Getting the best out of your photographs - tips from a photographer 784 views

I’m there watching the moment the bride takes her first steps in her wedding dress, I see the anxious look on the groom’s face as he awaits her arrival, and I see the love that the couple share, and aim to capture these glances and expressions in their wedding album.

As a wedding photographer I probably attend more weddings each year than most people, and as a result I have learned so many simple things that will help your day run smoothly.

Getting the most out of your photographs

• Look directly into the camera, unless instructed otherwise, to ensure your eyes are looking in the right direction in your album. It is wise to advise your closest family members of this too.

• Brides: For more flattering photographs, turn your body towards your husband so you are not facing the camera head-on. This gives you a more flattering feminine shape, as the widest points on our bodies are our hips and shoulders.

• When walking back up the aisle, go slowly! Most couples seem to gallop up the aisle due to happiness and adrenaline; if you walk slowly you can enjoy the moment more and get better photographs! Plus you need to show off those new rings to your guests!

• Grooms: When having your photograph taken, turn your body towards your bride - if you stand side by side, shoulder to shoulder you will look like strangers. Turn to an angle of around 45 degrees and place your hand on your bride’s lower back, holding her close. Don’t just think she looks great – lean across and tell her!

• Men very rarely know what to do with their hands during photographs. It seems to have been decided at some point that men shouldn’t have their hands in their pockets but I disagree with this. The most important thing is that you look relaxed, and if having a hand in your pocket helps, your photographs will be enhanced. If you stand with your hands clasped in front, you look like you're waiting for a penalty to be taken. If your hands are behind your back you look arm-less! Just relax and stand tall with your shoulders back.

• Practise smiling in the mirror – if there is anything you feel self-conscious of then please tell your photographer and they will keep an eye out for it.

• Collect photographs from magazines and the internet to show to your photographer – we are always keen to hear your ideas and will do our best to capture any special images that you want to try.

• Ask your photographer to give you tips on how to 'pose' – we always want you to look your best so ask our advice. Some photographers (myself included) offer a free practice session – make the most of this and you’ll feel much better about having your photograph taken and therefore will get much better results.

• Find out if there is more than one wedding at your venue – your photographer will then be able to plan what to do and where to ensure you get the most out of the venue.

• In Britain we often have to contend with poor weather conditions. Ask your venue what they will do to help if it rains. Many will offer you an empty room in which to take your photographs.

Photographer Vicki offers a friendly approach and tailors her service to your requirements. She prides herself in having the highest standards of customer service and providing the best-quality albums available. She is happy travel throughout Yorkshire or further afield if required, including weddings overseas. Visit Vicki on her website