http://aaronstadt.com/Timeline.pdf
Those of you who are having your wedding on our favorite sternwheeler in portland might find this useful.
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Timeline of a 'Typical' Wedding Day, . . .
This link will take yo to a pdf file containing a visual diagram of a 'typical' wedding day, if any wedding can be called 'typical', . . . It explores variables and options, none of which are intended to be definitive in their layouts or descriptions. This diagram is intended to be a help for those that are new to this, . . . or for those who have done it before and wondered afterwards why it had to be so damn chaotic.
http://aaronstadt.com/Timeline.pdf
http://aaronstadt.com/Timeline.pdf
Making a Formals List
One of the 'traditional' times of the day as far as photography is concerned is where the family is gathered in varying combinations for formal portraiture.
Some people actually 'look forward' to this time and it is often seen as a unique opportunity, the extended family is finally together and it must be documented. Others see this time as a necessary burden to be undertaken. Either way there is no reason not to have a little fun with it.
The most efficient an time-economical way to accomplish this is by creating a 'Formals List'.
This is a 'name specific' list of everyone that you would like in your 'Formal' family group shots. There is no limit to the number of individuals that you can include on this list. The bridal-party shots do not need to be listed.
Start with the shots that are the most important to you. If time runs short some of the less important shots can be taken at the reception.
If possible start with the largest groups, eliminating individuals from the group with each shot rather than adding to the group. For example; the list could include the Bride and Groom, both sets of parents, siblings and grandparents. The following shot is sans the grandparents, the next without siblings, etc.
If your shot list includes individuals that may be uncomfortable waiting a long time (grandparents, parents with small children) make sure to list these early on so that they can do what is necessary to be more comfortable.
Assign someone to be in charge of this list, we refer to that person as your 'list person or list coordinator.' It should be someone who knows all (or most) of the people on the list. Sometimes it is helpful to have a list person from the Bride's side and a partner list person from the Groom's side of the family. Try to assign these duties to someone other than your 'GO-TO' person (see 'Let Go'), as the Go-to is often busy answering questions or giving directions during the formals. The 'List Coordinator' should be instructed to gather the 'next' group on the list while your photographers are photographing the current group. The 'List' person needs to be organized and it is helpful if they have the demeanor of a drill sergeant. Make sure that they have a pencil so that they can cross each shot off the list as it is taken. This can make a real difference in how smooth or chaotic the 'formals' portion of the day flows.
Start your list weeks prior to the wedding so that you can periodically check to make sure that no one is forgotten. You will be in dozens of shots, if someone asks, "did we get a shot of Aunt Mable and Uncle Ed?", you will probably respond, "oh, I'm sure we did", later to find out that they rode all the way from Kansas in an empty freight car for your wedding and did not get the image that they would have cherished for the rest of their lives.
At your rehearsal dinner, please make anannouncement that you are paying a significant amount for your photography and do not want it ruined by well meaning family members taking shots or flash photography while your paid photographer is working. Posed family members find it hard not to look at someone that they recognize with a camera, it will look strange in your final images if everyone is looking at the photographer except for one or two people.
Exclusivity is requested ONLY during posed romantic portraits, the first look and the family formals. The rest of the day it is a 'free-for-all.'
Some people actually 'look forward' to this time and it is often seen as a unique opportunity, the extended family is finally together and it must be documented. Others see this time as a necessary burden to be undertaken. Either way there is no reason not to have a little fun with it.
The most efficient an time-economical way to accomplish this is by creating a 'Formals List'.
This is a 'name specific' list of everyone that you would like in your 'Formal' family group shots. There is no limit to the number of individuals that you can include on this list. The bridal-party shots do not need to be listed.
Start with the shots that are the most important to you. If time runs short some of the less important shots can be taken at the reception.
If possible start with the largest groups, eliminating individuals from the group with each shot rather than adding to the group. For example; the list could include the Bride and Groom, both sets of parents, siblings and grandparents. The following shot is sans the grandparents, the next without siblings, etc.
If your shot list includes individuals that may be uncomfortable waiting a long time (grandparents, parents with small children) make sure to list these early on so that they can do what is necessary to be more comfortable.
Assign someone to be in charge of this list, we refer to that person as your 'list person or list coordinator.' It should be someone who knows all (or most) of the people on the list. Sometimes it is helpful to have a list person from the Bride's side and a partner list person from the Groom's side of the family. Try to assign these duties to someone other than your 'GO-TO' person (see 'Let Go'), as the Go-to is often busy answering questions or giving directions during the formals. The 'List Coordinator' should be instructed to gather the 'next' group on the list while your photographers are photographing the current group. The 'List' person needs to be organized and it is helpful if they have the demeanor of a drill sergeant. Make sure that they have a pencil so that they can cross each shot off the list as it is taken. This can make a real difference in how smooth or chaotic the 'formals' portion of the day flows.
Start your list weeks prior to the wedding so that you can periodically check to make sure that no one is forgotten. You will be in dozens of shots, if someone asks, "did we get a shot of Aunt Mable and Uncle Ed?", you will probably respond, "oh, I'm sure we did", later to find out that they rode all the way from Kansas in an empty freight car for your wedding and did not get the image that they would have cherished for the rest of their lives.
At your rehearsal dinner, please make anannouncement that you are paying a significant amount for your photography and do not want it ruined by well meaning family members taking shots or flash photography while your paid photographer is working. Posed family members find it hard not to look at someone that they recognize with a camera, it will look strange in your final images if everyone is looking at the photographer except for one or two people.
Exclusivity is requested ONLY during posed romantic portraits, the first look and the family formals. The rest of the day it is a 'free-for-all.'
Formals, Before or After - A few words of advice
One very important decision to make, as if there have not been enough already, is;
'will we be seeing each other prior to the ceremony?'
There are pros and cons to consider when making this decision that will have a definite bearing on how your day will progress. Following are some observations that we, and a majority of our couples, have made during the past decade and a half of photography that might help you in with that decision.
Years ago 'tradition' dictated that couples and their families were photographed together after the ceremony. Prior to the ceremony, the photographer would scramble about piecing together as many groups as possible while maintaining visual distance between the bride and groom. After the ceremony many of the same groups would be photographed together for similar images, now including the happy couple.
Eighty to ninety percent of all couples now elect to conduct the group photography prior to the ceremony. The biggest objection most couples have to photography after the wedding is that; their guests are left waiting during the one and a half to three hours it takes for good formal portraiture. Many couples are motivated to do the majority of the photography prior to the ceremony because of their own experience as 'waiting guests', wondering when the bride and groom would finally appear. Without the 'guests-of-honor' the party is a bit dull. Some of the guests may also have limitations on the amount of time they can stay. If the bride and groom elect to have post-ceremony formal portraits it may seriously limit the amount of time they have to spend with their guests.
Prior to the ceremony, everything; flowers, hair, make-up, clothes, moods are at their very best. The children are clean, the tuxes and dresses are pressed, after months of planning, the air is filled with an electric anticipation of the events to come. Everything is at it's finest. . . . Afterwards, . . .well, 'things' happen; people hug, people cry, mascara runs, lipstick smears, flowers wilt. People's thoughts turn to; 'how fast can I loose these shoes / this jacket / this tie', '. . . this is a hosted bar, . . . right?' Things are a bit less polished and perfect which is okay for candid photography but less than ideal for formal group portraits.
imagine, . . .
. . . you have just looked into the eyes of your true love. You have exchanges vows, rings and a commitment for a lifetime. You walk down the aisle hand-in-hand to congradulations, hugs, kisses and and are headed towards what looks to be a large scale emotional outburst, . . . up pops your photographer!
'time for pictures!'
There is a break in the momentum of the event, . . . attendants are scattered, conversing, taking off shoes / jackets / ties, getting a drink and attending to their own agendas. People need to be gathered, drinks and hor'de ouvuers pryed from white knucked grasps, time is passing, impatience grows. People who cannot be found miss out on being in a picture - anxiety grows, everyone wants to be at the party but they also need to be 'in the picture.' Your photographer fears for his life because of the angry looks from guests (okay, THAT part was a little much but you get the idea).
if only there were a way, . . .
to maintain the 'polish', the excitement, the moment of emotional climax, . . .
We can do that! We like to call it the
'First Look'
The stage is set in a private area. Plans are set in motion to keep the bride and groom secluded from friends, family and the rest of the bridal party. The groom stands with his back turned, eyes closed, anticipating the soft touch, the gentle squeeze of his bride-to-be's hand, that tells him that she too is standing, eyes closed, turned away, waiting, . . .
'you can turn around now'
The eyes, the hair, the dress, the tux, the hugs, kisses and soft words all expressed in a private moment away from the rest of the world. Likely the last opportunity until the evening is over for a 'private' romantic embrace. This is the best opportunity for us as your photographers to capture the thrill of seeing each other for the first time.
As the various groups now move into the photographic session there is excitement and anticipation - but everyone is relaxed because they know that time is on their side. Everyone cooperates, it is their duty as family and friends, BUT, after walking down the aisle, standing in and sitting through the ceremony, they feel that they have done just about enough. They want to relax, take off the shoes / jacket / tie (again), get a drink and not pose for a darn photographer!
'What about the Grand Entrance?!
won't it 'kill the thrill'?
Hardly, . . . but don't ask us, ask any bride and groom. When the music begins, the guests rise, the bride appears and walks down the aisle to meet her groom - the beautiful vision many brides dream of remains intact. In contrast, the few who have waited with raising anxiety don't clearly remember the experience. Stage fright is rampant, formality is the 'rule'. The groom is standing at the altar - how can he be himself? he can't kiss you, can't tell you how beautiful you are or how lovely you look in that dress, hugs aren't generally allowed. But with a private moment before the ceremony he can do all that and more. Perhaps the first time that the bride and groom see each other can be richer when it's for their eyes only rather than on a public stage.
It is up to you, . . .
If this decision is difficult, we encourage you to search out friends and family who have done it both ways. As professionals, and your photographers, we are woring for you. It is YOUR wedding day. Our promise and obligation to you is to provide the very best service that is possible. We want to make sure that any decisions that you make concerning the circumstances and situations involved in your photography are 'informed' ones.
'will we be seeing each other prior to the ceremony?'
There are pros and cons to consider when making this decision that will have a definite bearing on how your day will progress. Following are some observations that we, and a majority of our couples, have made during the past decade and a half of photography that might help you in with that decision.
Years ago 'tradition' dictated that couples and their families were photographed together after the ceremony. Prior to the ceremony, the photographer would scramble about piecing together as many groups as possible while maintaining visual distance between the bride and groom. After the ceremony many of the same groups would be photographed together for similar images, now including the happy couple.
Eighty to ninety percent of all couples now elect to conduct the group photography prior to the ceremony. The biggest objection most couples have to photography after the wedding is that; their guests are left waiting during the one and a half to three hours it takes for good formal portraiture. Many couples are motivated to do the majority of the photography prior to the ceremony because of their own experience as 'waiting guests', wondering when the bride and groom would finally appear. Without the 'guests-of-honor' the party is a bit dull. Some of the guests may also have limitations on the amount of time they can stay. If the bride and groom elect to have post-ceremony formal portraits it may seriously limit the amount of time they have to spend with their guests.
Prior to the ceremony, everything; flowers, hair, make-up, clothes, moods are at their very best. The children are clean, the tuxes and dresses are pressed, after months of planning, the air is filled with an electric anticipation of the events to come. Everything is at it's finest. . . . Afterwards, . . .well, 'things' happen; people hug, people cry, mascara runs, lipstick smears, flowers wilt. People's thoughts turn to; 'how fast can I loose these shoes / this jacket / this tie', '. . . this is a hosted bar, . . . right?' Things are a bit less polished and perfect which is okay for candid photography but less than ideal for formal group portraits.
imagine, . . .
. . . you have just looked into the eyes of your true love. You have exchanges vows, rings and a commitment for a lifetime. You walk down the aisle hand-in-hand to congradulations, hugs, kisses and and are headed towards what looks to be a large scale emotional outburst, . . . up pops your photographer!
'time for pictures!'
There is a break in the momentum of the event, . . . attendants are scattered, conversing, taking off shoes / jackets / ties, getting a drink and attending to their own agendas. People need to be gathered, drinks and hor'de ouvuers pryed from white knucked grasps, time is passing, impatience grows. People who cannot be found miss out on being in a picture - anxiety grows, everyone wants to be at the party but they also need to be 'in the picture.' Your photographer fears for his life because of the angry looks from guests (okay, THAT part was a little much but you get the idea).
if only there were a way, . . .
to maintain the 'polish', the excitement, the moment of emotional climax, . . .
We can do that! We like to call it the
'First Look'
The stage is set in a private area. Plans are set in motion to keep the bride and groom secluded from friends, family and the rest of the bridal party. The groom stands with his back turned, eyes closed, anticipating the soft touch, the gentle squeeze of his bride-to-be's hand, that tells him that she too is standing, eyes closed, turned away, waiting, . . .
'you can turn around now'
The eyes, the hair, the dress, the tux, the hugs, kisses and soft words all expressed in a private moment away from the rest of the world. Likely the last opportunity until the evening is over for a 'private' romantic embrace. This is the best opportunity for us as your photographers to capture the thrill of seeing each other for the first time.
As the various groups now move into the photographic session there is excitement and anticipation - but everyone is relaxed because they know that time is on their side. Everyone cooperates, it is their duty as family and friends, BUT, after walking down the aisle, standing in and sitting through the ceremony, they feel that they have done just about enough. They want to relax, take off the shoes / jacket / tie (again), get a drink and not pose for a darn photographer!
'What about the Grand Entrance?!
won't it 'kill the thrill'?
Hardly, . . . but don't ask us, ask any bride and groom. When the music begins, the guests rise, the bride appears and walks down the aisle to meet her groom - the beautiful vision many brides dream of remains intact. In contrast, the few who have waited with raising anxiety don't clearly remember the experience. Stage fright is rampant, formality is the 'rule'. The groom is standing at the altar - how can he be himself? he can't kiss you, can't tell you how beautiful you are or how lovely you look in that dress, hugs aren't generally allowed. But with a private moment before the ceremony he can do all that and more. Perhaps the first time that the bride and groom see each other can be richer when it's for their eyes only rather than on a public stage.
It is up to you, . . .
If this decision is difficult, we encourage you to search out friends and family who have done it both ways. As professionals, and your photographers, we are woring for you. It is YOUR wedding day. Our promise and obligation to you is to provide the very best service that is possible. We want to make sure that any decisions that you make concerning the circumstances and situations involved in your photography are 'informed' ones.
Just Let Go - Tips for maintaining your sanity
Many couples get so caught up in the details of the day that when it actually arrives they find it hard to just 'kick-back' and enjoy the party. We feel it is extremely important to point out, that you have put in a year or more (. . . sometimes, less) planning the events that are to transpire with in the space of a few days. It would be a shame to 'stress-out' to the point where you did not enjoy your own party. . . so we have a few
Helpful Hints to Make your Day Run Smoother
During your Bridal Preps - Have someone assigned as your 'Go-To’ person. Make sure that you have shared all the details of the day with this person so that when one person after another comes a knockin on the door and says, ”we HAVE to talk to the bride about this (or that)”, we can say, “no, go talk to so-and-so, they have the answers” This can make the difference between the normal insanity of preparation and total mayhem. This person should not be the Mother of the Bride or Maid of Honor or a Bride’s Maid as they are generally helping with the preps, anyone else is fair game. This is a person your caterer will ‘go-to’, your florist will ‘go-to’, your decorators will ‘go-to’ etc., etc., etc.
An Emergency Kit - may not be necessary but, . . . better safe than sorry. It should at least contain REAL scissors, needle and thread (that matches the dress), and a hand towel to catch the drips from wet boquet stems. Also, check with the shop where you purchased the dress and find out what to do in case of stains.The ‘new’ eight-hour lipsticks can be difficult to remove once they have accidently ended up on a wedding dress.
Flower Delivery - Make sure that your florist delivers the boutineers to the room where the guys are prepping.
A Formals List - Like it or not most people opt for some family group images. This can go very smoothly and even be a bit fun with some advance planning. Create a name specific list of the people you would like in 'posed' shots. (see: ‘Making a Formals List’ for an in depth discussion of this topic) Then assign the position of ‘List’ Coordinator' to someone who knows the people on the list and can keep track of the images taken. It should not be the same as your ‘Go-To’ person.
During the First Look, Other Romantic Portraits and Family Group Shots it will make for much better images if your photographer is the only one shooting. If there is only one camera to look at it is less likely that you will see ‘wandering eyes’ in your final images. Things will go quicker and more efficient with only a ‘single’ photographer. During the Shots with only the Bride and the Groom your photographer will not want you to be distracted by others. We want to record you paying attention to each other, not the specators.
Receiving Lines - Except in a very few unique situations such as an 'open-house' or where it is a culturally requisite presentation or greeting, we do not encourage this. It is not kind to you or to your guests. We like to tell our couples, “if you don’t manage your guests, they will manage you” Any one who has stood in a ‘line’ can tell you it isn’t big on quality contact. We suggest that after you enter the reception, go through the buffet (or eat dinner) then you work the room; go to each table and greet guests. The big advantages are that you only answer each major question once per table, and you only have to touch, hug, kiss or approach the people you want to - instead of every-single-person-in-the-line. Photographically it is better too. In a rec’v line a lot of backs end up in the images. If you are visiting guests at their tables, your photographer can be across the table and get great candid interactions between you and your guests.
Helpful Hints to Make your Day Run Smoother
During your Bridal Preps - Have someone assigned as your 'Go-To’ person. Make sure that you have shared all the details of the day with this person so that when one person after another comes a knockin on the door and says, ”we HAVE to talk to the bride about this (or that)”, we can say, “no, go talk to so-and-so, they have the answers” This can make the difference between the normal insanity of preparation and total mayhem. This person should not be the Mother of the Bride or Maid of Honor or a Bride’s Maid as they are generally helping with the preps, anyone else is fair game. This is a person your caterer will ‘go-to’, your florist will ‘go-to’, your decorators will ‘go-to’ etc., etc., etc.
An Emergency Kit - may not be necessary but, . . . better safe than sorry. It should at least contain REAL scissors, needle and thread (that matches the dress), and a hand towel to catch the drips from wet boquet stems. Also, check with the shop where you purchased the dress and find out what to do in case of stains.The ‘new’ eight-hour lipsticks can be difficult to remove once they have accidently ended up on a wedding dress.
Flower Delivery - Make sure that your florist delivers the boutineers to the room where the guys are prepping.
A Formals List - Like it or not most people opt for some family group images. This can go very smoothly and even be a bit fun with some advance planning. Create a name specific list of the people you would like in 'posed' shots. (see: ‘Making a Formals List’ for an in depth discussion of this topic) Then assign the position of ‘List’ Coordinator' to someone who knows the people on the list and can keep track of the images taken. It should not be the same as your ‘Go-To’ person.
During the First Look, Other Romantic Portraits and Family Group Shots it will make for much better images if your photographer is the only one shooting. If there is only one camera to look at it is less likely that you will see ‘wandering eyes’ in your final images. Things will go quicker and more efficient with only a ‘single’ photographer. During the Shots with only the Bride and the Groom your photographer will not want you to be distracted by others. We want to record you paying attention to each other, not the specators.
Receiving Lines - Except in a very few unique situations such as an 'open-house' or where it is a culturally requisite presentation or greeting, we do not encourage this. It is not kind to you or to your guests. We like to tell our couples, “if you don’t manage your guests, they will manage you” Any one who has stood in a ‘line’ can tell you it isn’t big on quality contact. We suggest that after you enter the reception, go through the buffet (or eat dinner) then you work the room; go to each table and greet guests. The big advantages are that you only answer each major question once per table, and you only have to touch, hug, kiss or approach the people you want to - instead of every-single-person-in-the-line. Photographically it is better too. In a rec’v line a lot of backs end up in the images. If you are visiting guests at their tables, your photographer can be across the table and get great candid interactions between you and your guests.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)