Part IV: Preparing for your photographs | The Reception

After a long day of getting ready, vow exchanging and picture taking, it’s always comforting to have the reception – and party – ahead of you. Here are some tips that could enhance your celebration and dazzle your guests.

Tip #1: Invest in lighting. There, I said it. There’s nothing worse than a dark, poorly lit reception venue. Now, this doesn’t mean to ask your DJ to spray neon multi-colored laser beams all over the dance floor. Attractive uplighting, twinkle lights, or illuminated lanterns are just some of the ways to take your soiree from dark and mundane to dynamic and radiant.

Tip #2: Details, details, details. There’s nothing a photographer loves more than loads of details at a reception. Not only will we photograph the heck out of those things, but they are the components of the reception that may dictate your theme and establish the mood or atmosphere you may be trying to achieve. I could say so much about details — but I won’t! Just know that the more you have, the happier I will be!

Tip #3: Play great music. This one may seem obvious, but an empty dance floor can alter the tone of a wedding as easily as a full one. Plus, a photographer’s job is not complete without capturing some fun and festive dancing pics. It’s highly unlikely that a lot of dancing will not take place, but it’s been known to happen and it’s kind of….awkward. So make sure that DJ or band is getting guests to cut the rug, and you will have no worries!

Tip #4: If there’s a sunset, take advantage of it. You won’t regret taking 5-10 minutes of your time during the reception to grab some quick and lovely photos as the sun sets. This light is a photographer’s dream, and we itch to use it whenever the opportunity arises. You might even want to schedule it into your timeline. [wink, wink]

Thanks for reading about my “helpful tips”! Hope they have been useful! Happy planning!