A while back we made a decision about our photography, and the way we shoot. We made the decision to start mapping out the locations for group and couple photos at weddings. Originally this was to maximize time, but then it turned into something bigger and more artistic. A little bit of an obsession really. Ryan and I started story boarding our ideas, implementing concepts and locations from the couple, things they liked, places they wanted photos and creating a story around those things.
From what used to be a small things-to-do list was now a full on booklet for each couple.
Now you all may be thinking, that this is just crazy, especially if you know the couple well, or if you have been to the locations before, and your right it is a little much, but going that extra little bit helps us create original work, and our couples love us for doing this. Maybe you are one of those photographers who can just go with the flow of the day and make it up as you go along. And if so, that’s great! We still do that too. During the ceremony and reception when we are not in a time crunch and we don’t have a bridal party standing around waiting for their turn, or parents who need to entertain their guests.
We decided to make the change this year and for every wedding, do a site visit of the locations with the couple, walk around photograph and choose spots to take photos, and then create ideas.
Don’t get us wrong, Ryan and I still very much prefer to let things happen, but when you are in a heavily wooded area, that you have never been to, on a very sunny day, looking around for 15 mins for a great spot to shoot group shots is a waste of time. This is where story boarding really helps. You don’t have to create big elaborate concepts. But if you wanted to, this would give you some more time to work it out.
I have to say that doing this has revolutionized the flow of our shooting. Having a good, well thought out plan is key. When it comes to couples shots we mainly story board the locations and where we want the couple to be to get the best angle, and light ect. The rest is up to them. We don’t really like to pose anyone, we more or less just create situations that are flattering to our couples. We custom design their wedding photography. We create unique, well balanced stories just for them. In my opinion, this is the best part of the service we sell.
With Steve and Charlotte we created a plan and followed it. The day ran incredibly smooth.
So without further adieu, here is Charlotte and Steve, they were married at Toronto Botanical Gardens. We were so lucky to have Tim Forbes of Forbes Creative in Kingston be our 3rd shooter and capture some amazing moments.
Toronto Botanical gardens is ridiculously beautiful, and we had great weather in the evening to boot. We hope we get the chance to shoot there again.
Congratulations Steve & Charlotte!!!! See you when you get back from Costa Rica.
Cheers
E & R
