How to Prepare for Your Wedding Day: Photography Edition

Your wedding day is one of the most magical moments of your life, and your photos will preserve those memories forever. Preparation is key to ensuring your photography session goes smoothly and captures every emotion, detail, and beautiful candid.

Courtney Ferrante Photography, serving couples across Tampa, St. Pete, and the Gulf Coast, brings nearly 6 year of experience helping couples look and feel their best in front of the camera. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to prepare for your wedding photos like a pro.

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1. Schedule a Pre-Wedding Consultation

A consultation with your photographer helps you align on expectations, style, and vision. During your meeting, discuss:

• Your wedding timeline and must-have shots
• Lighting and venue details
• The overall aesthetic (modern, romantic, alternative, editorial)
• Posing comfort and preferences

I include a personalized consultation with every wedding package, ensuring your photos feel authentic and tailored to your unique love story.

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2. Build a Realistic Wedding Timeline

Your timeline should flow naturally while giving your photographer enough time to capture key moments. Include buffer time for:

• Getting ready photos (hair, makeup, and details)
• First look or private vow moments
• Family portraits
• Golden hour couple portraits
• Reception coverage

I work alongside the couple and their wedding coordinator/planner to craft timelines that maximize light, minimize stress, and capture every special memory without feeling rushed.

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3. Prepare Your Details

Photographers love storytelling through small details. Before your photographer arrives, gather:

• Invitations, rings, vow books
• Shoes, jewelry, perfume, tie clips, cufflinks
• Any meaningful heirlooms or mementos

I use these items to create styled flat lays and storytelling imagery that bring your day to life in a visually cohesive way.

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4. Communicate Key Relationships and Dynamics

Every family dynamic is different. Sharing these details ahead of time helps your photographer navigate group photos with ease. Let them know:

• Important family members to prioritize
• Any sensitive dynamics (divorces, losses, etc.)
• Special people who should be included in portraits

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5. Schedule a Trial Session or Engagement Shoot

If you’re camera-shy or unsure about posing, a pre-wedding or engagement shoot helps you get comfortable. It also builds rapport with your photographer, so by your wedding day, you’ll feel confident and relaxed.

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6. Consider Lighting and Venue

Lighting can make or break a photo. Share your ceremony and reception timelines so your photographer can plan accordingly. For example:

• Golden hour (an hour before sunset) is ideal for romantic portraits
• Indoor venues may require flash or artificial lighting
• Overcast skies can create beautiful, soft light

A great way to ensure that your photographer is prepared for your wedding day is to schedule a meeting at your venue so that they can tour it with you & your wedding coordinator or planner.

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7. Prepare Emotionally and Mentally

Wedding photos capture emotion as much as appearance. So, relax! Take deep breaths, enjoy each other, and trust your photographer’s direction. My warm, approachable personality helps couples feel at ease in front of the camera, so you’ll look natural, not posed.

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8. Plan a Photo-Friendly Getting Ready Space

The “getting ready” portion sets the tone for your wedding gallery. Choose a space that’s:

• Well-lit with natural light
• Clean and clutter-free
• Spacious enough for your bridal party and vendors

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9. Confirm Your Shot List

While Courtney captures plenty of candid moments, a shot list ensures nothing gets missed. Include:

• Family groupings
• Important décor details
• Signature moments (first look, first dance, etc.)

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10. Trust Your Photographer

The most beautiful photos come from genuine emotion and trust. Once your day begins, let go and live in the moment. My job is to handle every detail behind the lens so you can focus on what matters most—celebrating your love story surrounded by your favorite people.

Your wedding photography should feel effortless, emotional, and unforgettable. With Courtney Ferrante Photography, you’ll receive guidance, creativity, and care from start to finish. Contact Courtney today to schedule your consultation and start planning your dream Tampa or St. Pete wedding photography experience.