Michele Schanker Photography » Lifestyle Photojournalistic Photography

I have decided that for the next few weeks I am going to post these informative posts every Monday. I have lots of topics in mind so It’ll probably last 4 or 5 weeks.

Have you ever thought about a first look? Do you know what that is?

Usually when I mention a first look to potential clients I either get the reaction of “No Way!” or a blank stare as to say why would I do that?

However I like to encourage all clients to give it some thought and make sure the idea really isn’t for you.

What is a first look? Simply put it is when the bride and groom see each other for the first time before the ceremony. It is a private meeting between just the two of you. No parents, no bridal party. Your photographer hangs out on the sidelines to capture the meeting and the emotions.

My preferred wedding shooting style is to include a first look. However I do not push this issue. I understand that for some people upholding traditions means a lot to them. I will honor this and abide by your decision.

I do want to present some advantages of a first look for you to consider when making this decision:

1. You get to see each other for the first time in a very private setting. Where as during the ceremony it is not very private and its hard to show emotions and feelings. This can be a very emotional few minutes and one of the best memories of your entire day. By not seeing each other until the bride walks down the aisle, you never really get to share that moment together, alone. By the time the ceremony is over the moment has passed. The first look not only captures great photos but gives you some time to enjoy being alone together in your fancy attire.

2. It frees up time after the ceremony since once you see each other you can do immediate family and bridal party photos as time permits before the ceremony as well. Your wedding is for you enjoy and have fun. This allows you to have more time at your receptions with friends and family.

3. You will not feel the rush to get family, bridal party, and the photos of the two of you all right after the ceremony.

My suggestion – Think about this carefully, don’t just make a quick decision. Talk it over, give it some thought, determine how much you want to stick to traditions, and weigh all the pros and cons.

I have had a few questions lately regarding the new item I am carrying in my wedding packages. This item is usually what I refer to as Proof Box. Essentially this is a box that is custom designed using a few of your photographs. All of your proof prints from your session/wedding are included in the box as 4×6 prints. There is a front, a side, and a back. To show you exactly what this looks like I have included some photos of my sample box. This item is truly a unique way to present your proof prints. The design possibilities are endless and will always be approved by you.

The side:

The back:

Today’s post is going to discuss my thoughts on the Day After Session and address some FAQs.

1. What is the Day After Session:
First of all, through out this post I will refer to the Day After Session as DAS. The DAS is not necessarily done the day after your wedding as it implies. It could be after the honeymoon, a month after your wedding, or even before the wedding. When is totally up to you. The point of a DAS is to spend an hour or so capturing photos of the two of you dressed in your tux and suit and wandering around places of your choice capturing timeless but casual images of the two of you together. There is no one else around and no time lines to stick to. It allows for total freedom. This doesn’t necessarily have to be a Trash the Dress Session (but it can be if you want it to be). We can wander streets, go to a nearby vineyard, the beach, some of your favorite hangouts…the creative freedom is there to pretty much do anything. So if your looking for creative and fun photos this session is most likely for you!

2. Do I have to get my hair redone?
No – its totally great to come with “hair let down” so to speak. If you want to come in your dress but be total casual with the hair and makeup, that is totally okay. But that is up to you. You can totally have your hair and makeup redone if that is what you want.

3. When does a Day After Session Occur?
The day after, a week after, two weeks after, a month after…it is totally up to you!

4. Do you recommend the a Day After Session?
Yes – totally! Especially if your not doing a first look (I will discuss this one next week). The DAS will allow for some casual photos of the two of you all dressed up and with no one else around. The session will be done at a location of your choice. It is guaranteed to be a session that you will never forget.

5. Why do a DAS? Aren’t the wedding photos enough?
Again, that is something for you to decide. Remember if your not doing a first look you are most likely on a strict time line for your wedding. That includes the photos of just the two of you. You want to go enjoy the reception with your friends and family. The DAS gives you an extra opportunity to be yourself but have some fun photos of the two of you.

I just wanted to take a moment and let everyone that attended the Lee-Woodell wedding this weekend that the proofs will not be online and available for 4-6 weeks. I should have mentioned that on the cards I handed out so that would be clear. Check back in mid-late April.

Thanks
Michele

Thought I’d share a few more from yesterday’s wedding.

The Details:
Ceremony and Reception :United Methodist Church of Lancaster
Caterer: Lemon Leaf
Bakery: Nadia Cakes by Abbey
Bridal Shop: Rosanna’s Bridal Shop
Flowers: Flowers by Joseph
DJ: Music Mania

Now on to the photos: