Want to know how weddings end up on all of the big blogs and printed publications? We turned to photographer Liz Banfield whose work has been published everywhere from Martha Stewart Weddings to blogs like Southern Weddings and Style Me Pretty for some tips you can keep in mind on your wedding day and who knows, you may see yourself in the wedding blogosphere!
What are some of the “key” details you like to photograph that help tell the entire story?
Everything that personalizes a wedding, from the invitations to the welcome gifts, helps me tell the story of that particular event. I like it when a client tells me what details to expect in writing prior to the wedding day. That way, I can simply check off a list to make sure nothing is forgotten. Also, it’s extremely helpful if perfect samples are set aside for me to photograph. The invitation is the heart and soul of any wedding design. I usually request that two copies be saved for me with one being calligraphed in the name of the bride or someone in the family. And of course, do not actually send it through the mail but save it in a stiff envelope, along with a perfect sample of the program and any other printed or personalized items. I also like knowing what the color scheme will be prior to the wedding day so that I can bring swaths of fabric for backgrounds or small props like a charming ring box to help style the details. Definitely have a conversation with your photographer about all of these things no later than a week before your wedding so that he or she can be prepared.
As far as bridal beauty, what advice can you give that makes the biggest difference in photos?
Be yourself and don’t be spontaneous about your beauty plan on the wedding day! I strongly recommend trial run for hair and makeup. If possible take pictures of the trial and even arrange to slip into your gown and veil. It’s a great idea to book a bridal portrait just so you can test out the whole look without the pressure of the wedding day. I’d say 90% of my brides who do a bridal portrait prior to the wedding make a tweak to their look based on how all the elements come together. A veil can also really change the look of your face, depending on where it’s positioned on your head. It can also wreak havoc on your hair-style, usually pulling it all down, so it’s a good idea to make sure your stylist is experienced with construction or at least can swing back after you take the veil out to do a touch up. Also, be yourself when it comes to makeup. Again, the trial will help you know for example if false eyelashes work for you (on some people they are fabulous but on me, ridiculous). Lastly, proceed with caution when it comes to spray tans. If you think you want to do it, be sure to test it out several times before the wedding to get the amount just right.
The timeline for a wedding day- what is your ideal time couples should allow for the “personal” photos after the ceremony?
I like to have at least 30 minutes with a bride and groom alone for a portrait session. It’s important not to rush it. Your photographer needs time to do their best work.
How do you feel about couples seeing each other before the ceremony – the “first look” trend we’ve been seeing for a while?
I highly recommend a “first look.” In fact, most of my couples actually do a first look so that after the ceremony they can move seamlessly into the party. I think it allows a more relaxed portrait session and has a positive impact on the photos. Plus, the couple actually gets to spend more time together on the wedding day which flies by so fast. Work with your photographer to choose a special and private space to have your first look.
Any back pocket tricks or tips that brides can keep in mind to help their wedding stand out and get noticed for possible submittal to a blog or publication?
Remember that wedding industry professionals see the same things over and over again. As much as you can be “out of the box” with your ideas, the better chance that your wedding will get editorial attention. I love the trend of coordinated but not-matching bridesmaids dresses, for instance. Or, interesting wedding day shoes is a great way to add personal flair. Ultimately, anything you can do to tell a story of who you are as a couple and where you chose to be married will be appealing to an editor. Ideas such as food that speaks to your heritage (your Italian grandmother’s gnocchi recipe!) or your unique habits as a couple (we don’t like cake, so here’s our wedding pie!) or your unusual wedding location (s’more kits served for your wedding at a camp). When it comes to publishing, I’ve seen humble little weddings with charming, thoughtful details beat out lavish affairs for editorial coverage. Lastly, keep in mind that what’s “now” is already “over” for a magazine editor so being original with your ideas is the best way to get published.
