Tips from a Southern Alberta Wedding Photographer
Let’s be real—wedding days can be magical, emotional, and absolutely unforgettable. But they can also be chaotic, unpredictable, and (let’s be honest) a little stressful. As your wedding photographer, I’ve seen it all, and I’m here to share a few things that will make your day smoother, your photos even more stunning, and your overall experience stress-free.
And because I like to keep it real… I’ll say the things most photographers won’t.
1.The Right Lighting and Jaw-Dropping Photos (Here’s How to Get It)
You’ve spent months (or even years!) planning every detail of your wedding—the dress, the flowers, the venue. But if there’s one thing that has the biggest impact on your photos, it’s lighting.
Want that dreamy, glowing look? Let’s aim for a golden hour portrait session. Getting married indoors? Natural light from big windows will make a world of difference. If your ceremony is in a darker space (like a church or barn), we’ll work with what we’ve got, but adding extra lighting (like candles or uplighting) can help.
And let’s talk reception lighting! Those colorful DJ lights? They’re fun for the party but can turn your skin all kinds of wild colors in photos. If you want crisp, clean shots of your first dance, consider keeping the room well-lit for those moments and saving the neon lights for when the dance floor really gets going.
Bottom line—good lighting = stunning photos. And I’m always happy to help you figure out the best way to get it!
2. Getting Ready Spaces Matter More Than You Think
Picture this: you’re in your dream dress, having a champagne toast with your besties, and your photographer is snapping away… but the background is a cluttered hotel room with suitcases, fast food bags, and that one groomsman’s half-packed duffel.
The getting-ready location sets the stage for some of the most intimate, emotional photos of the day. Choose a bright, clean space with lots of natural light—trust me, your photos will thank you.
3. Unplugged Ceremonies Better Photos (And a Better Experience for You)
There’s nothing worse than capturing your first kiss as newlyweds… only to have a sea of iPhones blocking your guests' faces in the background. Your guests will actually be present, and your photographer (hi, that’s me!) will have a clear shot of the magic unfolding—without dodging Uncle Bob’s iPad.
4. Stick to Your Timeline (Or At Least Try)
I totally get it—wedding days don’t always go as planned. But when one thing runs late, it creates a domino effect that can cut into your portrait time.
This is why I help my couples create a timeline that builds in buffer time for things like getting dressed, transportation, and yes, those unexpected moments. The more we stay on schedule, the more relaxed and enjoyable your day will feel.
5. Enjoy the Moment—Your Photos Will Be Even Better For It
The best photos aren’t the ones where you’re hyper-aware of the camera. They’re the ones where you’re lost in the moment, laughing with your new spouse, tearing up during your vows, or breaking it down on the dance floor.
So don’t stress about posing perfectly—just focus on having the best day of your life, and I’ll capture every unforgettable second of it.
At the end of the day, your wedding should feel stress-free, joyful, and completely you—and your photos should reflect that. My job? To capture every beautiful, candid, and unforgettable moment so you can relive it for years to come.
If you’re looking for a photographer who’s more than just a vendor—someone who will help guide you, keep things fun, and make sure you actually enjoy your day—I’d love to chat!
Let’s make some magic together! Reach out here and let’s start planning the wedding photos of your dreams.
-Ashleigh
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