Catherine and I typically arrive 2 to 3 hours before ceremony in order to capture all the amazing details of getting ready, this of course can be adjusted depending on when you want us to arrive. Would you like us to document your hair and make up being done? Did you want us at the beginning of the process, middle or did you want us to arrive when you’re completely ready looking fabulous! Consider this and let us know.

Catherine and I will bring in a minimal amount of equipment for “getting ready rooms” we do this to maximize the amount of mobility for us while you’re getting ready. Often times getting ready locations like hotel rooms are small and we definitely don’t want to intrude with big bulky pieces of equipment.

We start by shooting details like your dress, rings jewelry and shoes for two reasons.

The first reason is that it always makes people feel a little bit more comfortable when we arrive and focus on something other than the people in the room. It makes them drop their guard and go back to natural interactions. Once they’re comfortable again we shoot. #photoninja 🥷🏿📸 😄

Secondly the details matter! Details are often looked over, when we start with the details it gives us a chance to make you a beautiful flatlay or capture an amazing ring shot! You paid for the details and we ensure we capture of them.

The funny thing about guys getting ready is there either really relaxed and not dressed at all or already dressed! No in between 😄 Ideally it would be great if Catherine and I could arrive with the guys either partially ready or not at all so that we can capture those moments in between when they do get ready with each other. There’s a lot of camaraderie and love shared during these moments.

The bridal suite is always a highlight, full of chaos and beauty. We always encourage couples to have the details in order. Try to have details collected and in one place, either in a small bag or put to the side for easy access. In this way you can stay focused on getting your hair and make up done or any other last-minute preparation and we can come in and get straight to work. It’s always super cool to have champagne or Apple cider handy! Toast and emotional moments, hysterical laughter all of it happens at the drop of a dime in the bridal suite. And we will be ready for it all 🥂😂🥹

Whether it’s a button or a zip it’s always great to have assistance to ensure that you don’t accidentally snap or break something. It’s also nice to save the last third of the zipping or buttoning process for either a mom, mother-in-law or maid of honor to help. These are powerful images that convey connectivity and emotion.

If you guys are considering a first look congratulations! The first look although not traditional has several benefits. The first benefit is that it gives you guys loads of extra images! Pre-ceremony first look gives on average between 25 to 50 additional images it also gives an opportunity for you guys to have a private, one on one. These time are full of emotion and connection. First looks are recommended to be just you 2 this allows you to focus on each other and taking in the moment. These are usually held 30 to 40 minutes before the ceremony. Catherine and I will scout the perfect location with amazing light and you two have your moment. ❤️

Catherine and I work completely dynamically to incorporate specific elements of your day into your photography experience we do this by utilizing the very elements, flowers, lighting, decor and environment into your story. Our approach is creative and dynamic we move about the day capturing candid moments, looking for interesting stories and then documenting them. This is our overall approach throughout the day.

During the ceremony Catherine and I will hold two positions the first position will be in the front to the left of the officiant the second position is in the back behind where the procession begins. This is in order to maximize the amount of coverage. After the procession we rotate positions to the outer left and right of the ceremony we definitely consider the position of the videographer if applicable as well as making sure that we are not interfering with your ceremony. Catherine and I believe very strongly that your day must be your day and this aligns with how we shoot as well! We make it our business to not interfere or be a distraction to your ceremony.

Group chats are always really great, we like to start with the traditional classic look at the camera group shots and then if you guys are up for some more fun interesting shots. These are always in the moment improvised shots so feel free to get creative and fun!

After the group shots are taken care of we always ask couples to give at least 15 to 20 minutes for portraits on their own. We always like to start once again with classic timeless images. Shots of you guys together standing still looking at the camera and focusing on each other and then we move into more creative imagery, this process is very relaxed free-flowing and fun! If you’ve already had an engagement session then you already are at home, if not you will see that the process is very relaxed. Catherine and I will naturally guide you into positions and let you naturally interact with each other. If you’re into more abstract and artistic looks we can move into more of a posed session were light, contrast, composition and timing lead the session to create incredibly dynamic imagery. The more time you allow the more room you give yourself for fantastic wedding portraits

When it comes to surprises the day will be full of them but if there are any prearranged surprises that you want Catherine and I to know so that we can make sure that we are ready to capture it please let us know! For the most part Catherine and I will be flying all over the place capturing everything but if there’s anything in particular that comes to mind that you definitely want us to be aware of drop us a line!

During reception Catherine and I switch to flash photography in order to control lighting. We always bring all the equipment that we need and we can assess lighting needs within a three minute quick walkthrough of your reception area so don’t worry we have years of experience and are fully capable of controlling light. If there are any restrictions or recommendations let us know and we will make adjustments. Our lighting is very non-intrusive and mostly bounce flash so there’s no bulky equipment to worry about inconveniencing your guest.

Typically an hour before sunset we offer couples an opportunity to go out for sunset or night portraits. These are a chance for you guys to take a little break from all the madness, breathe a little and hang out with your buddies Cat and Ant! This is often a nice break moment for couples where they’re able to soak it all in for a sec. During this process we take you guys around for either some cool night images or beautiful sunset portraits.

Goodbye shots are times were guests lineup outside to do a special exit. You can use sparklers, LED lights, indoor fireworks or a any other fun lighting. Your guest lineup to send you guys off to the rest of your life. One great tip that we’ve noticed over the years is its always a good idea to fill the DJ in, they can use their microphone to gather the guest to form a line outside and then we wait in tunnel cameras ready!

Tutta Bella floral design

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The D’Jay Company

888.944.8805