THE DETAILS
FIRST LOOK
“ We absolutely recommend a first look at a wedding ! It allows for a more relaxed timeline , less stress , being able to spend more time with your soon-to-be spouse and enjoying cocktail hour with your guests .”
— Matt Celeste , Blueflash Photography , blueflashphotography . com
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Written by Sara Zarrella Edited by Edelinda Baptista
Local photographer Sara Zarrella shares tips to make your pictures come out as everything you want them to be .
1 . Lighting Is Everything You may see other photos that you love , but your day is going to affect your lighting . The time of day and location of your wedding will affect the outcome of your images . California lighting is different from New England , so use caution when looking for inspo ! Pinterest is a great resource , but understand that it ’ s someone else ' s day , location , lighting , timeline and vibe . Pull inspiration but have realistic expectations .
TWO FOR ONE
“ Booking a wedding photographer and DJ team offers several benefits . A cohesive team can streamline communication , ensuring seamless coordination between photo sessions and music choices . They may also offer package deals , potentially saving you money . Additionally , a well-coordinated photographer and DJ can enhance the overall atmosphere , capturing precious moments and setting the right mood with music .”
— Tom and Kristen Conte , Conte Sound Productions , contesound . com
AT NIGHT
“ We love to take our couples back outside after dark and do some portraits with interesting lighting . We try to get romantic and cinematic shots that you can ' t get otherwise . For daytime photos you can add some interest with smoke grenades for a really awesome effect !”
— Matt Celeste , Blueflash Photography , blueflashphotography . com
2 . Time Really Does Fly Think about doing a first look — meeting each other privately during a designated time before the ceremony . It can take a lot of pressure off and allows for some special moments to capture before the exciting chaos of the rest of the day !
• Trust your photographer and allow them to do their thing .
• Before the big day , share your ideas and inspiration with your photographer .
• Don ’ t be afraid to overcommunicate : We ' re here to answer any and all questions ahead of time so that we can be on the same page when you say “ I do .”
• Plan ahead and add extra time for traffic and unforeseen delays .
• We highly recommend having an engagement session . Not only will you have amazing images for your save-the-date , wedding website and your engagement announcement , but additionally you ' ll get more comfortable in front of the camera and build a rapport with your photographer .
3 . Deadlines and Expectations
• Read through your photographer ' s agreement and ask any questions you may have before signing .
• Ask about turnaround time . It takes considerable time to edit and produce final images , especially during the busiest time ( s ) of the year . Honor the time allotted . You can rest assured your photographer is working efficiently to get your images to you in the agreed-upon time — or sooner !
• Be clear about your wants and needs . If you want formal photos with family , extended family , college friends or a group shot with all the guests , it can be arranged , but let your photographer know so they can plan accordingly .
4 . Don ' t Worry , We Got This Downpour ? Nor ' easter ? Heat wave ? Sometimes your wedding day isn ' t exactly what you pictured . Photographers have seen it all and know how to get compelling images no matter the circumstances . Leave the challenges to us .
5 . Reviews and Referrals Photographers pour their heart and soul into their work . The best and most meaningful compliment you can give your photographer is a positive review and / or a referral . We are most grateful you chose us to capture this special time of your life . sarazarrellaphotography . com
PHOTOGRAPHY : ( TOP ) CAITLIN KERSHAW PHOTOGRAPHY ; ( BOTTOM ) BLUEFLASH PHOTOGRAPHY ; ( SIDEBAR ) COURTESY OF SARA ZARRELLA PHOTOGRAPHY .
30 | ENGAGED IN SOUTHERN NEW ENGLAND 2024