5 common worries I hear as a wedding photographer (and how I can help)
Planning a wedding comes with a few common worries! Here are 5 phrases I hear all the time as a wedding photographer—and how to navigate them with ease.
Planning a wedding comes with a lot of excitement, but also plenty of questions and concerns. If you’re worried about something, I can almost guarantee you’re not the first! Over the years, I’ve heard the same phrases come up time and time again, and I’m here to help you navigate them. Whether it’s feeling awkward in front of the camera or wondering what to do if the weather doesn’t cooperate, I’ve got the experience and tips to make sure you feel completely at ease.
1. “We’re awkward in front of the camera.”
This is probably one of the most common things I hear, and I totally get it! It’s normal to feel a little self-conscious when someone is pointing a camera at you, especially on such a big day. But here’s the thing—awkwardness is more about how you feel in the moment, not how you actually look. My goal is to create a relaxed environment for you, where you can feel comfortable and just enjoy the experience.
I’ll guide you through each step with prompts that encourage connection and movement, so you’re not just standing still and smiling awkwardly. We’ll do some fun and lighthearted things to help you feel natural together—whether it’s walking, laughing, or simply enjoying the moment. Most of my couples are surprised at how much fun they end up having in front of the camera, and how relaxed they feel by the end of it!
2. “We’re not sure how much time we need for ______.”
Wedding days can feel like a whirlwind, and figuring out how long each part of the day will take can be tough, especially if you’ve never planned a wedding before. From getting ready to your first look, family portraits, and golden hour photos, there are so many details to consider. I always tell my couples that this is where working with an experienced photographer can be a game-changer!
I’ll sit down with you in advance and help create a personalized timeline that fits your day perfectly. We’ll work through the details so everything feels balanced—giving you plenty of time for those must-have moments while also allowing for some downtime to breathe. This way, we’re never rushing through photos or missing out on key moments because of poor planning.
3. “We’re not sure whether or not to do a first look.”
The decision of whether or not to have a first look is a big one, and I know it can be hard to decide. There are clear pros and cons to both options, and it all comes down to what feels right for you as a couple. A first look before the ceremony offers you a private moment to share with each other, free from the eyes of your guests. It also gives you more time for portraits while your hair and makeup are still fresh, so you can relax and enjoy the day without feeling rushed.
On the other hand, the classic first look down the aisle is undeniably emotional and timeless. It’s one of the most special moments of your entire wedding day. The key consideration here is that if you decide to wait until the ceremony, there will likely be less time for portraits after the ceremony, which can make that part of the day feel a little more hurried. Either way, I’m happy to help guide you through the decision and make sure it fits into the overall flow of your day.
4. “We don't want the focus to be on photos—we want a photographer that takes a more candid approach to our day so we don't have to be smiling and posing all day long.”
I totally understand where you're coming from! You want to enjoy your wedding day, not feel like you're constantly being told to smile and pose. My approach to wedding photography is all about documenting the real moments—the laughter, the quiet glances, the candid interactions—so you can look back and feel the emotion of the day rather than just seeing a series of posed photos.
That said, I also believe in capturing the important, more structured moments, like family portraits and some couple shots. But these won’t feel stiff or forced; instead, I’ll direct you in a way that feels natural and relaxed. You can expect most of your gallery to be full of real, unscripted moments that tell the story of your day, with just enough guidance to make sure we get those important shots you’ll cherish forever.
5. “What if we get bad weather?”
Weather can be one of the most unpredictable parts of your wedding day, and it’s totally understandable to feel nervous if rain, snow, or clouds are in the forecast. But here’s the thing: bad weather doesn’t necessarily mean bad photos. In fact, some of my most stunning wedding galleries have come from overcast days, where the soft, diffused light is perfect for creating dreamy, flattering portraits.
If rain does decide to make an appearance, I’m always prepared with clear umbrellas, and I have backup location ideas that can still make for amazing photos. Plus, I’ll work with you to find creative solutions—whether that’s a cozy indoor spot or getting some fun shots with the weather as part of the story. My approach is all about embracing the unexpected and making the most of every situation.
Turning worries into wonderful memories
At the end of the day, your wedding is about you, your love story, and the people who matter most. Whatever happens—whether it’s feeling awkward in front of the camera, making tough decisions about timing, or dealing with unexpected weather—my job is to capture every moment as authentically and beautifully as possible. You’ll be surprised how easy it is to let go of any worries and simply enjoy the day as it unfolds!
Ready to capture your wedding day in Southern Ontario?
If you're looking for a wedding photographer who focuses on real moments, a relaxed experience, and a natural, candid approach, I’d love to chat with you about how we can make your day unforgettable. Reach out to me today to learn more about my wedding photography packages and how I can help tell the story of your love!