Destination Wedding Photography: Capturing Memorable Moments in Beautiful Locations
A destination wedding is a dream come true for many couples, combining their love for travel with the celebration of their love and commitment. And what better way to preserve those cherished memories than through stunning destination weddings? Plus, let's be honest, who doesn't want Instagram-worthy photos that make everyone back home green with envy?
Destination weddings present unique challenges and opportunities that requiring careful planning, creativity, and the ability to capture the essence of the location. In this blog post, I will offer valuable tips on selecting a photographer, and the option of flying them in (and hopefully not having them mistaken for an exotic pet).
Selecting the Right Destination Wedding Photographer
Choosing the right photographer for a destination wedding is like finding a needle in a haystack, but with a little less hay and a little more photography gear. Here are some tips to guide couples in the selection process:
Review portfolios and previous work to gauge the photographer's style, creativity, and ability to capture destination weddings.
Seek recommendations and read reviews (because Uncle Bob's polaroids from the '80s might not cut it) from other couples who have had destination weddings to gain insights into their experiences with different photographers.
Conduct interviews or video calls (cue the cheesy game show music) to get to know the photographer on a personal level and determine if they align with your preferences and vision (or if they laugh at all your jokes).
Consider their experience and familiarity with destination weddings (because they need to be able to handle more than just a luggage cart at the airport), as well as their ability to handle the unique challenges that each location may offer.
Flying in the Photographer
Bringing a photographer from a different location to the destination requires some planning and coordination. Here are some tips for flying in a photographer for a destination wedding:
Start the process early (because last-minute flights tend to cost more than your entire wedding budget): Flight bookings, accommodations, and travel arrangements should be made well in advance to secure the best rates and availability.
Consider travel costs: Discuss with the photographer who will be responsible for covering their travel expenses and ensure that all parties are clear on the arrangements.
Communicate with the venue (because you don't want the photographer to end up in the kitchen instead of at the altar): Inform the venue about the photographer's arrival and any specific requirements they may have to ensure a smooth entry and access to the wedding location (no, they can't use the secret passage behind the broom closet).
Capturing the Essence of the Location
Destination weddings are all about showcasing the beauty and uniqueness of the location. After all, who wants generic wedding photos when you could have jaw-dropping shots that make everyone ask, "Where in the world is that?" Here are some ideas of what might be captured to help showcase the essence of the destination:
Location, location, location: Before the wedding day, familiarize yourself with the local culture, landmarks, and scenic spots to identify unique settings for photos that you might want. Especially if your photographer offers a complimentary couples session with their package ;).
Natural light: Take advantage of the destination's natural lighting conditions, whether it's the golden hour on a beach or the soft glow of a sunset against a cityscape (this is usually your photographers favorite time of day, so they might already be planning on doing your portraits then anyway.).
Local elements (because a llama in a wedding photo is always a good idea): Integrating local elements and surroundings into the photographs create a sense of the place and authenticity. This could include capturing the y'all against iconic landmarks, utilizing traditional architecture, or including local flora and fauna (as long as they're not man-eating plants).
Adventurous shots (because why not have epic photos?): Embrace the adventurous spirit of destination weddings by incorporating some unconventional locations, such as cliffside vistas, mountain peaks, or hidden gem spots that reflect the destination's charm (just remember to pack your hiking boots).
Destination wedding photography offers a unique opportunity to capture the love and beauty of a couple's special day in breathtaking locations. From navigating unfamiliar territory to capturing the essence of the destination, destination wedding photographers have their work cut out for them. But with careful planning, a sense of adventure, and a dash of humor, your photographer can create unforgettable images that transport y'all back to the magical moments of your destination wedding for years to come.
So, whether you're planning a beachside extravaganza or a mountaintop adventure, remember to select the right photographer, and get ready to have memories that will make your friends back home wish they had crashed your wedding :D
