Relax, have fun, be romantic, and most importantly, get your dress dirty!

1. Yes, you read that intro correctly, get the dress dirty! Do I actually mean that I will enforce upon you a pile of dirt on the wedding day? No. What I mean is this... Do not be afraid to get anything on your dress, the more you worry about your dress and it's hem line the less fun you will have with your new partner during your photo session. This is your first of many important days together, and of course I want your dress to look as beautiful as you both do, but I also want you to relax and enjoy yourselves and just let the day roll, dirt and all.

2. Practice being in love! Some of you are naturally romantic, some of you are closet romantics, and others cringe at the thought of romance all together. Well, on the big day it's fun to get romantic and do a little of that "public display of affection" for the camera. While being cuddly, giggly and romantic may come naturally when home alone it's all too easy to get shy when bridal party members and a big camera or two are staring at you. Remember this: It's your wedding, people want to see you in love and enjoying each other's company. The photographer, and the big cameras staring you down all day(!), are your friend. Let go and enjoy yourselves and it will show in the photographs, I can assure you of this. So hold hands lots and lots, give little kisses, and smile for the camera, I mean, each other! And if all of that sounds ok, most importantly, be yourselves!

3. Schedule an engagement session! There is no better way to get to know your photographer and get a feel for how the wedding day will be. It's also a great way to fill yourselves with a little confidence in my work style and how you look in the final delivered files. Yes, everyone feels like a dork in front of the camera! But when you realize you didn't look like one you'll be ready to go and be photographed on the day of the wedding :)

4. The day may not go as planned. If it doesn't, GO WITH THE FLOW AND MAKE THE BEST OF IT! Just about every wedding I have worked there has always been something (usually minor, so don't panic) that takes a detour. Maybe it's the hair and make-up running late. Maybe the limo driver took a wrong turn. Whatever it may be don't sweat it. Enjoy yourselves.

5. Getting ready location for the bride - make sure the room that you will put the dress on in is clean and uncluttered. All those bags and bras and other personal items do show up in photos. Have a bride's maid in charge of picking up the clutter before your photographer (me!) arrives.

6. Getting ready location for the bride - use a room that has plenty of natural light if you can. Do not draw shades or curtains if possible. Natural light images (as opposed to flash) are always more beautiful and natural looking.


... I'll be adding to this as I think of new things ...