A WEDDING DAY GUIDE
FROM YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER
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Wedding day prep: Your guide to a smooth celebration
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BEFORE CEREMONY Have DETAILS READY
When spending time with you before the ceremony, if you'd like details documented, it would be helpful to get them together ahead of time.
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Here are a list of items to consider putting aside.
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INVITATION
Envelopes, return card, whatever you have
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RINGS
His and both of yours
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JEWELRY & SHOES
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ANYTHING SENTIMENTAL
i.e. handkerchief, grandma's pearls, papa's pocket knife, etc.
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EXTRA DECOR
Any extra florals/ribbon/fabric that you have
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Getting ready TIME
Starting documentation when the day begins gets everyone comfortable with my presence and allows me to document moments happening in a thoughtful way.
I like to visit both parties' getting ready spaces when possible.
For brides, I like to arrive at least around the time makeup is just beginning!
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Usually, the bridesmaids and other special people get dressed first. After they are dressed, lastly the bride can put her dress on. This order of things can sometimes give us more opportunities before and after everyone's dressed so we can get some awesome documentation.
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Family photos
Right after your marriage ceremony, couples may spend some time with family and friends for hugs and congrats!
I like to leave a 10 minute cushion right after the ceremony.
Then, usually, we do move directly into your family formal photos. I typically find that 30-40 minutes is the perfect amount of time.
You can write down a list of family combinations you want to be photographed as references if you'd like.
Try to use peoples' entire name and not just "aunt" or "cousin" when writing your list. This way, anyone around can more easily help call out your loved ones names when it's their turn.
PORTRAITS
I love as much time as you can give me for portraits with the wedding couple! It's a fun and special part of the day - the ceremony is behind you and you are finally married!
I would love an hour of time, if circumstances allow, but I can craft wonderful images with 15 minutes time!
We will focus on your relationship, not a lengthy photographer led fashion shoot. There will be some leading and posing, yes, but mostly I want to photograph you honestly, sweetly, joyfully, creatively, telling the story of where you are, this moment, and this day.
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I approach the day honoring your wishes. There is no right or wrong! No worries! I'll help maximize the flow of portrait time throughout the day however it goes!
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GET IN TOUCH
If you have any questions or thoughts that come up, feel free to send me an email at mariapisanophotography@gmail.com or we can schedule a phone call as well.
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I will touch base with you again during the week prior to your session to check in.
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WHAT DO I DO WITH MY HANDS
DURING PORTRAIT TIME:
I love for your hands to be on your significant other, in an embrace, giving a hug, stroking hair, holding hands, etc.
If you ever feel that awkward "I-don't-know-what-to-do-with-my-hands" feeling I haven't addressed yet, snuggling of some kind always wins!
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Throughout the photos, I'll often help direct or guide you in certain ways.
Portrait time can be a welcomed moment to connect with one another.
During photos, I hope you have fun and feel amazing! Don't worry if you are a little nervous, that's normal. Take some deep breaths, bask in each other's company - you will both look gorgeous on your special day!
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WEDDING SCHEDULE
When we've talked a bit more, I can help write a tentative schedule pertaining to what will generally be happening while I'm there.
Preparing a photographer timeline guide for your busy day will only help make things simpler to track and make it easier to go with the flow!
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This schedule is usually finalized a couple weeks to a month before the wedding.
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These helpful wedding day timeline articles might be useful when you look at the nuances and pieces of your wedding day:
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WHAT HAPPENS AFTER THE wedding
Afterward, I'll safely upload your images into my system to several back up locations, then take time to curate a wonderful gallery to begin professionally enhancing.
Your images will be available in an online gallery within 12 weeks after your wedding.
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At that time, I will send an email with your gallery link, directions to download, save, and print. The gallery will be live for about one year. A cloud link will also be sent the following year.
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If you've chosen to order a photo album, I'll put together a thoughtful, story-telling design! The process usually takes about 12 weeks for designing, possible revisions, and then delivery.
GRATITUDE
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I hope you find plenty of time in your busy day to ENJOY your wedding day, the details, your partner, family, and guests. Relax and soak it in. It goes by fast.
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How amazing that everyone has come together to celebrate your love and commitment! It's going to be a wonderful day!
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I'm available before + after your big day to chat.
Please feel free to email, or we can schedule a phone call.
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Thank you so much! I look forward to working with you to capture your beautiful wedding day!
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Thank you very much!
Please feel free to reach out anytime. I will be back in touch with you a few weeks before your wedding day!
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email: mariarosaphoto@gmail.com