Photographing your wedding experience -- from bridal shower to final vows

     A picture can indeed be worth a thousand words, especially when it comes to weddings. Most brides-and-bridegrooms-to-be have undoubtedly booked the best photographer their budget will allow to capture priceless memories from their wedding day. Many couples also realize that it is important to capture the special moments leading up to and following the big day -- such as the engagement and bachelorette parties, showers, the rehearsal dinner and honeymoon.

Stacy Menegay and Joe Holub were married Sept. 10, 2005, at the Children’s Chapel in Rockport. They enjoyed their reception at a family property in St. George. CAROL MILLER PHOTO

     Although a professional photographer may not always be on hand for these happenings, newlyweds will probably want to make certain that after the honeymoon, they have a variety of photographs to fill their albums. Here are a few simple tips to help preserve the memories from this special time:

     Capturing the Preparations. Some of the most entertaining moments occur months, weeks or even days before the actual wedding. Therefore, many brides, relatives and friends find it essential to bring a camera to capture the preparations, such as dress-shopping excursions and hair/makeup sessions. Photos of such memorable occasions can be part of the formal wedding album, and also will help the bride compare wedding-gown options and select those she likes best. A bride’s stylist can then use these pictorial reminders to assist them in re-creating her desired look.

     Power at the Ready! With the mainstream popularity of digital cameras, shutterbugs take a lot more photos than ever before, especially when it involves a special event like a wedding. As guests snap away during the ceremony and cocktail hour, many will end up with a dead battery before the first dance. That’s why it is always a good idea, whether at the favor table or in the vanity baskets, to provide guests with plenty of disposable batteries to keep their cameras powered when there is no time to recharge. The most popular for today’s cameras are AA alkaline for digital cameras and photo lithium batteries for film cameras. Because professional photo proofs often take several weeks to arrive, guests’ photos are typically the first photos the bride and groom will actually see, so it is in their best interest to keep their guests ready to capture their best moments.

     Instant Albums. Another growing trend among brides today is not only that of documenting their wedding experience from the engagement through the honeymoon, but also preserving those special moments in personalized scrapbooks or instant albums. An instant album is easily created by pre-decorating album pages, then bringing a portable photo printer to special occasions, such as the engagement party or bridal shower. Friends and relatives can snap digital photos, print them, and instantly affix them to the album pages along with personal notes. With this option, no time is wasted ­­ each section of the photo album will be complete before the champagne runs dry!

     “Say Cheese!” There are many options when it comes to wedding photography. Should photos be sepia, color or black-and-white? Digital or 35-mm.? One simple solution is to arm several members of the wedding party with a variety of cameras, pre-loaded with different types of film, and ask them to shoot away. Not only will the new couple get more varied and candid images of the event, but they’ll also have a greater variety of styles for their album and for framing. Once the pictures are snapped, the cameras can be given to attendants as parting gifts -- or used on the honeymoon.

     Cyber Brides. Many brides and grooms are creating their own Web site to serve as both a pre-wedding information center (e.g., for RSVPs, directions, gift registry) and a cyber-album for uploading photographs complete with captions, to share with family and friends. Several sites also allow guests to download images for their own enjoyment. One of the most popular and modestly priced hosting sites is www.ewedding.com, which was rated by The Wall Street Journal as No. 1 in wedding Web site design.

     With these simple suggestions, each memorable moment can be made to last a lifetime.

     -- Courtesy Bridal News Network s

Photography tip sheet

Long before your wedding day arrives, provide your photographer with a list of photos you want taken during the wedding so you’ll have every special shot captured. Pictured are James and Jennifer Blanchette. The pair married Sept. 3, 2005, at the Samoset Resort, Rockport. JOSEPH CYR PHOTO

     A wedding photo album is something that most couples cannot do without. After all, photos in addition to a wedding video are the only ways to capture the exact moments and emotions of the day. As a result, you want quality photos from your photographer so that you’ll have wonderful images that will last a lifetime.

     There are several steps you can take to ensure you receive beautiful photos. Naturally, the key is finding a reputable photographer who can offer the types of shots you desire. Here are some pointers to keep in mind when selecting a photographer and arranging wedding photos.

     * When interviewing photographers, ask to see photos from a complete wedding. Any photographer, even a poor one, can piece together a portfolio of his best work. By viewing all the photos from a particular wedding, or even better, the proofs, you can get an idea if the photographer knows his stuff. Your best bet is to go with a referral. If you loved your cousin’s photographer, book with him.

     * Set aside enough time for photos. Don’t book your ceremony and reception back to back, otherwise the photographer might feel rushed, and it will be evident in your photos.

     * Clearly spell out the types of photos you’d like in your contract. If you want photos with all your family members, a shot with your prized pooch or any other particular photos, be sure to speak up.

     * Get all extras and special services in writing. Black-and-white photography, digital enhancements and extra prints may cost more. Don’t be caught off guard when the bill arrives.

     * Confirm all details a few days before. Provide directions to and from your home, church and reception site. No one wants a photographer who is missing in action.

     -- From Metro Newspaper Service