Common Mistakes to Avoid in Wedding Photography and Videography

You're knee-deep in wedding planning, and you have a long to-do list. You have your wishlist of special moments that you want to have as part of your wedding day. It's easy to get overwhelmed by it all, and that's where mistakes can easily be made. When it comes to your wedding photography and videography, you want to make sure that you don't miss out on covering any of these important and unforgetable moments. So let's break down some of the most common mistakes people make when it comes to planning for their wedding photography and videography.

Mistake #1: Skipping the Engagement Session

We get it—life is busy, and the thought of squeezing in an engagement shoot might seem overwhelming. But trust us, an engagement session is more than just pretty pictures. It’s a chance for you to get comfy in front of the camera and for us to learn about your best angles and unique chemistry. Plus, it helps you feel more relaxed on the big day. So, let's make it happen!

Another angle, people might miss is passing on video for your engagement session. If you book your wedding photography and videography package with us, not only do you have the savings on the main package, but you can also make having video for your engagement session a reality as well!

Mistake #2: Not Communicating Your Vision

Your wedding day should reflect your unique style and personality. But if we don't know what that is, we might miss the mark. Whether you dream of candid shots, artsy vibes, or traditional elegance, we need to hear all about it. These days it's not difficult to find inspiration while watching wedding content on social media, but you can also tell us about your favorite movies, tv shows, music, paintings, etc. Anything that inspires you might lead to an idea for your wedding photography and videography.

Mistake #3: Ignoring the Lighting

Lighting can make or break your photos and videos. Midday sun can be harsh, and indoor lighting can be tricky. While we can work with almost any situation, planning for good lighting will make your photos look even more magical. Take the time to consider your locations and how they will look at different points in the day. These may factor into your scheduling decisions as you and your wedding planner work out the details.

Mistake #4: Not Having a Shot List

While we love capturing those spontaneous moments, having a shot list ensures we don’t miss any must-have photos. But beware of going overboard—a mile-long list can be overwhelming and take away from the candid magic. Create a short list of must-have shots, like family portraits and specific details. Trust us to capture the rest of the magic as it unfolds.

Mistake #5: Overlooking the Videography

Photos are timeless, but videos bring your day to life in a way nothing else can. Skipping the videography might seem like a cost-saving move, but it's one you might regret when you can't replay those heartfelt vows or epic dance moves. Invest in both photography and videography. Your future self will thank you for it, we promise.

Ardsley Park Productions offers wedding photography and videography packages that can help you save money on capturing your wedding day while still receiving the highest quality services.

Mistake #6: Micromanaging Your Photographers and Videographers

We totally get it—you want everything to be perfect. But hovering and micromanaging can actually hinder the creative process and make everyone feel stressed. Trust us! You hired us for a reason. Let us do our thing, and you’ll be blown away by the results.

Mistake #7: Forgetting to Factor in Travel Time

Weddings are hectic, and time flies. Rushing from one location to another can lead to missed shots and unnecessary stress.

Create a realistic timeline with buffer time for travel, touch-ups, and unexpected delays. Honestly, even walking from the hotel room to a nearby square takes a solid 10 minutes. Getting a large group together for family photos together always takes longer than you'd think because inevitably there's always one person who isn't where they are supposed to be.

Mistake #8: Not Having a Backup Plan for Bad Weather

Mother Nature is unpredictable, and while we hope for sunny skies, it's best to be prepared for anything. Have a plan B for outdoor events. Think tents, umbrellas, or an indoor venue backup. We’ll make it look stunning, rain or shine.

Mistake #9: Ignoring the Importance of Chemistry

Your relationship with your photographers and videographers matters. If you’re not comfortable with us, it will show in your photos and videos. Meet with us beforehand, chat, and ensure you feel at ease. A great rapport leads to great results. Going back to mistake number 1: the engagement session provides an amazing opportunity to get to know your wedding photographer and videographer.

Mistake #10: Not Relaxing and Enjoying the Day

Last but definitely not least—relax! This day is all about you two. The more relaxed and happy you are, the more your love will shine through in every shot. Trust the process, enjoy every moment, and let us handle the rest. We've got your back!

We hope these tips help you avoid common pitfalls and ensure your wedding photography and videography experience is seamless and stress-free. If you have any questions or need more advice, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to make your big day as magical as possible!

Happy planning!

Your wedding photography and videography team