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PHOTOGRAPHY THE SECRET TO GREAT WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHS Wedding photographers (and recent newlyweds), Sophie and Dean Darwin give their insight into how to get the best photographs for your special day. So how do you get the best wedding photos? Is it a matter of finding the best photographer or spending as much money as possible? Here are our top five tips for getting the best wedding photos possible. Connection is everything Jersey has an awesome amount of photography talent and there are so many different styles and abilities around. In our opinion, we don’t think it comes down to style, experience or even ability (sure those things are important) but right at the top of your tick list should be who is the best match for you. It’s about finding someone who you will feel comfortable sharing the biggest day of your life with and who will be able to make you laugh and you’re totally relaxed with. In our opinion connection is everything. Trust If you find the right match for you, you'll trust their ability implicitly and know that they will capture your day perfectly. Photographers are creative and to get those special shots you’re hoping for means we need a little bit of headspace. If we're busy second-guessing ourselves or trying to follow instructions then we can't create to the best of our ability. Trust that we are giving you everything we have. And if we ask you to nip out for 10 minutes it's because the light is so amazing and you're going to get an epic shot. Sometimes even dessert can wait ten minutes for a glimpse of that golden light! Get organised Your wedding will be crazy and will go faster than you expected. You will be so busy chatting and enjoying your day to the absolute max, that you won’t remember to tell your photographer that you’re wearing your mum’s necklace or that you want a photo with your best pal. So make sure to tell your photographer everything you’re planning. Nothing is too insignificant. The more they know, the more detailed and sentimental your gallery will be. As well as letting them know the things you want them to capture, also make sure to let them know the things you don’t. If you have any awkward family situations (don’t worry, we all do) or things you want to be avoided, just keep them in the loop. Saves any awkward moments on the day. It’s your day, do it your way So not specifically photography related but a super important piece of advice in our eyes, don’t be a slave to the traditions that don’t bring you joy. If you don’t want to cut the cake or have a first dance then that’s OK, your gran will get over it! Equally, if you’d prefer to walk down the aisle together or sing The Beatles ‘All you Need is Love’ during the ceremony then DO IT! It’s your day, don’t be afraid to make your wedding unique to you. Forget Pinterest Don’t get us wrong, we LOVE a bit of Pinterest when it comes to inspiration but don’t get too hung up on wanting specific shots. Enjoy the moment and focus on each other and forget the camera. If you're relaxed and happy it will shine through in your images. Happiness can't be posed. Love can't be created. And these two things will provide you with the best wedding photos you could ever hope for. • To find more of Sophie and Dean’s wedding and family photography visit www.sophiedarwin.co.uk 46