One of the beauties of wedding photography is that you can get really creative with the happy couple. The only catch is that you need to have the right conditions for creating beautiful images. The wedding day rarely offers those ideal conditions.
So here are 5 reasons why we believe an after wedding photo session, popularly named Trash The Dress¸ is what you need to do with your clients.
1. Time
One of the most obvious reasons is time, or better said, the lack of it. The schedule of a wedding day is usually very tight and almost without exception, very hard to respect. That brings along a lot of stress and a stressed bride and groom are not what good photos require.
Having a separate day for the creative part of wedding photography will ensure the time you need to get the best results.
2. Diversity
Once you have enough time, you can start exploring different options. Accessories, props and other fun stuff, namely trashing the dress that you normally would be scared or shocked to see at a wedding can all be used and done
You might take some beautiful photos during the wedding day (actually you should if you call yourself a pro), but the real fun stuff starts after the reception.
3. Locations
Think of all the amazing locations you can explore and use with the newlyweds. Sure, the location of the reception is probably amazing, but you can only do so much in one place. Having an entire day for a shoot means you can travel locally, or if your clients are willing enough, internationally.
Not only is it fun if traveling is your thing, but the location of the shoot is actually very important for outcome.
4. Family
Family is the most important thing in the world, except for when you're doing this shoot.
A wedding is all about emotion, and things get really emotional when the entire family is involved. It is a great time to capture wonderful, honest expressions, but it's not the best time to start playing director with a happy couple that everyone else wants a piece of.
With the family out of the picture, everybody can focus better on what they have to do. The bride and groom can finally be themselves and that's what leads to capturing photographs that will bring tears to their eyes when they get old.
5. The experience
A proper after wedding shoot should be designed as an experience. The clients shouldn't just get a few great looking photographs in some nice locations, they should remember everything. Doing it separately means that you too have the time to be yourself, use your sense of humor and ultimately have a great time. This too is part of your job. Your clients should have only good memories of you and your experience together. You don't have to become friends for the rest of your lives, but having a good relationship while you work together is part of running this business successfully. It will get you the right recommendations and ultimately business will grow.
Happy shooting!