by Sharon Auld
Tip #20 – Leave plenty of time for your wedding photographs.
One of the main attractions of having a wedding in the Rocky Mountain areas of Banff, Canmore, Lake Louise and Jasper are the beautiful surroundings; snow capped mountain peaks, turquoise blue lakes, trees and alpine meadows. These areas are truly some of the most beautiful and awe-inspiring places on the planet. A wedding in such incredible surroundings will undoubtedly provide lasting memories.
Photo of bride overlooking the Bow River by Wayne Simpson Photography
You’ve opted for a scenic mountain wedding with good reason; choosing a natural environment for your wedding photographs will provide beautiful, lifelong memories. The mountains are a paradise for photographers and you’ll want to ensure your photographer captures it all. Therefore, its important to leave plenty of time to have your photos taken after the ceremony.
Mountain towns are a popular tourist destination, especially in summer. If you’re getting married in the town of Banff, in particular, you’ll want to schedule in a little extra time to compensate for traffic and pedestrians if you’re wanting to take photos in more than one location. Holiday weekends are generally the busiest, but festivals and events can also yield extra traffic. Local photographers are a great resource as they usually know what events are taking place in town. They know the area well and can provide lots of good options for photo locations.
Large group shots and family photos are best taken at the ceremony site (no traveling required). After family photos are taken, couples often want to have photos taken around town or in the surrounding areas. This generally means a few cars are necessary for the couple, the wedding party, the photographer and other assistants. It can be difficult to keep an entourage of cars together with traffic lights and pedestrian crossings, so it’s a good idea to select a few locations in advance and ensure the driver of each car knows how to get to that location. If you’re wanting to take photos at several locations, you’ll definitely need to schedule in more time. A longer photo shoot also means more time for your guests to explore area, have a rest or get something to eat before your reception!
If you don’t mind breaking tradition, you may even want to consider taking photos with the wedding party before the actual ceremony. This way, you’ll have plenty of time to get all the shots and still have time to freshen up before the ceremony. Of course, this option isn’t for everyone! If it’s not, then its a good idea to have someone keep track of the time on your photo shoot. Your wedding planner’s assistant or photographer will usually handle this task. They’ll help keep you on schedule and ensure you arrive in time for your own reception! Be sure to leave plenty of time to freshen up prior to your reception especially in hot, windy or rainy conditions. You may even need to have your hair or makeup touched up.
Some other things to consider on your photo shoot:
- Consider packing an extra pair of comfortable shoes to wear under your gown, especially if you are planning on getting a few shots in more remote locations.
- Consider sending the bridal party back early from the photo shoot so they can enjoy your cocktail reception.
- Bring along water and snacks to help keep you hydrated and your energy up.
- Mist bouquets with water periodically.
- Carry cell phones and check in with your wedding planner so they know when to expect you at the reception.
- Carry umbrellas and warm blankets or clothing (just in case).
You will be so pleased you saved plenty of time to take your wedding photos in the beautiful, splendor of the rocky mountains!
Contact us at Naturally Chic 1.888.679.9056 or at info@naturallychic.ca for help with planning your Rocky Mountain wedding.