What to Tell Your Wedding Photographer: Everything They Need to Know Before the Big Day
One of the biggest secrets to getting wedding photos you truly love?
Great communication with your photographer.
The more your photographer understands about you, your story, and what matters most on the day, the more intentionally they can capture it. Whether you’re working with a documentary-style photographer like Little Reed Weddings or someone with a more traditional approach, taking time to share the right information can make a huge difference.
So, if you're planning a Melbourne wedding and want to feel confident your day will be captured exactly the way you imagine, here’s what you should always tell your wedding photographer.
1. What’s Most Important to You
Every couple is different. Maybe you care deeply about moments with your grandparents. Maybe it’s that first look with your partner. Or maybe it’s the wild dancefloor and the laughter with friends.
Telling your photographer what matters most to you helps them prioritise those moments and approach your day with intention.
Questions to ask yourself:
What do I want to feel when I look back at these photos?
Are there any must-have moments I want captured?
Is it more important that my photos feel natural, emotional, romantic, fun…?
2. Any Family Dynamics or Sensitive Situations
This is a big one and it's something couples often hesitate to bring up. But your photographer needs to know if:
There are family members who shouldn’t be photographed together
Someone has passed away who might be referenced
A parent or relative may not be present
Anyone has accessibility needs or social anxiety
These details help your photographer navigate sensitive moments with respect and care. We’re not here to pry, we just want to support you in having a relaxed, drama-free day.
3. Your Photo “Wants” and “Don’t Wants”
Do you love natural, candid moments but really hate kissing shots? Do you want some family formals but don’t want to spend 45 minutes lining everyone up?
Be honest about your preferences.
At Little Reed Weddings, I want your images to feel true to you. That means understanding what makes you comfortable and what doesn’t.
Example “Wants”:
Candid shots of guests during cocktail hour
Documentary-style images of you two getting ready
Photos of the full ceremony setup before people arrive
Example “Don’t Wants”:
Long, drawn-out group photo sessions
Cheesy or posed couple photos
Too many detail shots if you're more about people than things
4. Key People You Want Photographed
You might assume we’ll just know who the important people are, but unless you tell us, we won’t. If there are certain guests or groups you want included in your gallery, let us know beforehand.
This could include:
Elderly relatives
Chosen family or close friends
Your dog (please!)
Someone who helped make the day happen
A good photographer will always capture the big stuff—but those small, personal moments? We need a little guidance.
5. Your Wedding Day Timeline
Even if you’re working with a planner or coordinator, it’s super helpful to share your final wedding timeline with your photographer ahead of time. Knowing when events are happening (ceremony, speeches, golden hour, etc.) helps us prepare for the best lighting, locations, and moments.
Pro tip:
Build in extra time for couple portraits just before sunset—Melbourne’s golden hour light is too good to miss.
6. Any Unique Plans or Surprises
Planning a flash mob? Champagne tower? Surprise outfit change? Fireworks?
Tell your photographer in advance! That way we’re in the right place, with the right lens, and ready to capture it perfectly.
The same goes for special cultural traditions, rituals, or meaningful details you want remembered.
Final Thoughts
The more your wedding photographer knows, the better they can tell your story. It’s not about controlling the day, it’s about creating space for the moments that really matter to shine.
At Little Reed Weddings, I take the time to get to know every couple I work with. I take into consideration what you value, what makes you laugh, and how you want to feel in your photos. I photograph weddings across Melbourne and Victoria with a documentary, candid approach that’s all about you being fully present while I quietly capture the magic.
Planning your wedding and ready to find your photographer? Get in touch here—I’d love to hear your story.