’t worry—we’re here to help.
Below I’ll go over what adventurous wedding photography can entail as both a photographer and the couples, as well as some tips and tricks to make sure you have the best experience possible. So, without any further ado, let’s get started!
Be Adventurous with your Wedding Photography for best results!
1) Think Outside the Box
If you’re looking to take your wedding photography up a notch, think outside of the box. Rather than cliche poses and plain backgrounds, experiment with various settings and find something interesting in your surroundings. You’ll want to be careful not to get too avant-garde or abstract; after all, you don’t want your photos to look like they were taken by M.C. Escher (though some may argue that would be pretty cool).
Keep it real and go with something authentic, but new and exciting at that. If you need inspiration, get out there are search for artistic landscape photographs from your wedding venue and surrounds that you like and simply put yourself in those scenes after discussing with your photographer.
Wedding photo on cliffs
2) A Necessary Conversation Between Bride and Groom
Expectations can often get in the way of enjoying yourself on your wedding day, and that’s completely normal. You’re expected to look a certain way, act a certain way, etc., and these pressures can take their toll over time. One good thing you can do is make sure to have a clear conversation about expectations with your partner before you head out for your big day.
Make sure you’re on board with each other’s ideas before anything else—this will ensure everyone gets what they want out of their photographs, which will ultimately result in more enjoyable pictures!
Out on pride rock
3) Spend Time in Your Location
While you’re getting used to being adventurous, try heading out of your comfort zone and spending some time in your potential wedding location before you take any photos. Doing so will make you feel more at ease during that special day—you’ll know where everything is and have a good idea of how to get around. You might even stumble upon a few photo opportunities along the way.
So don’t be afraid to head into uncharted territory—the worst thing that can happen is you won’t end up using it for anything. Be brave and find something new that works with your story!
Burbrook Kuitpo forest wedding photo
4) Keep An Open Mind to Suggestions
A big part of being adventurous with your wedding photography is keeping an open mind to suggestions from others as well as coming up with ideas on your own. If you don’t feel like you’re in a position to make decisions about how you want your wedding photography taken, that’s perfectly fine—your photographer has experience and can point you in a direction that will work best for both of you.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions or try something new! And just like before, if it turns out you don’t like it, it was all a learning experience. In fact, most photographers suggest trying many different looks during your session; what works for one shot might not work so well for another and vice versa.
Kuitpo Forest wedding
5) Stay Light on Your Feet
While you’re doing everything else on your list, don’t forget to have fun. Most photographers will tell you that good pictures come from having fun and feeling comfortable with one another (which is why it’s so important to have that conversation about expectations beforehand). So go ahead and dance a little, jump around if you want—it’s your wedding day, after all. And as long as you stay light on your feet, everything should work out just fine!
Remember, most of these suggestions are based on experience, but there are no strict rules when it comes to taking great photographs. Your best bet is going with what feels right for you and being excited about it; if nothing else, being adventurous will make your big day much more memorable.
The grooms men in rocks at Second Valley
6) Think About Storytelling Through Composition
When it comes to composition, there are so many different factors you have to think about. The first and most obvious one is framing—where do you want to place your subject within that photograph? Do you want them in front of a beautiful landscape or a famous landmark? What if they’re doing something interesting with their hands or body? How close should you be as a photographer when capturing an image?
In addition, consider depth of field (the way everything looks sharp and in focus or blurry), color schemes (everything from clothing to flowers), light exposure (for example, bright outdoor lighting versus more dim indoor lighting), shutter speed (how long your camera’s shutter will stay open), etc. All of these things can add up over time—so once again, be adventurous!
Beautiful light on the rocks
Have Fun, It’s Your Wedding Day!
And last but not least, don’t forget to have fun. Remember that whatever you decide to do, it doesn’t matter as long as you’re both happy with it. If your photographer suggests an idea that seems silly or uncomfortable at first—but gets you excited—give it a shot. Go ahead and plan something new and exciting—the best thing that can happen is you get great photos and memories from your special day; worst case scenario is nothing comes of it. Just try to be adventurous with your wedding photography and I promise it will all pay off!
Family photoshoots are supposed to be a lot of fun. It’s an activity that you get to enjoy with the people you care about the most in the world, all while preserving shared memories that you may cherish for the rest of your life.
You may be wondering what to bring, how long the shoot will take if you can bring your dog, how hair and makeup are done, and if venues can be switched!
The great thing about family photoshoots is that they can be a huge collaborative effort amongst you and your relatives. You must first let them know what you are planning for everybody and get them excited to brainstorm ideas with you. Let them contribute poses, themes, and costume ideas. And remember, this is part of all the fun!
Know that whatever works for your family will be your own unique style. The shoot is something you all should look up to, so frame the experience in a brilliant and positive light.
family sitting on a log
Plan Everything Accordingly
We can’t stress this enough: you have to plan ahead and accordingly to have a successful family photoshoot. No matter the size of your family, it’s important to set everything up from scheduling, wardrobe changes, grooming, food or catering, and so on.
Fix your clothing the day before your shoot, for example, and make sure all required things are dry cleaned/ironed. Set aside time the day before the shoot to have everyone conditioned and ready. Also, allow plenty of time if you’re getting your hair or cosmetics done. You don’t want to be rushed and flustered when you arrive.
Mt Compass Family photography
Get Some Beauty Rest
A big part of photoshoot preparations is setting the mood for the entire day. And to achieve a successful family photoshoot, everybody in your family must be well-rested, energetic, hydrated, and well-fed. Eight hours of sleep, lots of water, a big breakfast, and an uplifted mood sure can go a long way.
Family walking along the pond
Things to Pack
Healthy Snacks
No, we’re not just talking about chips and junk food. We’re talking about jelly beans, cheese cubes, light crackers, and dried food. Avoid foods that could stain or get stuck in your teeth like chocolate, candies, coloured beverages, and anything that consumes too much time to devour.
Food platter on display
Extra Clothes
It’s always a good idea to pack extra clothes and backup outfits for everybody, young and old. This tip is especially advantageous if, let’s say, you’re bringing a bunch of kids along. With almost any type of photoshoot, expect spills and stains to go wrong! It wouldn’t hurt to be a little bit overprepared.
I have a cake!
Fun Activities
Breakout sessions in between photoshoot layouts are a must. This is a way to inject fun as the day progresses. This is not really a requirement, but it can relax your whole team and loosen up your family members
In addition, fun activities like blowing bubbles, and playing with toys and balls can be added to your themed shoot.
Family photo in Pine Reserve
The Furry Friend
If you bring your dog, please consider bringing a dedicated walker to look after it throughout the shoot. This way, you can keep your dog secure and comfortable while not interfering with the shot. Also, before bringing your dog to the shoot, evaluate her disposition. How will it be able to pose for photos if it is typically wild and rowdy? Finally, provide dog treats and toys for the dog so that he would comply.
bride groom and dog
Outdoor Items
Best place to hold a natural family photography session is to hold it outside – rather than in a studio. For example, heading to the beach? bring beach towels, sunscreen, coolers, umbrellas, and more! Treat it the way you would for any beach trip. How about a forest? maybe bring a picnic setup, some games? frisbee?
Family sitting together on rock
Grooming Tools for Hair and Makeup
Perhaps grooming for hair and makeup aren’t requirements either, but it wouldn’t hurt to bring your own tools. This way, you can touch up in between layouts and keep it all hygienic as well. But beyond hair and makeup, you may also want to bring a sewing kit for emergencies. And if you’re feeling quite extravagant, feel free to hire your family’s own glam team!
Running in front of the family
Reminders During the Shoot
Make the Most Out of It
We’ll say it again: A family photoshoot is a perfect excuse to bond with your loved ones. So, use this time wisely. This is a time to learn new things through new experiences, together.
Family looking through the bushes
Grab a Solo Portrait for Everyone
Show off everybody’s beauty. One by one, allow every member of your family to have their own time to shine. Let them show off their hobbies, their talents, and their unique styles.
Portrait
Give Room for Goofy Shots
You can culminate the shoot by taking a goofy group family pic which you can blow up and hang on your wall! This is a way for you to truly cherish your close family ties, unbreakable bonds, and sense of humour! There are no wrong answers when it comes to taking goofy family portraits.
Family portrait under gum trees
Keep Your Photographer Team in the Loop
The Editing Process
As with any photoshoot, the images are thoroughly retouched. For this process, you have to let your photographer and their assistant know what you’d like the outcome of the pictures to be.
If you feel conscious about something, raise it. They can keep everything natural, with a bit of tweaking when it comes to reducing wrinkles, toning down puffiness around the face, lightening the eye bags, etc.
Let us know if you’re planning something special too – perhaps an engagement? We are good at keeping secrets, and if we know about it beforehand we can be sure to look out for the cues!
Santorini Couple Shoot
Thirteen tips may sound like a large amount of advice for a successful family photoshoot, but one can never be too sure about family activities and gatherings! Being prepared and knowing what to expect can save you and your family members a lot of stress, arguments, and unnecessary pressure. That said, make sure you plan ahead, prepare, and enjoy every second. Take this chance to capture special shared moments while you still can!
It was a gloriously sunny day for Susie and Ricky as they hosted their Civic park wedding ceremony up on the hill above the maid grassy area nearby the Sferas Convention Center. They had originally planned to hold their reception only to put that on hold for later in the year until the COVID threat had quietened a bit.
Despite their little postponement of their reception, this happy couple still made the most of their shorter day with gusto!
Preparation
Ricky and his best man was prepared at the family home nearby. I arrived as they were playing a few last video games – which is always a great start, and then we moved on to more usual things like cleaning mirrors while trying to tie ties 🙂
Video games playing groom
Groom getting help with his tie
Groom and groomsman squeezing into mirror
Bestman sorting out tie
Grinning groom
Groom getting lapel straightened
Simpsons cufflinks
Putting flower on lapel
Putting flower on lapel on best man
Groom leaning on doorframe
Susie and her bridal party were prepared at one of the suites at the Sfera’s Convention center in which they had a grand view over where their Civic Park wedding ceremony was being set up overlooking the little creek area at the center of the entire park.
I arrived just as the girl’s makeup was almost done, which is great as then I’m able to make the use of the time taking phtos of things like dresses and shoes, etc.
Susie spent some time in during her preparation on two special moments – the first being a first look with the handsome man who walked her down the aisle, and the other with her flower girl – to which Susie gifted a fluffy white cat toy, which the little girl wasn’;t overly keen on at first but came around to it 🙂
Engagement ring in purple flower
Makeup on bride
Sister hugs
Bride playing with veil
Bride sitting looking at wedding dress
Bridesmaids getting tangled in veil
Bridesmaids stretching out train
Smiling bride looking at camera
Bride standing in window light
Bride smiling looking up
Bride twisting back at bridesmaids
Bridesmaids reacting to engagement ring
Bride showing off train
Groom leaning on doorframe
Civic Park Wedding Ceremony
Susie and Ricky’s Civic Park wedding ceremony took place under the shade of the gum trees that line the dry creek area that adorns the top of the path way that wiggles it’s way through the center of the park – while lined with grass. The path connect’s the Tea Tree Plaza shopping center and Sferas.
Being set up here was wonderful as Susie and Ricky’s guests were therefore protected by the harsh sun, as opposed to the poor other wedding ceremony that took place on the main grass area just after theirs.
Their ceremony itself was a lovely simple affair, with private in jokes based on a variety of popculture references which made a different small portion of their congregation chuckle at different times throughout.
Checking the time together
Groom waiting at Civic Park wedding
Bride arriving looking at Dad
Grooms first look at bride
Civic Park wedding ceremony
Grinning bride during ceremony
Groom looking at his bride
Bride and groom looking back at congregation
Exchanging wedding bands at Civic Park wedding
Bride smiling at her groom at wedding
First kiss at Civic Park wedding
Bridal exit at Civic Park wedding
Glamour Photos
After coaxing everyone out on the grassy hill for a group photo using the drone – so as to socially distance – We made use of the rest of Civic park for a few glamour photos before heading across the road to the Solandra Wetlands for a few more.
As the sun was super bright, my main goal throughout was simply to use as much shade as possible to bring some sun flares coming through and making the scene super pretty. It was however fairly early in the day – so this was a little tricky, but the beautiful surrounds of the foliage available still made for some lovely shots.
Kisses under a tree at Civic park wedding
Groom kissing his bride’s head under a tree
Flying veil on bride
bridesmaid pointing
Smiles all round as headbutt
Smiling bride with groom and jacket
Bridal party reacting to kiss
Bride and groom under sun lit tree
Bride leading groom on merry jape
Bride and groom in long grass
Bride and groom in weeping willow
Bride and groom in weeping willow foliage
Thanks so much to Susie and Ricky for having me as your wedding photographer! I’m so sorry that wouldnt be able to cover your reception on your new date! But I hope you enjoy the photos taken on your wedding day!
Emma and Stephen wanted to show off their love for one another with a Belair Train Station Engagement Shoot before their big day at Mt Barker’s Auchendarroch House.
With Stephen travelling half away across the world from the US to see Emma after several long years apart due to the dastardly effects of the COVID pandemic, they were finally able to be together so they wanted to celebrate as soon as possible!
Emma was in two minds throughout the day about whether or not to head out that night for their engagement shoot due to the weather in the morning being less than spectacular. Thankfully the weather cleared up during the day and we all head out for what turned out to be a beautiful evening.
Belair Train Station Engagement Shoot
We began Emma and Stephen’s Belair Train Station Engagement shoot in amongst the station’s historic platform and waiting shelter where we made use of the beautiful ‘Belair’ writing on the wooden structure and the delightful parallel lines leading all over the place makeing for some lovely scenes.
As Emma had explained before heading out, she had not seen Stephen for several years prior to their engagement shoot, so these two were full of lovey-dovey hugs and kisses all evening, which made my job that much easier!
Smiles in amongst the train station
Walking in front of the Belair Train Station
Belair Train station engagement shoot
Belair Train station engagement photo
Hugs on the Belair Train station platform
As we set out during golden hour, we wanted to make the most of the golden hues of the sun streaming in through the majestic gum trees that make up the Belair National Park. We went for a little walk just behind the Belair Train Station to make use of this amazing setting!
Hugs under the sunlight
In amongst the belair national park gums
Look over there
Belair National Park engagement photo
Two standing together inbetween gum trees
Emma standing out front
Couple standing together under gum tree walkway
Dancing under the gum trees
Engagement shoot in Belair
Leaning on his shoulder
Sitting on fallen tree
Engagement ring with purple gemstone
Dancing in between the gums
Walking toegther in the Belair national park
Just as we were wrapping up, and having a chat with a group of joggers who had just finished their excersises, a freight train thundered past the Belair Train Station platform, so we quickly jumped in front of it for a bit of a photo! The train operator obviously had a bit of a ssense of humour and made sure to be seen throughout. 🙂
Belair Train Station engagement shoot with train
Belair Train Station engagement shoot kiss
Looking forward to being your wedding photographer in March Emma and Stephen! Hopefully these photos will tide you over until then!