Once you have chosen your wedding photographer, it is essential that you meet with them in person at least once, and maintain communication over the months leading up to the wedding. You should be able to contact your photographer as often as required.
Set up your mood.
You guys will be married, so feel the happiness, feels like you are the lucky couple in the world and yes it’s true indeed, forget about other things, forget your busy jobs, problems or anything that can ruin your mood. If you hear or anything bad happen before the day, leave and forget that. Release your stress, put big smile on your face.
Theme.
Many weddings have a theme, whether it be a colour theme or something a little more elaborate (e.g. a Broadway theme). Make sure you explain the theme to your photographer and why you have chosen it (what is its significance).
Style.
Show your photographer examples of images that you love. You may have found these on the internet or in wedding magazines, but they will give your photographer a good idea of the style you would like to go for with the wedding photography.
Venues.
Is there a particular reason you have chosen the venues/locations you have? Do they hold some special significance to you? If so, explain the significance and the emotions associated with it to your photographer.
Shot list.
Make a list of all the “must have” shots and give to your photographer. For group shots, remember that your photographer will not know most of the people at the wedding, so arrange for a family member to help the photographer by rounding up the relevant people at the appropriate time during the wedding day.
Time allocated for photography.
Make sure that as a couple, you have discussed and agreed to a certain amount of time for photographs. You need to let your photographer know the amount of time you have agreed upon so that they know exactly how much time they have to create the images.
Your own photography ideas.
If you have specific ideas for shots you would like to have, let your photographer know!
Your interests.
Discuss your own individual interests with your photographer. e.g. Do you play in a band? Is that where you met your partner? The photographer may be able to incorporate elements of this into your wedding photography.
Another opportunity for communication is to invite your wedding photographer to your wedding rehearsal. This will allow the photographer to meet the wedding party and officiant, familiarise themselves with the venue(s) and pass along important information to others who will be involved in the photos on the day.
