Here is a selection of Q&As from Your Hampshire and Dorset Wedding magazine whether it be about flowers, hair and makeup, fashion, wedding themes, health & beauty, cakes, stationery, legal advice. If you would like your question answered by our experts, please email it to editor@yourhampshiredorset.wedding
To view more expert advice on a different topic, please select one from the list below.
Capturing memories
Q. We're both a bit camera shy and anxious about photos on our wedding day, but we also want a lovely album to look back on. Can you offer us some advice?
A. Robbie Khan says: As a documentary wedding photographer, my main focus revolves around capturing moments without you even realising; this is especially perfect for those who are a bit conscious in front of the camera. I often show my couples the photos taken, which immediately helps increase their confidence. Everyone is much more relaxed a couple of shots later. Most people don't like having their photos taken, so slowly building selfconfidence is vital to getting perfect wedding portraits. I also offer prewedding shoots where possible, which not only adds an extra comfort level for lovebirds but an additional set of images to add to the album!
Robbie Khan, Robbie Khan Photography
www.robbiekhan.co.uk
Through the lens
Q. We're not the best posers, but we would love a few snaps in the venue's wintry grounds. What should we do?
A. Nikki Legg says: Finding a photographer you feel comfortable around on your wedding day is essential. If you're super relaxed in front of the camera or are looking for natural-style photos, then search for photographers with that type of style.
Ask for a consultation with prospective suppliers and ask plenty of questions to help put your mind at ease. You'll also see how well you connect with each photographer, which is essential as they'll be with you throughout the day. It's important to have a fun and light-hearted relationship, which is something I have with my couples. I discuss and establish how intimate clients what this to be during their engagement session, which I include in my wedding packages.
Most of what I do is natural but directed to ensure my couples don't feel awkward in front of the camera – this allows me to capture authentic, beautiful moments.
Nikki Legg, Nikki Legg Photography
nikkileggphotography.co.uk
Showstopping photos
Q. Many photographers offer an engagement shoot, but we're camera shy and don't know if it's for us. What are the benefits?
A. Simon Blake says: If you're camera shy, an engagement shoot is an absolute must! The shoot will allow you to work with your photographer in advance to understand how they work and what will happen on the day.
When you see the beautiful pictures captured at this stage of your story, you'll relax knowing you're in good hands and can enjoy the special day without a worry.
A shoot is also valuable to your photographer as they'll learn your habits, like blinking or freezing up when you see a camera. They'll be able to adapt their work accordingly to ensure they capture you in the best way possible.
An engagement shoot encourages you to think about your dream photos and allows you to try some poses out. Some photos will work better than you expected, but others not so well. Knowing that beforehand means you can spend your time on the day creating a truly spectacular album that you'll treasure forever!
Simon Blake, South Coast Pictures Ltd
www.scpweddingphotography.co.uk
Winter weddings
Q. How can we make the most of the season for magical winter wedding photos and overcome some of the seasonal challenges such as bad weather and lack of light?
A. Dom Brenton says: Dom says: The key to enjoying a winter wedding and capturing magical photographs is to be selective. Cold and damp weather, bare trees and windswept landscapes don't lend themselves naturally to feelings of joy and wellbeing, so when planning your big day, try to minimise the impact as much as possible. Stay cosy indoors and focus on what's going to make you feel festive.
A professional photographer will adapt to the situation and guide you through. If you're having full-day coverage, shots of your bridal preparations during the morning will be much as they might be in the summer. Although soft, natural window light during the winter actually makes for more flattering portraits.
For indoor ceremonies, well-lit rooms are always a boon to photographers. In dark spaces, we need to use camera settings that can make for grainier photos. If it's dry, formal shots might still be possible outside. Use architecture as your backdrop rather than bare trees, and keep in mind that your guests won't want to hang around in the cold for long! There should also be enough space for family photographs indoors – a staircase is ideal for larger groups. Instead of worrying though, why not embrace the rich colours of winter and ask your florist to include seasonal blooms? For your reception, seek out venues with a traditional ambience. Think wood panelling, chandeliers and add decorations like seasonal berries, pine cones and fairylights, all of which can be featured in images of the day.
Dom Brenton, Dom Brenton Wedding Photography
www.dombrenton.com
