This post is for the brides who are passionate about their photography. It’s for those of you who want to feel something when you look back at your photos…not just see what you wore. It’s for those of you who truly embrace the experience of working with a great photographer.  I wholeheartedly understand where you’re coming from because, just a few months ago, I was one of those brides. :) From my combined bride + photographer experience, I found one simple thing that made the defining difference between getting pretty pictures and getting pure, honest images filled with beauty, emotion, and joy:

Communication.

That’s the big secret. :) My first priority with brides is to build a welcoming relationship and encourage open communication. Authentic images hinge on it. I take it on as my responsibility to encourage communication by communicating. A simple phone call to introduce myself, a quick eMail to check in, a double date invitation to dinner, an online questionnaire–a little goes a long way.

Good communication isn’t too hard, but it is a two way street. I encourage my clients to join me in the creative process in three ways:

1. Create a Pinterest board of photos you love. Pin images that give me a feel for your style, and what kind of images you’re hoping to get from your wedding and sessions. Make little notes in the caption section of each pin, like, “Love the pose” or  ”Love the open field setting” or “Love this candid moment” etc. Sharing this pinboard with me starts a dialogue between us, and from there I can chat with you more about how to achieve the look you want and what to expect from your images.

2. Invite me into your social network–It’s one of the easiest ways for us to get to know each other. If you see something on my blog that resounds with you, let me know via a quick comment. If you have a personal blog, share it with me so I can keep up with you. Twitter and Facebook make it super easy for us to get to know each other and start conversations based on retweets, comments, and likes.

3. Schedule an engagement session, if at all possible. An engagement session is the BEST way to join in on the creative process because we’ll get to collaborate on ideas for the shoot. You’ll get a feel for my approach and we’ll have a lot of fun. :) A session also gives you a chance to experience working with me before your wedding day. More than anything, it helps you feel comfortable in front of the camera, and it gives me the opportunity to learn your best features so I can create the best images of you.

I hope this inspires you a little!

xo

Caroline

Posted in For Brides, For Photographers