LulightGetting ready for my first wedding photoshoot
Tomorrow I am shooting my first wedding and I can’t help but feel super excited and nervous at the same time. I have never shot or assisted a wedding as a photographer, but I do know how to shoot and sometimes the best things come out when you start before you are ready, otherwise the right moment never comes.
When Kiki asked me if I could do her wedding I couldn’t help but say “yes”. Matt and Kiki are born and raised SoCal sweethearts. They met on, they play on, they got engaged on and tomorrow will be wed on the beach.
I feel truly honored to join them not only as a guest but as the person in charge to make their day last forever with images. I never felt nervous before a photoshoot but this one is different because a wedding is such an important moment in someone’s life, and you don’t want to blow it. You want to make images that make them feel gorgeous and fun.
It is sunny and beautiful outside today and it is also the longest day of the year but I am leaving the outdoors for later to get everything ready for tomorrow. How am I getting ready?
1- Getting all the gear ready.
2- Getting my outfit ready ( I chose a long skirt because I know I will need some flexibility).
3- Making a list of the main shots that I can’t miss.
4- Getting some last minute google advice and inspiration! (I started this one a month ago but I love watching wedding pictures now)
I already scouted the location and set up the time for the Bridal Party, family pictures and bride and Groom pictures (these photos are going to be at sunset on the beach!) . I decided to do a mix between setup pictures and documentary pictures. I love posed photographs as much as I love fresh moment snaps. I feel it is good to balance the two of them that way you can get more editorial like pictures and also capture the true spirit and feeling of the venue.
The setup is all outdoors: Ceremony on the beach and reception at a park next to the beach. The only indoor pictures are the ones of the bride and bridesmaids getting ready and well as the groom and his best men. I think I have it all under control and Alex will be there by my side making things happen.
I decided to make a top 5 of the photographers I saw for inspiration:
Gemma and Phillipa from Cotton Candy
Caroline Tran
Wish me luck for tomorrow!
Mucho Amor,
Lu.
