Wedding Day Tips from Photographers & Videographers: What Helps Us Help You
Planning a wedding is no small feat—and when the big day finally arrives, you want everything to run smoothly and feel magical. As photographers and videographers, we’ve been part of dozens of weddings across Barrie, Muskoka, Orillia, Collingwood, and beyond, and we’ve seen firsthand what makes the day easier, smoother, and way more enjoyable for everyone involved.
So we thought we’d flip the script: here are a bunch of tips directly from your photo and video team—things you can do to help us capture your day beautifully, stress-free, and without missing the moments that matter.
🎥 What Helps Your Photographer & Videographer
📋 1. Have a Family Photo List Ready
Formal portraits go way faster when we have a clear list of must-have family groupings. Think: "Bride + Mom + Dad," "Couple + Groom’s grandparents," etc. Designate a friend or sibling who knows most of the family to help wrangle folks—trust us, it speeds things up big time.
🎁 2. Gather the Details in One Spot
Before we arrive, pop all the little details—rings, invitations, shoes, jewelry, perfume, tie, cufflinks—into one box or area. That way we can get those beautiful flat lays and close-up shots without interrupting hair and makeup or hunting things down.
🕐 3. Build in Buffer Time
Weddings rarely run perfectly on time. If your ceremony’s at 3:00 PM, plan for us to be done family photos by 2:30. Buffer time = more flexibility and fewer stress faces in your photos.
👀 4. Be Open to a First Look
Not everyone wants one, and that’s totally okay. But a first look can calm nerves, give you more time for portraits, and help avoid a rushed post-ceremony timeline. Plus, it’s often one of the most emotional moments of the day.
☀️ 5. Trust Us With the Light
We’re always chasing the best light—especially that soft golden glow just before sunset. If we pull you out for 10 minutes during dinner or cocktail hour, it’s because we saw that light and know it’ll be worth it.
🛑 6. Unplugged Ceremonies for the Win
Phones and iPads ruin angles. Ask guests to stay present and let us do the documenting. You’ll get way better ceremony photos—and your guests will remember more, too.
📍 7. Tell Us About Special Moments Ahead of Time
If you’re wearing your grandmother’s locket, or if there’s going to be a surprise dance or special guest—fill us in! We want to be in the right place at the right time to catch it all.
💍 Bonus Tips for Couples: Make the Most of Your Day
Okay, now that we’ve shared some insider tips that help us do our job, here are a few extra gems that are just for you:
🥂 1. Take 10–15 Minutes Alone Together
At some point—after the ceremony, during cocktail hour, or just before the party starts—step away from everyone. Go for a short walk, soak it in, breathe. This quiet time is often one of the best parts of the day (and gives us some of the most intimate shots).
🤝 2. Work With, Not Against, the Timeline
We get it—things get busy. But when your planner, photographer, and videographer help shape the timeline, you’ll flow from moment to moment without stress. We'll make sure there's enough time for everything and leave space for spontaneous fun.
🧘 3. Let Go of Perfection
Things will go a little off-script—maybe a speech goes long or the ring bearer throws a tantrum. Laugh it off. Embrace the imperfect. That’s where the real memories live.
🗣️ 4. Speak Your Mind
If you're nervous, need a break, or want a few minutes to regroup, just say so. We’re not just there to document the day—we’re there to support you.
📸 5. Be Present, Be You
The best photos and video moments come when you're truly in the moment. Forget about the camera, don’t worry about posing—we’ll guide you gently when needed, but mostly, we’re there to catch your day as it unfolds naturally.
Getting Married in Barrie, Orillia, Muskoka, or Beyond?
We’re Passion It Pictures and Film—a creative duo offering wedding photography and videography across Barrie, Muskoka, Midland, Orillia, Collingwood, and wherever your love story takes you. We specialize in natural, emotional storytelling and relaxed wedding days.
Whether you're planning an elegant vineyard wedding in Innisfil, a cozy fall celebration in Horseshoe Valley, or a rustic barn bash in Tiny Township, we’re here to help you remember it all.
Ready to connect? Reach out today and let’s chat about your big day.