Prep Guide for Your Wedding & Engagement Photoshoot

Congratulations on your upcoming wedding! To ensure everything goes smoothly for your engagement and wedding photoshoots, we’ve created this prep guide to help you stay organized and stress-free. Here's what you'll need to have ready, along with a recommended timeline and an outline of key guests to consider.

 What You'll Need:

1. Outfits: 

   - Engagement Shoot: Choose 1-2 outfits that reflect your personality and relationship. Consider a casual outfit and a formal one for variety.

   - Wedding Shoot: Prepare your wedding dress/suit, veil, accessories, and shoes. Have a backup option for unexpected weather changes.

2. Hair and Makeup:

   - Engagement Shoot: Book a trial session for hair and makeup to test your desired look.

   - Wedding Shoot: Schedule your stylist for the big day. Bring touch-up essentials (lipstick, powder, etc.).

3. Props (optional):

   - Engagement: Consider items that reflect your relationship (e.g., signs, champagne, flowers).

   - Wedding: Have accessories like rings, invitation cards, heirloom items, and bouquets ready for detail shots.

4. Venue/Location Prep:

   - Engagement: Choose a meaningful spot (e.g., where you met, a favorite park). Secure any necessary permits.

   - Wedding: Ensure the photographer knows the ceremony and reception locations for scouting purposes.

5. Photography/Videography Team:

   - Book your photographer/videographer in advance.

   - Share your vision and specific shots you’d like (e.g., candid moments, detailed ring shots, specific group photos).

6. Guests and Family Coordination:

   - Provide the photographer with a list of must-have group shots for the wedding day (e.g., parents, siblings, bridesmaids, groomsmen).

7. Timeline and Schedule:

   - Share your timeline with your photographer so they can plan accordingly.

 Photoshoot Timeline Outline:

 Engagement Shoot (2-3 Months Before the Wedding)

- 2-3 Months Prior: 

   - Book your photographer and stylist. Start scouting locations.

   - Finalize outfits, book trial makeup and hair sessions.

- 1 Month Prior: 

   - Confirm shoot location, review the weather forecast for outdoor shoots.

   - Get final haircuts or trims.

- 1 Week Before: 

   - Do final outfit fittings, gather props.

   - Confirm all details with your photographer, including shot lists.

- Photoshoot Day: 

   - Arrive early to the location.

   - Bring touch-up kits, water, and snacks.

 Wedding Shoot (On the Day of the Wedding)

- 1 Week Before: 

   - Finalize the shot list with your photographer.

   - Create a photo timeline (e.g., getting ready, first look, family shots).

   - Confirm with key family members about their photo times.

- Day Before:

   - Ensure all wedding outfits and accessories are ready.

   - Assign a point person to help coordinate guests for group shots.

- Wedding Day:

   - Allow extra time for getting ready photos.

   - Ensure the photographer knows the key moments (first kiss, cake cutting, etc.).

   - Relax and enjoy your big day!

 Important Guests Outline:

1. Immediate Family: 

   - Parents (Bride & Groom)

   - Siblings

   - Grandparents   

2. Wedding Party: 

   - Bridesmaids and Groomsmen

   - Maid of Honor/Best Man

   - Flower Girl and Ring Bearer

3. Close Friends: 

   - Best friends or mentors who are meaningful in your lives.

4. Extended Family (optional):

   - Aunts, Uncles, and Cousins (if part of special family traditions or group shots).

5. Other VIPs:

   - Officiant or religious figure

   - Special mentors or advisors

 Final Tips:

- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water leading up to the shoots.

- Sleep Well: Get a good night's sleep the night before.

- Delegate: Have someone (wedding coordinator or friend) handle the logistics so you can focus on enjoying the moment.

Feel free to reach out with any questions as you prepare for your big day!