Why Formal Portraits Matter on Your Wedding Day

A beautiful bridal party in purple dresses poses at Normandy Country Club.

Beyond the Cake Cutting: Why Formal Portraits Matter on Your Wedding Day

Your wedding day is a whirlwind of emotions, laughter, and unforgettable moments. From the "I do's" to the first dance, every detail is meticulously planned to create a perfect memory. But amidst the joyful chaos, one element often gets squeezed for time: formal portraits. Formal portraits are possibly my favorite part of the wedding day.

While candid photos capture the raw emotions and natural interactions of the day, formal portraits offer something unique – a timeless elegance that transcends the fleeting moments. Here's why formal portraits deserve a special place on your wedding photography agenda:

The Heirloom Factor:

Imagine flipping through a wedding album decades later. While candid photos bring back the laughter and excitement, formal portraits provide a more polished glimpse into your special day. They become cherished heirlooms, passed down through generations, capturing the timeless beauty of your love story.

Family Forever:

Weddings are a beautiful coming together of families. Formal portraits ensure everyone gets documented in their best attire, from your beaming parents and grandparents to your adorable flower girl and ring bearer. These photos become treasured keepsakes for your loved ones as well.

A Story Beyond the Ceremony:

Formal portraits aren't just about posed smiles. A skilled photographer can capture the genuine love and connection between you and your partner, your wedding party's camaraderie, and the warmth of family bonds. These carefully crafted images add depth and dimension to your wedding story.

Planning for Perfection:

Formal portraits create a dedicated time for your photographer to capture flawless shots with ideal lighting and controlled backgrounds. This ensures everyone looks their absolute best, without the worry of awkward angles or unexpected photobombs.

Tips for Capturing Timeless Portraits:

  • Schedule Strategically: Allocate enough time in your wedding timeline for formal portraits. Discuss ideal locations with your photographer beforehand and consider the best lighting for your desired look.

    • MDK PRO-TIP: I can work remarkably fast through these (I pre-plan. A lot.), but giving some breathing room is always appreciated.

  • Embrace the Poses: Don't worry about feeling stiff! A good photographer will guide you through flattering poses that highlight your best features and showcase your love story.

  • Relax and Enjoy: Formal portraits are a chance to celebrate your love with your partner and loved ones. Take a deep breath, relax, and focus on the joy of the moment. The genuine emotions will shine through in the final images.

Formal portraits may seem like a small detail amidst the wedding whirlwind, but they offer timeless elegance and lasting value. So, don't underestimate their importance! By dedicating time and planning, you'll ensure you have beautiful portraits that capture the essence of your wedding day and become cherished keepsakes for years to come.

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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