Our wedding day is likely to be one of the most memorable days of our lives. Wedding photos make for a treasure trove of memories that can bring a smile to our faces even after the years fly by. It is inevitable therefore that we want to look our best in our wedding photos. Although being a natural in front of the camera is definitely an advantage, there are many ways in which you can give yourself a leg up. Read on for our tips on how to look your best in your wedding photos.
Before the Big Day
Practice smiling
There is a quote that says “Smile in the mirror. Do that every morning and you'll start to see a big difference in your life.” In this case, flashing a smile in the mirror daily will make a big difference in your wedding photos. When you practice, you’ll look natural and comfortable with your smile when the big day arrives. In fact, you can even tape your favourite smiling picture or that of a celebrity on the mirror and mimic the expression.
Book a hair and makeup trial
Get a hair and makeup trial before the wedding day so that you know how you will look on your big day. Also, take photos to see how the look translates into pictures. Make sure that you wear a makeup primer under your foundation to keep a matte complexion and avoid the extra shine from the camera flash.
Whiten your teeth
White teeth often improve your look and make you feel more confident so that you can flash your radiant smile all day. If you don’t want to get professional teeth whitening done, try whitening strips. However, for better and longer lasting effects, get professional cleaning done to remove plaque before beginning a whitening treatment. Also, use a toothpaste for sensitive teeth for two days before using the strips.
Get a manicure
You will obviously want to take a picture of your wedding ring. And of course, you want your fingers to look pretty with that rock on! So if you’re self-conscious about your nails treat yourself to a manicure before the big day.
Research your wedding photographer
Do not forget to ask your wedding photographer for links to their best photography sessions. This will give you a good idea of what to expect for your wedding photos.
Decide on a location
It is important to find a place where both you and your partner feel comfortable and that reflects the love you have for each other. When researching locations for wedding photos, make sure that you're allowed to take photos there without requiring a permit. Most often, permits put a constraint on how much time you can spend in a certain place, possibly affecting your photos.
During the Big Day
Make your eyes appear larger
Lean your chin and neck slightly toward the camera. Look up and raise your eyebrows to make your eyes appear larger.
Don't press your arms against your body
Leave a tiny gap between your body and your arms. This not only makes your arms look smaller but defines your waistline too, which in turn makes your torso appear slimmer.
Hold the bouquet at your hip
To avoid looking like you're hiding behind your bouquet or blocking your wedding gown, keep your forearm at a 45-degree angle to make sure that your body looks both lean and long.
Elongate your neck
You can get a better photo by elongating your neck. Lower your shoulder toward the camera and lift your chin up.
Try the red-carpet pose
Angle your body towards the camera so that you're not getting photographed straight on. Put your weight on your back foot and smile. You can practice various versions to see what works best for you. Also if you feel you have a good side, use it!
Flash a beautiful smile
It is important to connect and engage with the camera in order to get good wedding photos. It doesn't matter if you show your teeth or not while smiling. Just think about the new memories you're making with your loved one and a smile will automatically appear on your face!
Professional Wedding Photos
Are you looking for a professional wedding photographer to capture your special day? Lee Hawley is a highly recommended photographer who will help you create the perfect wedding photos for your big day. Get in touch to see how he can help you.