1. CHOOSING THE RIGHT PHOTOGRAPHER FOR YOU

This is easily my number one tip for getting photos you truly love.

First things first – grab a laptop or desktop. Photography is all about the images, and scrolling on your phone just doesn’t do them justice. Sit down together, take your time, and dive into as many photographers’ websites as you can handle.

You’ll notice that big wedding photography companies often dominate Google searches. They’ve got serious marketing budgets, so they’re hard to miss. Some do a great job – but it’s worth knowing that you might not meet your actual photographer until the wedding day, and there’s no guarantee they shot the images you fell in love with on the website.

Often, it’s the more low-key, arty photographer buried on page five of Google who ends up being the perfect fit – someone whose work, personality, and approach align exactly with what you’re after.

A few simple questions to ask your photographer:

  • How many weddings have you photographed?

  • What equipment do you use? (They should have at least two camera bodies and a range of lenses.)

  • How would you describe your style?

  • What’s included in your packages?

Taking the time to ask the right questions and really look through full galleries will make all the difference.

 
 

2. FIND THE RIGHT LOCATION

There are plenty of amazing venues across South East QLD and Northern NSW, with styles ranging from rustic and DIY to full luxury. Take the time to find a venue that truly fits you and your budget.

Once that’s locked in, I always recommend doing a scouting mission with your photographer. It means that on the day, everything flows naturally because you already know where you’re heading next – which brings me to tip #3.

3. INVOLVE YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER IN THE TIMELINE PLANNING

This is a great opportunity to get some free wedding planning advice. Experienced photographers shoot a lot of weddings, which means they’re well-seasoned when it comes to timing and flow.

By involving your photographer early, you’ll make sure there’s enough time set aside for photos at each important part of the day – without things feeling rushed or forced. It’s one of the easiest ways to keep the day running smoothly and stress-free.

4. GIVE YOURSELF PLENTY OF TIME AND BE FLEXIBLE

The biggest mistake I see is rushing. The more breathing room you give the day, the better everything feels — and the better your photos will be.

It’s always better to start hair and makeup 30 minutes earlier than planned and have time up your sleeve, rather than finishing in a mad rush and stressing about being ready to leave.

Here’s a rough guide for best-case photography timing (based on a typical 8-hour wedding photo package):

  • Groom getting ready: 10–20 minutes

  • Bride getting ready: 1.5–2 hours

  • Ceremony + family photos: Around 1 hour

  • Location shoot: Around 1 hour

  • Reception: Through to the first dance

After the first dance I’ll usually grab a few fun party shots, but things tend to get pretty messy after that – and honestly, your guests don’t want a camera in their face all night while they’re cutting loose on the dancefloor.

Also, don’t forget to factor in travel time between locations, and try to keep distances to a minimum where you can. Less time in the car means more time actually enjoying your day.

5. REMEMBER THE SUNLIGHT

Sunlight can be your best friend — and your worst enemy. The middle of the day brings very harsh light, which can be a real challenge, especially for outdoor weddings.

As a general rule, things start to soften from around 3pm, and the best light of the day — golden hour — happens about 30 minutes before sunset. This is prime time for relaxed, flattering photos.

If your timeline runs into the evening, make sure you ask your photographer about their experience with artificial lighting. Shooting after dark is a different skill set, and having someone confident with lighting makes all the difference.

6. TRUST AND COMMUNICATE WITH YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER

On the day, try to let go of any nerves and don’t be too precious with your dress. That photo you’ll look at every day for the rest of your life is worth far more than a dress hanging untouched in the wardrobe.

Of course, always speak up if something feels a bit outrageous – your comfort comes first. But remember, your photographer is seeing things from a different perspective, and sometimes those moments lead to the once-in-a-lifetime image you’ll be showing the grandkids one day.

Open communication and a little trust go a long way.

7. HAVE AN ENGAGEMENT SESSION

An engagement session is a great chance to get to know your photographer and see how they communicate and direct you on camera. It helps you relax, builds trust, and means there are no surprises on the wedding day.

It’s also a perfect test run – and if, heaven forbid, the photos aren’t your vibe, it’s much better to find that out early rather than on your wedding day.

8. BE IN THE MOMENT

Try to forget about the camera and remember that this is one of the most amazing days of your lives. Be present. Be in love. Stay close.

Your photographer is very rarely going to tell you to stop being cute together – hugging, kissing, laughing… it’s all good. The more you enjoy each other, the more natural and meaningful your photos will be.

9. PLAN A FEW FUN RECEPTION MOMENTS

The reception is where everyone lets loose, so think about ways to make it memorable — whether it’s a unique entrance, a fun activity, or something that gets your guests involved.

These moments make for some of the best photos because they’re full of genuine laughter, reactions, and energy. Your photographer will capture all those unscripted, joyful moments that really tell the story of your day.

10. HAVE FUN

Once the ceremony is done, let your hair down and enjoy yourselves. Spend the bridal party shoot laughing, joking, and soaking up the moment – the photos will feel natural and full of life.

The same goes for the reception – after speeches and formalities, it’s time to celebrate! Dance, laugh, and enjoy every second. Your wedding day should be remembered as one of the most fun and treasured nights of your life, and your photos will capture that joy.