Planning a wedding can feel overwhelming. One detail that often gets overlooked is prep for your wedding party for photos and videos in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Having everyone ready ensures the day goes smoothly and your memories look picture-perfect. Let’s dive into how to prepare your wedding party and make those photos and videos truly shine.
1. Start with Clear Communication
Good communication is everything. Sit down with your wedding party and walk them through the timeline. Let them know when they need to be ready for photos and videos. Share what kind of vibe you’re going for—whether it’s classic and posed or relaxed and candid.
Give everyone a printed or digital copy of the day’s schedule. People appreciate knowing what’s expected of them. If your photographer and videographer have specific instructions, pass those along too.
2. Choose Sioux Falls Photo Spots in Advance
Sioux Falls has some gorgeous photo locations. Planning ahead makes a big difference. Here are a few favorites:
- Falls Park – The iconic waterfall backdrop is perfect for nature lovers.
- Downtown Sioux Falls – Historic architecture and colorful murals add a modern twist.
- Terrace Park – Lovely greenery and a serene pond create a romantic setting.
- SculptureWalk – Want something artsy? Incorporate some of the unique sculptures downtown.
Your photographer can help scout locations that fit your style and timeline. Keep travel time between spots in mind when planning.
3. Dress for the Camera
Your wedding party’s outfits should complement your theme and look great on camera. Choose colors that fit your palette, but avoid overly busy patterns. Soft, neutral tones or rich jewel colors often photograph well.
Don’t forget about shoes! Encourage your crew to bring comfortable options, especially if you’re planning outdoor photos. For winter weddings in Sioux Falls, think about adding cozy wraps or stylish coats.
4. Make the Getting-Ready Time Fun
The getting-ready process sets the tone for the day. Keep it light and fun. Play your favorite playlist, enjoy some snacks, and take a few candid photos while everyone preps.
If you’ve hired a hair and makeup team, trust their expertise. Professionals know how to create looks that last all day and photograph beautifully.
Schedule enough time for everyone to get ready without feeling rushed. Build in an extra 30 minutes as a buffer. You’ll thank yourself later.
5. Stay Hydrated and Energized
Long photo sessions can be draining. Keep everyone hydrated and well-fed. Water, light snacks, and protein bars are lifesavers.
For an extra Sioux Falls touch, order snacks from local spots like Queen City Bakery or bring treats from The Cookie Jar Eatery. These little details make the day even more special.
6. Practice Makes Perfect
Group photos can be challenging, especially if your wedding party is large. To make things easier, practice a few poses ahead of time.
Your photographer will help guide you, but it’s useful to have some basic ideas. Focus on relaxed, natural poses. For fun, try a few “walking” shots where everyone strolls toward the camera laughing and chatting.
7. Prepare for Sioux Falls Weather
Sioux Falls weather can be unpredictable. Be ready for anything. If your wedding is outdoors, have umbrellas, blankets, and a backup plan.
Spring and summer weddings are gorgeous but can bring sudden showers. Fall weddings offer stunning foliage but cooler temperatures. Winter weddings are magical, especially with a dusting of snow, but you’ll want to keep everyone warm.
Embrace the weather. Some of the best photos happen when you roll with what nature gives you.
8. Keep the Kids Happy
If you’ve got kids in your wedding party, bring a “kid kit.” Pack toys, snacks, and activities to keep them entertained.
Take their photos early while they’re still energetic. Let them have breaks to avoid cranky moments. Trust your photographer to capture their best smiles.
9. Be Camera-Ready All Day
Your wedding photographer and videographer will be capturing candid moments throughout the day. Encourage your wedding party to stay camera-ready.
This doesn’t mean they need to pose constantly. Just remind them to stay engaged and in the moment. Natural, unforced interactions always look best.
For video, remind your wedding party to speak clearly and smile during interviews or speeches. These clips will bring your wedding story to life.
10. Plan for Golden Hour
Golden hour—the hour before sunset—is pure magic for photos. The soft, warm light makes everyone look their best.
If you’re getting married in Sioux Falls, check the sunset time and plan a short golden hour session. Falls Park at sunset is breathtaking. Trust us, it’s worth it.
11. Build a Must-Have Shot List
Talk with your photographer and videographer about must-have shots. This includes family combinations, detail shots, and any specific moments you want captured.
For video, think about key moments like your vows, first dance, and candid guest reactions.
Sharing your shot list in advance ensures nothing gets missed. It also helps your photographer manage time efficiently.
12. Stay on Schedule
Timelines are crucial for a stress-free day. Stick to your schedule as closely as possible, but don’t panic if things run a little behind.
Build in buffer time between major events. This keeps things relaxed and gives your photographer more opportunities for great shots.
13. Keep It Clean and Tidy
A clutter-free space makes a world of difference in photos and videos. Assign someone to tidy up your getting-ready area. Clean backgrounds keep the focus on you and your wedding party.
14. Touch-Up Kits Save the Day
Pack a touch-up kit with essentials: makeup, blotting papers, tissues, a lint roller, and safety pins.
This small step saves you from last-minute emergencies. Assign a bridesmaid or groomsman to be the go-to for touch-ups.
15. Relax and Have Fun!
The best photos come when you’re having fun. Encourage your wedding party to relax, be themselves, and enjoy the moment.
Trust your photographer and videographer. They know how to bring out the best in everyone.
At the end of the day, it’s about celebrating love and making memories. Let go of perfection and soak it all in.
Following these tips to prep your wedding party for photos and videos in Sioux Falls will help you create a relaxed, joyful experience. With the right preparation and a positive mindset, you’ll have stunning photos and videos to cherish for years to come.
Complete Weddings + Events Sioux Falls Helps You Save on Your Wedding Budget
With a solid plan and a clear understanding of your priorities, Complete Weddings + Events Sioux Falls is here to help make sure you can coordinate wedding photography and videography.
Contact us today to learn more about our “book more, save more” service bundles so you and your fiancé can focus on making memories that last! For more wedding tips and tricks, visit our blog page.