Your photographer isn’t just snapping pretty pictures. They’re capturing moments you’ll look back on for the rest of your life. To make sure nothing meaningful gets missed, good communication is key. Here are 9 important things to things to tell your wedding photographer before the big day.
1. Your Must-Have Moments
Here’s another thing to tell your wedding photographer. Every couple has something special that matters most. Maybe it’s a letter exchange, a grandparent’s reaction, or a choreographed first dance.
Photographers know to capture the main events—getting ready, the walk down the aisle, the kiss—but we don’t know what your personal highlights are unless you tell us.
Feel free to make a shortlist. Even better, share examples of photos you love. It helps us understand your vibe and priorities.
2. Family Dynamics to Be Aware Of
Family relationships can be complicated. If there are divorces, remarriages, or tensions to be mindful of, we want to know.
This helps us organize group photos in a way that feels comfortable and respectful. We can also avoid calling out combinations that might cause discomfort or confusion.
Our goal is always to make group portraits smooth, quick, and stress-free. A heads-up about sensitive dynamics makes a big difference.
3. Your Wedding Day Timeline
Timing is everything on a wedding day. A solid timeline keeps things flowing and helps us plan out lighting, locations, and transitions.
Don’t feel like you need to have everything figured out on your own—our Sioux Falls wedding photographers at Complete Weddings + Events is happy to help build a photo-friendly timeline with you.
Just let us know the ceremony time, when you’ll be getting ready, and when any special moments (like a first look or gift exchange) will happen. The more we know, the better we can prepare.
4. Any Special Traditions
Cultural, religious, or personal traditions are a big part of your story. If you’re including one in your day—no matter how big or small—share it with us in advance.
This could be anything from a tea ceremony, to breaking the glass, to a parent-led blessing.
Knowing when and how they’ll happen allows us to position ourselves for the best view and to highlight those traditions in your final gallery.
5. What You Don’t Want Photographed
Everyone has preferences. Some couples love posed portraits. Others want all candids. Maybe you have a side you’re not wild about—or there’s a trend you want to avoid altogether.
Tell us! We’re not offended. In fact, we appreciate the clarity.
The more we understand what you don’t want, the better we can deliver a gallery that feels just right.
6. Your Ceremony Rules
Venues often have rules about where photographers can stand or if flash photography is allowed.
Letting us know those restrictions ahead of time gives us time to adjust. That may mean bringing special lenses, using natural light creatively, or planning alternative angles.
We also recommend asking your officiant if there are any parts of the ceremony they prefer not to have photographed.
7. Backup Plans for Weather
Outdoor weddings are beautiful, but weather can be unpredictable.
If you’re planning an outdoor ceremony or portraits, let us know what your rain plan is. Where will things move if it rains? Is there a covered space nearby?
This way, we can visit and prep both your Plan A and Plan B locations ahead of time to ensure great photos—rain or shine.
8. VIP Guests to Prioritize
It’s helpful to know who the most important people in your life are.
Maybe your grandparents traveled cross-country. Maybe your childhood best friend is flying in just for the day. Maybe it’s your dog.
If there’s someone (or something!) we absolutely shouldn’t miss, put them on our radar. We’ll make sure they’re well-represented in your final gallery.
9. Your Overall Vision and Style
Do you love warm, golden-hour portraits? Candid, documentary-style coverage? Bright and clean editing?
Share your vision with us! This doesn’t have to be technical. Just describe what you’re drawn to—or send a few sample photos you love.
We want your gallery to reflect your style, not someone else’s. The more we know your preferences, the better we can tailor your images to feel like “you.”
Your wedding photographer isn’t just showing up with a camera. They’re showing up with intention, empathy, and creativity.
The more you share, the more meaningful your gallery becomes. At Complete Weddings + Events, we believe in capturing the heart behind the celebration. So don’t hold back on sharing details—we’re all ears.
Complete Weddings + Events – Sioux Falls Wedding Photographers, Videographers & more!
At Complete Weddings + Events, we offer more than just photography—we’ve got videography, DJ, photo booth, and coordination covered, too. Our team of professionals works seamlessly to capture every big moment and all the in-between ones.
Contact us today to learn more about our wedding services bundle packages!