Wedding portraits can be a lot of fun, but sometimes the weather or time restraints can make the wedding portraits a bit stressful. No photographer wants to stress out the bride and groom, so we do our best to get what we need in the time we have. There are a few things you can do to prep for a smooth portrait session during your day though.
1. Bring a coordinator. Someone who is there just to keep everything on schedule. It’s also nice to have someone there to hold bags, props, or cellphones. Many times the members of the wedding party will set objects down right in the middle of a shot we’re composing, and then we’re frequently having to move things out of the way. That wastes time. If someone is there to make sure everything is out of the way, the session is quicker and smoother. If you are not planning on having a coordinator or family member help with this part, I suggest letting your photographer know so they can prepare with either their second shooter or bring along an assistant.

2. Designate someone to be in charge of flowers (bouquets), props, and other accessories so when they’re needed for pictures you don’t have to waste time looking for those things. The coordinator or a bridesmaid can be a good person for this. Most importantly, don’t forget the flowers. It happens frequently, so make sure that’s the number one priority on your list of props and accessories. Here’s a few more things I suggest bringing: an umbrella (if the weather is iffy), high heelers (to protect your heels in the grass), small towels (guys can get a bit sweaty in those hot months), “Thank You” signs or banners, and any extra props that are desired for the portraits.

3. Make sure the groomsmen know they need their boutonnieres on before the portraits start. I recommend putting it in the schedule (right before the revealing/first look) because it’s frequently forgotten. It wastes a lot of time during the portraits, so make sure those guys are ready before they start. Also, plan to have someone help the guys affix their boutonnieres, whether it’s the coordinator, the bridesmaids, or the groom’s mother and aunts.  When family members put boutonnieres on the groom and groomsmen it can make for endearing pictures.

4. Last ,and probably the most important, please talk to your photographers about your expectations. If there is anything you want captured, whether it’s a portrait idea or a shot with only a certain person, it’s important they know beforehand. It’s a very busy day and things are forgotten, so let your photographers know beforehand so they can make a list of the portraits that are the most important to you.

If you have any suggestions, put them in the comments! We’d love to know what worked for you!