A Bride's Guide to Wedding Photographer Vocabulary

Dramatic photo of a bridal party in the Gatsby Room of the Olde Wicks Factory.

Demystifying the Lingo: A Bride's Guide to Wedding Photographer Vocabulary

Planning your wedding can feel like stepping into a whole new world, complete with its own language! Don't worry, lovebirds, we're here to help you navigate the often-confusing vocabulary associated with wedding photography. Consider this your cheat sheet to confidently communicate your vision and ensure seamless collaboration with your dream photographer.

Essential Terminology:

  • Engagement Session: A pre-wedding photoshoot typically captures your love story and helps you feel comfortable in front of the camera.

  • Golden Hour: The magical hour just before sunset, known for its warm, flattering light, ideal for portraits.

  • First Look: A private moment before the ceremony where you and your partner see each other for the first time, often captured by the photographer.

  • Shot List: A collaborative document outlining your desired photographs, including family portraits, candids, and detail shots.

  • Turnaround Time: The timeframe (for most photographers: weeks, but for MDK clients: hours or days) within which you'll receive your edited wedding photos.

  • High-Resolution Images: The full-quality versions of your photos, suitable for printing or digital use.

  • Albums & Prints: Various products offered by your photographer to showcase your wedding memories.

Beyond the Basics:

  • Bokeh: The aesthetically pleasing blurred background you often see in portrait photographs.

  • Candid Photography: Capturing natural, unposed moments throughout your wedding day.

  • Formal Portraits: Traditionally posed photographs of family and bridal party groups.

  • Detail Shots: Close-up photos of wedding elements like invitations, jewelry, and floral arrangements.

  • Post-Processing: Editing photos to enhance colors, adjust lighting, and achieve the desired style.

Remember:

  • Don't be afraid to ask questions! Your photographer is there to guide you and ensure you understand everything.

  • Communicate your vision clearly. Share your inspiration photos, preferred styles, and any special requests you might have.

  • Trust your photographer's expertise. They are professionals with the skills and creativity to capture your wedding day beautifully.

By understanding these key terms, you'll be well-equipped to discuss your preferences with your photographer and create a seamless collaboration that translates your love story into breathtaking images. Now, go forth and capture the magic of your wedding day, one photograph at a time!


What did I miss? What others would you like defined?

Matthew Kauffmann

MDKauffmann Photography is a Certified Professional Photographer serving clients in the Metro St. Louis area and worldwide.

I've been perfecting the art and craft of wedding photography and fine art portraits for over 20 years, and have been published in magazines around the world.

From the simplest headshot, to St Louis Boudoir Photography, to the most extravagant St Louis wedding photography, people commission me because I make the experience fun. As a bonus, I’ve simplified the process and my clients immediately view and select the images that will become their treasured artwork.

Let's talk more, because heirlooms that become love notes to future generations don’t have to take weeks to create.

https://mdkauffmann.com
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Capturing Your Dream: Balancing Artistic Vision and Practical Needs in Your Wedding Photography

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