Begin With What Interests You That’s all it comes down to

What matters first: narrate what you care about the most to your photographer.

Several couples really value family photos. Others want emotional candids. Some want epic sunset portraits. There is no correct answer — only your answer.

Say things like:
“Family photos are really important to us.
“We don’t want too much freezing in stiff poses.
“Photos from the ceremony are more important than reception photos.”

At Ra Weddings, we ask these early because priorities govern the shooting plan. Once photographers know where to devote their attention, they can pounce on what counts.

Tell the truth about your comfort zone

This point is really big and often gets ignored.

If you feel awkward in front of a camera, say as much.
If you enjoy posing, say that as well.

You can literally say:
“We’re a bit camera shy.”
“We don’t know how to pose.”
“We’re okay with guidance.”

And then there are seasoned wedding photographers who calibrate accordingly. At Ra Weddings, our approach combines real moments with gentle posing so that couples don’t feel awkward or stiff.

Share Your Wedding Day Timeline (Even if It’s not the Final One)

Your photographer wants your timeline more than your Pinterest board.

Even a rough schedule helps:

• Ceremony start time
• Cocktail hour length
• Highlights from the day (first dance, speeches, cake cutting etc)

This enables photographers to anticipate lighting, locations and backup plans – especially necessary for St. Petersburg outdoor weddings that have very rapid light changes.

If you don’t know things yet, that’s all right. A professional photographer can help you construct one that works.

Identify Key Personnel (by Name)

Just because your photographer is a professional doesn’t mean they know who is close to whom.

Tell them:

• Parents and step-parents
• Grandparents
• VIP guests
• Anyone with special meaning

This prevents missed moments. We know it will, because we’ve heard enough couples say “We should have more of grandma” after the fact. Good, clear names up front matter.

Describe Must-Have Photos (Keep It Brief)

Yes, exchange a shot list — but make it one that you can realistically use.

Focus on:

• Family groupings
• Special traditions
• One or two design tricks you love

Do not hand over a 50-photo list obtained from the internet. It gets in the way and murders organic moments. At Ra Weddings we suggest a brief must-have list and leave it to professionals.

Discuss Sensitive or Emotional Topics

It can be a little awkward, but it’s crucial.

Examples:

• Divorced parents
• Strained family relationships
• Deceased relatives you seek to honor

Photographers aren’t there to judge. They’re not there just to take pretty pictures of you — they are the backbone when things get emotional, especially during family photos or heartfelt moments.

Define Editing Style Standards Explicitly

There’s a high value in being explicit when outlining standard of editing style.

You don’t have to announce a “warm tone” or a “light and airy look.”

Instead, say:
“We like natural-looking photos.”
“We don’t want heavy filters.”
“We want true-to-life colors.”

Professional teams such as Ra Weddings will have a signature editing style already, but what you enjoy can help them get the final look.

Trust Your Photographer (This Is Big)

When you have discussed what matters, let go a little.

The good photographer is anticipating the moment before it arrives. They see light, emotion and timing that couples do not notice in the moment. Micromanaging kills creativity. Trust makes for better photos — every time.

If you’re still not sure what to tell your wedding photographer, the answer is this: pick someone experienced who can lead.