Once upon a time, there was such a thing as “wedding season”, when April through to September would see venues booked out for ceremonies and receptions.
However, today, it’s becoming more and more popular to hold your wedding “off season”, partly so you can benefit from significant discounts and savings, and partly because some couples just prefer the Autumn and Winter.
Winter weddings can make for stunning photography, but they can also be very tricky to shoot. While the majority of the responsibility for getting the photos right rests with the photographer, there are ways you can help that process along.
We have teamed up with professional wedding photographer John Murphy for his top tips. With over 20 years experience and a passion for winter weddings, his advice is:
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Location, Location, Location
A venue can look stunning during Summer, when all of the plants and flowers are in full bloom, but how’s it going to look in the middle of November?
Where you can, it’s best to visit your venue at the same time of year you are planning to get married, so you can see what areas catch the light, if there are any picturesque outdoor areas, and what indoor spaces are available for photos.
Also ask your photographer for options close by the ceremony or venue, it is likely they have been there before and if not will do a site rec in advance of your wedding to ensure they get the best shots for you.
- Preparation is Key
The bridal party, and any other guests who will be in the photos, should be suitably prepared for the weather.
Getting the perfect shot can take a little time, and goose bumps aren’t an attractive look! Make sure everyone is suitably wrapped up in appropriate clothing, such as jackets, shrugs, and shawls.
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Pick an Experienced Photographer
Winter means less light, the potential for bad weather, and darker venues. To make sure your wedding photos are the best they can be, make sure you pick a photographer who is experienced at shooting great images in those conditions. Ask to see samples from winter weddings, not just weddings in general.
- Know What You Want In Advance
Let your photographer know which photos are important to you and are the ones you really want to capture well ahead of the big day.
Do you really want a group photo of the whole wedding party? Are couple shots more important to you?
By having a list of the images you really want to capture, they can be accommodated first, leave the rest to the creative experience of your photographer.
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Plan Around the Light
Good lighting is one of the most important elements of great photography, so plan your day as best you can to ensure you’re giving your photographer the best light possible to work with.
In the peak of Winter, the sun often sets by 3pm, so work with your venue and photographer to maximise the amount of time available for photos to be taken when there is still plenty of daylight. This might mean having an earlier ceremony than you had first planned.
- Get Creative
If you want to capture some atmospheric shots, your photographer should stick around until twilight. This contrasting light may not make for the more traditional, well lit, and bright images, but can certainly create some artistic and moody effects.
Decorate the venue with external lighting (think fairy lights), or outdoor fire pits, for some truly mesmerising outdoor shots.