From The Straits Times    |
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Image: Witthaya Prasongsin/123rf.com

#1 DYODD

You’ve checked out at least ten stores for your wedding dress and more venues than you can count. What about your wedding photographer? After all, when all’s said and done, all that’s left are your memories, and your wedding photos. Getting referrals from friends, and reading reviews on forums (it’s not just about their portfolio online, but their service and attitude, too!) are a great way to start sussing out the right wedding snapper. 

 

#2 Be on the same page

Putting together a reference or Pinterest board will give your photographer a sense of the emotion and mood you’re looking to convey. Also look through their portfolio to see if their style meshes with what you’re gunning for. Some photographers are whizzes with studio lighting, some capture candid moments beautifully, and others have a flair for dramatic, moody shots. 

See also: WHAT TO KNOW WHEN CHOOSING YOUR WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER

 

#3 You’ve got chemistry

Once you’ve whittled your list to a select few, it’s always a good idea to set up a meeting with the different studios. One important tip: Pick the person you’re most comfortable and can communicate well with. If they’re pushy, disinterested or don’t seem to take your concerns into consideration, it’s a sign you should work with someone else.

 

#4 Communicate your good angles and flaws

Most, if not all, of us have a side that looks better in photos. Or say your right jawline looks sharper, or you love your eyes – don’t forget to highlight these to your photographer so they can best emphasise it. And if you’re worrying about how your arms look like in pictures, don’t forget to let your photographer know too. 

See also: WITH EVERY KISS: 9 UTTERLY ROMANTIC WEDDING PORTRAIT POSES TO STEAL

 

#5 Practice, practice, practice!

via GIPHY

Just like the no-makeup makeup look does in fact require quite a bit of cosmetics, seemingly effortless photos can take some practice. Check out your favourite celebrities’ red carpet photos or Instagrammers (and even our editorial spreads!) for poses and expressions you can cop! Practicing and knowing various poses will definitely make your photographer’s job a little easier when directing you, too.

Tip: Keeping your arms away form your body will create the illusion of slimmer arms, and slightly pushing your chin out will also help create a more defined jawline and longer neck. Lastly, keep yourself relaxed and joyful on the day of the shoot!

 

For a formal venue, a ballgown and a tux would look right in place. For a more casual, playful mood, try a short flirty dress. Your groom can skip the tux for a more relaxed ensemble. 

#6 Up your style game

Once you’ve settled on the mood, concept and venue, check out bridal magazines and Pinterest for bridal looks that would suit the the feel of your shoot. Shooting at the beach? Try a flowing lightweight gown with airy layers that can flutter in the breeze, and a loose romantic hairdo. If your venue has stately decor and grand pillars, a glamorous or vintage look would be well-suited. 

See also: 13 PLAYFUL AND FUN WEDDING DRESSES AND SUITS FOR WHIMSICAL CELEBRATIONS

Got any wedding-related questions? We’re happy to help! Please drop us an e-mail atsthio@sph.com.sg should you wish to submit your queries. Please note that your queries and our responses may be featured in the magazine, or on the website.