We had such a great response from our first post with modern-day photographer Kim Wilson (KWP) that we are happy to bring you a little more insight from this young pro with an eye for what’s new in classic wedding photography.

Kisses: What tips would you give a bride-to-be to get the most out of her wedding photos?

KWP: I would say to just be as open and upfront with your photographer as possible leading up to your big day!  Communication is key!  If there's a particular shot you're interested in, discuss it with your photographer, so they are aware of it before the chaos of the day begins.  Lists are a good way to let your photographer know (before the day!) the 'don't miss' shots that you'd like and the key players involved.  But keep in mind, you hired them to capture your day as it unfolds and it's no fun to have an assembly line of portraits with a checklist to go by. If you've had plenty of communication with your photographer beforehand, they will be aware of what's important to you and will work with you capture it on your wedding day.

Kisses: Is there anything a bride can do to make your job flow smoothly and her photos the best they can be?

KWP: Honestly, one thing a bride can do to make my job easier and ensure that her day runs as smoothly as possible is to consider doing a First Look and to allocate a lot of time for photos. A First Look is where the bride and groom see each other before the ceremony, alone, with just the photographer there to capture the intimate moment. There are so many benefits to it!  By taking time before the ceremony to see each other, it helps calm an abundance of nerves, allows you to truly see each other (without your 150 guests staring at you!) and ensures that there is enough light (and time) to really capture the beautiful portraits they are looking for.  If you're opting for a sunset ceremony, but wait until afterward to schedule couple shots, bridal party and family portraits, you've lost a ton of light and are really rushed to squeeze everything in and get to the reception.  By allowing time beforehand to capture all those shots, you've just freed up the rest of your wedding day to unfold naturally.  Makes soooo much sense!!

We know, sometimes it feels like all of the advice is overwhelming but just remember, you’re hiring pros to help with your big day and part of what you’re paying for is their expertise. So ask questions, be honest and with a little preparation, you and your wedding day will be beautifully captured for memories to last a lifetime! Kisses for now .  . .