Wedding Venues from a Photographer's Perspective

If you're still considering wedding venues, photographers can be a great source of knowledge.

Professional photographers will know where and what makes a great venue in your area. Here's some of my favorites in Suffolk and Essex.

It's likely they have been there and done it many times before. You just need ask.

Points to consider are:

Where

Inside: The more natural light the better as it enables the photographer to shoot without flash. Using flash makes it difficult for the photographer to be unobtrusive and therefore harder to capture those spontaneous moments.

Outside: Look for sites without obstacles that would look odd in the background. Family groups for example, look good against wooded areas. If your venue does not have a pleasing aspect - consider stopping by somewhere that does. Make it somewhere that means something to you and build in extra time to your schedule.

When

The time of day is important as the sun will dictate the location of the photo session. It's not a good idea to have people looking towards the sun.

They'll squint and the pictures will have harsh contrasts on the faces. Far better that the sun is behind people. This gives a pleasing rim light and an edge to your portraits.

Want to know how the photographer gets a rim light effect to your portrait?

What

What photographs are to be taken? We have mentioned groups already - look for a simple uninterrupted background like woods or perhaps using classic buildings to show off the venue. Keep in mind the point made earlier about the direction of the sun. If your wedding is an all day affair you might have the luxury of choosing the time of day to take particular images. This is important as you will be able use different parts of the venue to maximize the quality of light.

One proviso - don't let the photography dominate your day. Keep the spontaneity and let your guests (and you) enjoy your day.

Reception Drinks

This will usually be quite near to the hotel for logistical reasons. Get them to rig up a gazebo to serve the refreshments somewhere pleasant where your guests will gather naturally. This will give the photographer a better chance to capture you mingling and enjoying your guests without obstacles in the background.

Bride & Groom Portrait

You need somewhere where you can have a little private time with your photographer. Consider it as a little "free-time" in the schedule for yourselves - you definitely don't need the paparazzi!

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