Your wedding is one of the most beautiful and important moments of your life. For your photos to live up to your memories, it’s essential to prepare well and work hand in hand with your photographer.
Based in Lille and regularly working on the Opal Coast, I’ve been taking wedding photos since 2020. Here are 10 tips to prepare your wedding photography well and get unforgettable pictures.
1. Choose a photographer who specialises in weddings
Not all photographers do the same job. A fashion or sports photographer won’t have the same expertise, the same equipment or the same way of working. A wedding photographer will anticipate the key moments, handle the light and capture the emotions of your day, without ever being in the way. Beyond skill, choose someone you’re comfortable with: your vibes need to match for pictures that reflect who you are.
2. Plan a meeting before the wedding
Talking beforehand helps pin down your wishes, your tastes and the style you’re after. With Cam Harry, there are 3 meetings: a first one to get to know each other and set a clear framework; a second to get into the organisation, create a moodboard and explore the photo possibilities; and a final one to confirm and lock in the details of the day.
3. Have an engagement session
A couple photo session before the wedding helps you get used to the camera and build a bond with your photographer. It’s a practice run: you try out poses, you gain confidence, and you capture your last moments as a young unmarried couple.
4. Draw up a precise schedule
Plan the key moments (getting ready, ceremony, drinks reception, evening party) so that your photographer is always in the right place at the right time. Photo booth, group photos, a special surprise… now’s the time to talk about it.
5. Make the most of natural light
Photos taken in natural light are often softer and more romantic. Think about planning some shots outdoors, especially on the beach or in the dunes if you’re getting married on the Opal Coast.
6. Choose photogenic locations
Even though you’re the main subjects, the location matters a great deal. Do your engagement session in Vieux-Lille or at the Citadelle for magnificent backdrops. On the Opal Coast, the beaches of Le Touquet, Wissant and Audresselles are ideal. If you choose your home, take care with the decoration: the background needs to be clean — keep that in mind for your getting-ready photos too.
7. Take time for the couple photos
Set aside a quiet moment in the day, away from the bustle. As well as creating tender memories as a couple, you give your mind a rest and enjoy an hour just for the two of you.
8. Capture the details of your wedding
The rings, the dress, the bouquet… All these elements are part of your wedding story and deserve to be captured. Plan with your photographer when these items will be available, while the couple are getting ready, for example.
9. Trust your photographer
Don’t try to work out why they pose you against the light or from a particular angle. This moment of letting go is yours. An experienced photographer will guide you, put you at ease and capture your most beautiful emotions.
10. Enjoy every moment
The more relaxed you are, the more natural your photos will be. Forget the camera and live your day to the full. For inspiration, discover Mathilde and Henri’s wedding at the Prieuré de Binson or Leena and Jonah’s at the Domaine de Selmane. And for yours, discover my wedding stories or write to me.