George Boyle
Wedding photography packages can vary significantly, and it can be challenging to decide what to include. The basic core of any wedding photography package is the coverage of the actual wedding day, with some photographers offering additional services such as engagement sessions, bridal sessions, albums, and prints. It is important to set expectations and outline the process, timeline, and any deadlines for the client. This can be done through a client welcome guide or packet, which can also include tips, resources, and information on the location for the photoshoot. Ultimately, it is crucial to ensure that the package meets the client's needs and expectations and that they are happy with what is included.
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What You'll Learn
A visual timeline of the wedding day
Morning: Getting Ready
The photographer arrives early to capture the moments leading up to the ceremony. This includes the bride and groom getting ready, surrounded by their loved ones. It's a time of anticipation and joy, and these candid shots often become cherished memories.
Ceremony: The Pinnacle Moment
The ceremony is the pinnacle of the wedding day, where the couple exchanges vows and celebrates their love with family and friends. The photographer captures the magic of the moment, from the walk down the aisle to the first kiss as a married couple.
Post-Ceremony: Wedding Party Portraits
After the ceremony, it's time for wedding party portraits. These include the wedding party, immediate family members, and perhaps a few special relatives. The photographer should allow for 30 minutes for wedding party portraits and 30 minutes for family portraits.
Sunset Portraits: Capturing the Golden Hour
If the couple is having an outdoor wedding or wants to take advantage of natural light, sunset time is crucial. The photographer should plan to capture portraits during the golden hour, creating romantic and dreamy images.
Reception: Celebratory Moments
The reception is a time for celebration, and the photographer should capture the joy and happiness of the couple and their guests. This includes the first dance, toasts, cake cutting, and the dance floor filled with guests. The photographer may use additional lighting to ensure well-lit and vibrant photos.
Throughout the Day: Candid Moments and Details
In addition to the key moments, the photographer should capture candid shots throughout the day. This could include details such as the wedding rings, flowers, table settings, and decorations. These images add to the visual narrative of the wedding day.
It is important to be realistic about timing and allow for delays and travel time between locations. A buffer of five minutes between each activity can help ensure the day runs smoothly and that the couple receives a comprehensive collection of images to cherish forever.
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Details of the package, including any add-ons
The details of the package will vary depending on the photographer and the couple's preferences. Some photographers offer an à la carte model, allowing couples to choose add-ons and customise their package.
The core of any wedding photography package is the coverage of the wedding day itself. This includes the number of hours the photographer will be present and the different parts of the day they will capture. For example, the package might include getting-ready photos, the ceremony, and the reception. Some couples may prefer full coverage from beginning to end, while others may only want the key moments photographed.
Additional hours can be added to the package, either in advance or on the wedding day itself, although some photographers may charge an overtime rate. It is important to note that booked hours usually cannot be reduced once confirmed. Photographers may also offer travel and coverage for other wedding events, such as welcome dinners.
Other potential add-ons include engagement sessions, bridal sessions, photo booths, second shooters, and planning assistance. After the wedding, couples may also have the option to choose how they want to display their photos, with prints, canvases, and albums being popular choices.
It is essential to discuss expectations with the couple and ensure they are happy with what is included in the package. Photographers can provide a clear outline of their process, important deadlines, and any additional fees for special edits.
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Information about the photographer's style and process
When it comes to wedding photography, there are a variety of styles and processes that photographers may use to capture the special day. It is important to outline your approach in your welcome package so that clients know what to expect and can feel confident that their memories will be captured in a way that aligns with their vision.
One popular style is documentary or photojournalistic wedding photography. This approach focuses on capturing the wedding day as it naturally unfolds, with minimal posing or interference from the photographer. The photographer acts as a fly on the wall, capturing candid moments and emotions that tell the story of the day. This style is ideal for couples who want a more authentic and spontaneous record of their wedding.
Another style is traditional or classic wedding photography, which tends to focus more on posed portraits and group shots. This style usually involves more direction from the photographer, ensuring that everyone is perfectly positioned and lit for the most flattering and timeless images. This approach often includes a mix of formal and casual shots, capturing the key moments and details of the day.
Some photographers may also offer a fine art or editorial approach, which focuses on creating unique and artistic images. This style often involves more creative lighting, composition, and post-processing techniques to produce images that are visually stunning and may be more akin to what you would see in a fashion magazine. This style is ideal for couples who want their wedding photos to stand out and double up as pieces of art.
In terms of process, it is important to outline the flow of the day and any specific requirements. For example, will there be a first look? How much time is allocated for couple portraits? Will there be a photo booth or any special requests like sparkler exits or confetti cannons? Outlining these details in your welcome package will help the couple feel informed and assured that their day will be captured as they envision it.
Additionally, providing a rough timeline of when the couple can expect to receive their photos is crucial. This will manage their expectations and ensure they know when they will be able to relive their special day through the images. It is also worth noting any editing processes and whether any additional fees apply for special requests, such as extensive retouching or album design.
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Location recommendations for shoots
When it comes to wedding photography, location is key. Here are some ideas for location recommendations to include in your welcome package:
Natural Beauty
For couples who love the outdoors, consider recommending locations with natural beauty. Ken Lockwood Gorge in New Jersey is a hidden gem, nestled along the South Branch Raritan River. It boasts crystal-clear waters, rocky cliffs, and lush greenery, offering a unique and dramatic backdrop for wedding portraits. If your clients are adventurous and don't mind a little hike, this secluded spot provides privacy and intimate settings for their special day.
Urban Parks
For a blend of natural and urban scenery, suggest an urban park like Liberty State Park in Jersey City. This park offers breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island. It's an ideal spot for couples who want the best of both worlds, with nature and iconic city landmarks in their photos.
Beach Vibes
If your clients dream of a beach wedding, San Juan, the capital of Puerto Rico, is a Caribbean island paradise. It offers incredible food, culture, and stunning beaches. The ease of planning and travelling makes it a convenient choice for couples based in the United States. Alternatively, suggest palm tree-lined beaches in Los Angeles for a combination of beach vibes and urban glamour.
Creative Studios
For a more controlled environment, recommend creative studios like the one located in the BOK building in South Philadelphia. These spaces often provide various backdrops, furniture, and lighting options to create diverse and artistic photos. Some studios, like the one in Las Vegas, even offer boho rooms, seamless paper backdrops, and LED window walls for unique and customizable settings.
European Charm
For a truly magical experience, suggest a destination wedding in Paris. The City of Love provides a romantic backdrop for wedding photos, especially at sunrise or sunset. Amsterdam, with its vibrant and diverse atmosphere, also offers numerous photo-worthy spots, including canals, bridges, and charming architecture.
Remember, the key is to provide a range of options that cater to different tastes and preferences, ensuring your clients can choose the locations that best reflect their personalities and dreams for their special day.
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A list of what is included in the editing process
- Teeth whitening
- Skin smoothing
- Removing flyaway hairs
- Evening out a bad spray tan
- Removing people from the background
- Basic edits versus retouched edits
It is important to set expectations with clients and outline what is included in the editing process to ensure everyone is on the same page. Clients may have different expectations based on their experiences with other photographers, so providing clarity upfront can help manage their expectations and ensure they are satisfied with the final results.
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Frequently asked questions
A wedding photography welcome package is a packet that photographers send to their clients to set expectations and create a positive experience. It is a way to showcase the value of the services offered and what the client can expect on their wedding day.
The welcome package should include a clear outline of the process, important deadlines, and any additional services offered. It should also set expectations about the timeline, photography workflow, and what is included with editing. It is a good idea to include a visual project timeline, sharing important dates and the number of hours the photographer will be present.
The number of hours a photographer is present at a wedding can vary. Some photographers offer 6, 8, or 10-hour packages. The couple should create a rough itinerary to determine how many hours they will need. It is important to discuss expectations with the photographer to ensure the package meets their needs.
Additional services can include engagement sessions, bridal sessions, photo booths, planning assistance, and prints or albums. Some photographers may also offer coverage of welcome dinners or other events leading up to the wedding. It is important to discuss what services are desired and create a package that suits the couple's needs.
