Photographing Couples...

Setting up a private photo shoot for yourself and a loved one can be both weird and wonderful. It's a time-honored tradition for couples to document their relationship, but ideas on how to do it range from boring to tacky. Unless you're happy with walking into a department store and having a quick photo taken with a backdrop, chances are you want something more creative but also classy.

While there are thousands of possible ways to have your picture taken, there are a few ground rules you'll want to follow. First, make sure you and your significant other are the focus of the shot. A photo of you and your partner in front of a mountain might be a great memory, but it won't work if it detracts attention from the two of you. You also want to remember your audience -- if you're sending the photo to your grandparent

s you don't want it to be overly romantic and certainly not suggestive. And remember, this photo is a representation of both you and your spouse, so make sure you plan together.

No matter how you decide to do it, you'll want to make create something you'll appreciate for years to come. For that, we can help; continue on for five different ways to handle the occasion.

5: Keep It Simple

The best way to get a photo done quickly and easily is to keep it simple. After all, the point of it is to show off the couple, not the environment.

"Clean backgrounds, clean edges, good light and a nice moment are the formula for a good

picture," says commercial photographer Matt Slaby of Luceo Images. This means you don't need a fancy photographer or a whole lot of setup. You won't need an overused tree background either. Just find a friend with a decent camera, get yourself some colored paper or a large colored sheet and stand next to each other wearing a nice outfit. Don't overdo your attire, the background or the smiles. What you'll get is a picture that highlights exactly what it's supposed to, you.

If simplicity isn't your bag, don't worry. We've got an idea for the over-the-top couple.
A playful shot that packs a punch.

4: The Remake or Fantasy

Just because couples' photos are usually associated with plain shots doesn't mean they have to be. If you're in the mood for something a bit more experimental and you have the time and money to invest, you might try to stage a photo that better exemplifies your interests.

It doesn't matter what you're into: video games, medieval art, cowboys, movies or whatever else, chances are there is something there you can emulate. A popular choice is Grant Wood's 1930 painting, "American Gothic," but choose whatever you think would best suit your personality, whether that's re-creating the cover of "Tron" or donning a pair of boxing gloves for a playful shot that highlights your interest in the sport.

If you find you're spending too much money to create the fantasy shot, you still have plenty of options. Turn to the next page for an inexpensive one.

3: The Photo Booth

If you're convinced you have to spend a lot of time and money to get memorable shots, perhaps you've forgotten about the good old-fashioned photo booth. It's quick, easy and provides enough retro flair to coax a smile out of the most camera-shy of people. The main problem is finding one.

If you live in a major city, there's a reasonable chance that there's a photo booth somewhere in your vicinity. Web sites like PhotoBooth.net even allow you to search for a booth nearby. You'll be surprised at how many are still up and running at bars, clubs, arcades and malls. While they're a far cry from the megapixel-infused digital photography of today, they still offer a means to take candid and often humorous photos on the cheap. Keep in mind, however, you'll usually only get four pictures per shoot and they'll all be very small. If your intention is to hang photos on the wall or send dozens to loved ones, you'll want to choose another option.

If you don't like the impromptu nature of a photo booth, then a staged photo may be right for you.

2: The Staged Shot

There's a reason why one of the most popular types of photos is the staged shot. It's simple, cheap and you don't have go anywhere!

All you need is your significant other and your home. Provided you have that, you'll be set to go. Just choose the particular location. Maybe you'd like to take the photo outdoors (say, to show off your new home), or perhaps near the fireplace if you're planning a holiday picture. Just don't forget, you'll want to make sure you're still the highlight of the picture -- not the fancy new paint job in the living room.

No matter how much you stage a shot, there is no substitution for the original, which is where our next couples' photo idea comes from.

1: The True Grit Shot

This is probably the most time-consuming of all the photography ideas on this list, but it's also potentially the most rewarding. The idea is simple; hire a photographer to follow you around to snap candid shots.

Depending on your day-to-day life, the potential here for truly amazing couples' photographs depends on what happens. You'll likely be surprised at how great a candid photo of you and your partner loading groceries into the car, crossing the street under an umbrella or even cleaning up the house looks. Don't worry too much about what you're doing here; if your photographer is taking a lot of pictures, even if the time frame is short, chances are you'll have a nice picture as long as you're doing things naturally together. You'll want to make sure you're not doing anything you don't want shared with your friends and family -- pick another day to scoop your dog's waste from the backyard, for example.

Keep in mind, there are thousands of different ideas for couples' photographs, and these are just five of them.

Choosing The Right Locations

The next thing you need to decide are the locations where you would like to have your engagement photos taken. These locations are places that would either look really cool in your pictures or places that are special to you as a couple for one reason or another. By choosing different locations that have some type of connection to your relationship you'll be able to be much more genuine during your shoot and you're almost guaranteed to appreciate them more in the long run.

Some great places that could potentially make your list of locations are:
· Where you first met
· Where you had your first date
· A restaurant, coffee shop or any other location that you frequent as a couple
· A really cool looking landscape or skyline that's near by
· A location with lots or bright and vibrant colors
· A location that would be the last place that you would think of getting your engagement photos taken, like an abandoned warehouse or old junkyard

Once you select your locations, don't be scared to get outside of your comfort zone a little bit when you're getting your photos taken. Have fun and explore the spaces -- you're only going to have one chance, so don't leave anything out that you'll regret not getting once you're finished.

Also, while you're traveling to your different locations, don't be afraid to make an impromptu stop if you feel the need to take advantage of a new place or background. Some of the best shots that we took were at locations that we didn't plan on stopping at.

Finding A Photographer That Fits Your Style

One of the most important things that I have learned now that I have had my unique engagement photos taken is that you need to find a photographer that fits your style. I really can't stress this enough. There are a lot of photographers out there that tend to forget that this is your wedding and not just another addition to their portfolio, so as you begin to look for photographers for your engagement photos please try to find one that you know will match your personality as a couple and who will really listen to your thoughts and ideas.

When you first meet with photographers, here are a few questions that you might want to bring up with them when they are showing you their portfolio:

• Why did you choose these different locations for the photos that you're showing me and what did they have to do with the couple? (this will show their interest for the couples as opposed to the art)



• How many different locations do you allow us to shoot at and how open are you for some brainstorming before we go out and start shooting? (this will show their willingness to be flexible so that you can learn each other's style)



• How do you normally find your clients? Are they referred? (this will tell you how satisfied their clients have been -- more referrals = more satisfaction



• How many of your engagement photo clients end up asking you to shoot their wedding as well? (more engagements that turn into wedding shoots means more happy clients)



• Can I speak to one of your recent satisfied clients? (it's always good to check a reference or two)

Also, I've found that it's also good to meet the photographer in a restaurant for dinner or coffee shop for a drink so that you can really get a good feel for who they are and what type of photographer they are. This might seem like a lot of work for just getting engagement photos, but if you're spending the money and taking the time to get them, then you should do it right the first time.

Bride & Groom

{ Engagement Photos }

Engagement shoots have become widely popular among newly engaged couples, and almost all of them want something different and unique. The best way to achieve that is to make it personal and have fun. That is when the best and most creative photographs are taken. Engagement photo sessions are supposed to be casual and relaxed so in this case, sticking to your comfort zone is perfectly fine. If you are planning to have your engagement photos taken and want to do something a bit different, think about what your personal interests and hobbies are. If you and your future spouse share a common hobby or interest, consider using it as a theme for your engagement session. For example, if you both love racing, find a nearby racetrack that will allow you to spend an hour or so shooting there.

When the Wedding is over, All you have are the photographs.

What You Should Expect From Your Wedding Photographer

The photographer should comprehend and realize your needs and expectations and understand your stylistic preferences and have a clear plan of how to execute the photo session and what to capture in image.

During the wedding, the photographer should be unobtrusive, quiet and cordial, efficient and accurate. The wedding party should not have to concern itself with the photo activity, which should proceed seamlessly "behind the scenes."

The final products should document the wedding in the way you wanted to see it, and reflect your stated tastes and preferences. The photo quality should meet the highest professional standards.

These common-sense guidelines to planning for successful photography will help you achieve your expectations and the best results:

Select a Photographer With Whom You Have Good Personal Chemistry
People underestimate the importance of the "personality" of the photographer, who will end up being a very personal guest at your most important day. When selecting a photographer establish as a key criteria not just the usual portfolio preview, but evaluate carefully whether you feel personally comfortable with this person. Mutual compatibility is paramount! Too often people regret their choice of a photographer not because they don't like the pictures, but they ended up not liking the person.

The actions, behavior and personal style of the photographer can literally ruin your event. All too common are complaints such as : I hated him! He stood out like a sore thumb, he was... obtrusive; pompous; arrogant; bossy; poorly dressed; greasy; ill-mannered; overbearing; egotistical; made bad jokes; loud-mouthed; and he ordered my guests around like he was the director of the event. Take your pick. You don't want either. I've even heard about a photographer getting annoyed and raising his voice to the guests while setting people up for a shot. Don't bring a photographer to your event which you would not otherwise feel very comfortable to have as a wedding guest. First find a photographer who you like as a person - then evaluate other criteria.

What To Look For In a Portfolio
Evaluating a photographer's portfolio depends entirely upon your own stylistic and artistic preferences. Fundamentally, do you prefer artistic photography, or the more generic, commercial wedding look?

Your wedding photography should reflect who you are as a person- and match your tastes and style. When you evaluate photographer's portfolio, look for nuances and subtleties. Does the photographer see things as you do ? Is there as sense of beauty ? Does the photographer captures the light in people's soul ? Does the photography reflect the passion of the moment? Do the portfolio pictures speak to you ? Do they move you? Stir passions?

There is no easy formula. Follow your heart and look at as many photographers as necessary until what you see with your eyes connects with you intrinsically. Don't settle for average and never make stylistic compromises for the sake of time pressures and convenience. You will live with these photos for too long to have regrets. The photographer should be an extension of yourself and meet your highest standard. Be very picky!

Define and Articulate Your Expectations and Desires
Visualize in advance what your completed wedding album and framed photos should look like. Do you prefer the lasting elegance and sophistication of traditional black and white photography ? Black and white photography will not fade when framed and subjected to light, and will last for generations. Color prints may discolor and turn greenish with time when exposed to direct light. However, color is very beautiful, especially during outdoor weddings in a nice landscape and weather conditions. Color photos in albums will keep for decades. If you favor color photography do you prefer the "soft" touch often associated with glamour or model photography or do you want crisp, clear and sharp images? How many prints will you want and what sizes will you prefer. Do you like matte or glossy finish, with borders or without ? How do you envision your wedding album?

Consider your own preferences carefully. If you are uncertain let the photographer show you samples of different print formats and approaches. Ask about the lab the photographer deals with. Look at samples of actual weddings. Be aware of the large, glitzy show samples on the wall. Sometimes these impressive wall-samples are provided by labs and not even shot by the studio you are sitting in. Some photographers are like fast food restaurants. Somehow the burger you get never looks like the one on the poster.

Think carefully about what you want and communicate this to your photographer and assure that the photographer understands your expectations.

Plan the Wedding Day Photography from Beginning to End
It is wise to appoint a member of the wedding party to be the photo-coordinator during the big day, to organize the family groups and to point out people to be photographed. Remember that the photographer does not know your relatives and guests. A wedding day command such as "Make sure you photograph Uncle Wilbur and Aunt Mae" won't help the poor photographer.

Visit the location with the photographer and the photo-coordinator to preview the wedding site. The photographer needs to determine lighting conditions and become familiar with the overall environment . If you plan to photograph posed groups outside, plan for alternative locations indoors in case of adverse weather conditions. Let the photographer know during the site visit whether you prefer candid "document the event freely with your own eyes" approach, or a structured, formal posed-groups, or a combination of both.

Let the photographer know the sequence of the activities and who, what, when and where you want to photograph (or, not to). It is important to determine whether the photographer should photograph during the ceremony. Some houses of worship prohibit photography during the actual ceremony, in which case the photographer should be willing to come in during the rehearsal. If the photographer shoots during the actual ceremony this may trigger the guests to pull out pocket cameras with flashes and video cameras, which can be disruptive.

Also, consider whether it is important to the bride to get photos in her chamber, applying make-up, getting styled, etc. In such a case it would be appropriate to select a woman photographer.

Get Things In Writing
Most professional photographers will write a special wedding photo contract. Be sure that you read it carefully, especially the fine print. Be aware that by US and international copyright law, the photographer owns the negatives and has the sole right to reproduce the photos. If you wish to receive the negatives, and thus the copyright, you need to discuss this in advance. It is up to each photographer to accept or decline this request and to determine additional costs for this privilege.

The contract should clearly define all mutual expectations and requirements, including services to be rendered, fees, deposits and all related information.

Closely examine "price packages" to avoid unexpected, pesky "add-on charges". Contracts should clearly define what is included in the price and you should know exactly what you are getting in the end. Also, be sure to discuss cancellation, refunds of deposits and when payments are due. A good photo contract helps both parties define terms and conditions and assure a clear understanding of all relevant issues. Like any contract, don't sign anything you are uncomfortable with. If necessary, take it home and have the contract reviewed by your representatives.

Be Nice
When the photographer works hard at your wedding all day, please extend a host's courtesies. Be gracious, polite and friendly. Please offer food and drink and allow for periodic short breaks. Your kindness will be much appreciated.

All of this work and effort will hopefully help you assure that when it is all over, you will have a photo album to love and treasure forever - without a single regret.

The trends of 2012 are starting to be seen!

2012 Wedding Gowns Victorian styles are an inspiration for the 2012 bridal season. Have you seen them popping up in bridal salons? They have long, full skirts paired with corsets, lace, chokers, and high collars – these are the details that you’ll see on runways in 2012. Gorgeous Victorian-style wedding dresses where colors add drama and romance!

Multiple gowns: The recent trend of having a separate reception dress shows no sign of stopping. Many brides will choose to have a fuller, more ornate dress for their ceremony, and a more manageable or more casual dress for partying the night away. It is clear that the reception dress should be much more relaxed and fun. It is all over the blogs that Kate Middleton will jump on this trend too. We’ll have to wait for April 29^th to see if it is true…

2012 Bouquets
Ultra-romantic wedding bouquets will pair beautifully with classically-inspired wedding dresses. Soft colors such as ivory or light pink, and big, plush blooms like peonies, will be adorned with details like pearls.

2012 Wedding colors
There are lots of diverse options here. The bold color pairings of 2011 continue in 2012, such deep pink and sunny yellow. Neutrals and romance will make a comeback this in 2012, however, with choices that convey tranquility, such as beige and pale blue.

2012 Wedding Food
Grooms cakes are becoming an essential part of the dessert course, going beyond sports-themed treats and becoming nearly as elaborate as the primary wedding cake. Full-on dessert tables will be a trend this year, with smatterings of pies, cupcakes, and other, often homemade, treats.

More and more, couples are including a Good Night Station at the end of their reception for their guests’ enjoyment. With the wedding menus at Majestic Gardens, we always include chocolate covered strawberries as a good night treat but many couples incorporate additional goodies for their guests.

The Krispy Kreme donut favor send-off was a trend set by Gwen Steffani and still remains popular but today there are many different options. For the past couple of years, the biggest trend has been the candy bar and pastry favor buffet. What is great about these stations is that they can be color coordinated to match your wedding colors and you can include your favorite selections. Guests love the edible favor buffets and always comment that they are a great send-off.
For a different twist, you can add the classic Good Night Station which includes a display of fresh hot coffee, hot tea or an ice cold bottle of water together with a small bag of heart-shaped cookies or chocolates. By switching from a hot to a cold beverage, this station works year round. If you are having a fall or winter wedding reception, the Good Night Station can be modified to include mini donuts and hot chocolate which are always a welcome treat on a cool evening. For a summer wedding reception, you can have traditional ice cream sandwiches and popsicles served to your guests with bottled water.

Another great idea is to have fresh bagels with cream cheese available for your guests as they depart. The bagels are packaged in bags labeled with your name and date, and make a great breakfast for the next morning. With the bagels, you can include a variety of mini bagels or for a really special treat, you can include a half dozen of bagels (usually two plain, two poppy and two sesame) with ½ lb of cream cheese for each couple. For couples having a Saturday evening reception, the bagels can be paired with the early edition of the Sunday paper.

2012 Wedding themes

Having an overarching theme to your wedding was passé for a little while there, but all-out themes are coming back. You’ll see wine lovers with cork & bottle décor and even wine tastings at the reception; seaside-themes with everything from shell decor to a seafood dinner. Embrace your theme and incorporate it into everything from your wedding invitations to your wedding favors. Just make sure it is YOU and your theme will work!

Strong wedding themes will be big in 2012.

Are you getting married in 2012? What wedding trends are you spotting?