As we reflect on the past year, we can’t help but think about all the wonderful celebrations of 2021, the cherished memories of weddings that we have held at Gray’s Inn and also those family and friends’ weddings that we have attended, and the moments that make them.
The moments which are captured by a photographer create memories that last a lifetime. There is a magical power that the perfect wedding photographer possesses. Their ability to be in the right place at the right time, every time and the stories a photo tells for years to come. Given the pivotal role your wedding photographer will play in your big day, here are the six things not to forget when planning your sensational shots.
Be clear with your photographer on what your priorities are
Make sure you meet with your wedding photographer in person before your wedding, have a walk around your venue with them, it’s important to not only feel comfortable with the chosen photographer but also be completely on the same page.
Of course, your wedding photographer is the expert and will recommend the must-have wedding photos (trust us, they’ve done it many times) but have a think about the shots you have visualised in your head… You know those ones that you have seen on Pinterest and Instagram and loved! Don’t be shy of saying what you want, remember it is your day!
Plan your timeline
Trust us when we say not everything will go to plan on the day! But we would recommend having a clear timeline for your photographer. Think about if you want your photographer there whilst you’re getting ready, it may seem daunting, but these are often the most personal and spontaneous moments that you will cherish forever.
If you are planning a group photo, get this done sooner rather than later. We recommend straight after your wedding ceremony. There is always the one you are waiting for, and it’s always the one who must be in the photo! So having a clear timeline for when group shots will be will save a lot of time and stress (we don’t want you stressed). We love a fun group shot with confetti outside our famous historic entrance at Gray’s Inn.
Make the most of every inch of your wedding venue
After all, you chose your wedding venue for a reason. Whether you have got your heart set on an indoor or outdoor wedding, London is filled with spaces that create the perfect backdrop for your wedding photos. Take Gray’s Inn, not only is it an elegant venue with a rich history dating back to 1300s but it also has a five-acres of beautifully manicured private gardens, The Walks. A photographer’s dream with so much variety with The Hall’s Elizabethan architecture for those traditional shots to those country-style natural shots in the idyllic gardens.
Douglas Fry Photography shared with us some of his suggested photo opportunities that are not to be missed at Gray’s Inn.
“There are several great opportunities for a photographer at Gray’s Inn. I recommend a short walk through the colonnades and old pathways to the quiet Walks gardens. What’s more, there are galleries in The Hall which offer excellent vantage points for a photographer!”
Work with the weather not against it
Oh, the Great British weather, how we love to hate it (and talk about it!) one thing we can’t do is change it. Although most of us would love a serene and sunny day, we must remember this isn’t always the reality. So, use that glorious blustery wind for natural style shots with your veil, create atmospheric rainy shots under an umbrella, and if you are lucky enough to have outdoor space at your wedding venue, embrace your surroundings no matter what the weather. May it be summer with the gardens in full bloom or with the fading autumn light among fallen leaves. Gone are the days of overly traditional wedding photography, hyper posed photos with every family shot combination possible. It is all about those natural, candid, spontaneous moments.
Embrace technology
Your wedding day might be something steeped in tradition but there is no reason why you can’t use the latest technology to help document your special day. Drones are certainly on-trend, and they can help capture a moment with a new dimension, anything from unique overhead videos of the bride and groom to exciting effortless photos of the whole wedding party. If you have outdoor space at your wedding venue, we would definitely recommend it!
Make the most of choosing a Central London wedding
Not only do you want to make the most of your venue but also the surrounding area. Gray’s Inn is a hidden treasure in the heart of Central London, the venue is just moments away from Chancery Lane and Holborn which offers the perfect backdrop for capturing the hustle and bustle of city life that surrounds.
We’d recommend taking a wander around your wedding venue if you don’t know the area well, you are bound to come across an interesting spot! Just a stroll down the road from Gray’s inn is one of London’s oldest and most iconic landmarks, St Paul’s Cathedral (It’s not easy to just get married there you know, so why not have some photos close by instead!) And what’s more, Millennium Bridge is just a stone’s throw away, we would recommend a photo on the bridge with St Paul’s in the background.
We know there is a lot that goes into planning a wedding day but planning with your wedding venue and photographer will ensure those cherished memories are captured. Good luck planning. Here’s to 2022!