The special charm of an intimate wedding can’t be duplicated.Below southern belle and wedding photographer Latoya Dixon gives tips on using a photographer for smaller weddings. Her featured photography shows a beautiful southern couple and their perfectly intimate ceremony.
Tell your Story
A smaller, more intimate wedding usually comes with a shorter timeline. For this reason, it is imperative to effectively communicate your love story to your photographer during the consultation. With your unique journey in mind, they are able to capture the significant, intimate details that will be incorporated in your wedding day, such as heirlooms, “something old, something new”, or important family dynamics.
Discuss your Timeline
During an intimate wedding, time is of the essence. It helps for your photographer to know when to be where. Make a list with times including the bridal prep, groom prep, ceremony time, etc.
Share Names of Family Members and Vendors
 You’ve made your day unique by only inviting your closest loved ones. Let your photographer know who’s in the wedding, special groups on the guest list (such as sorority/fraternity members, college friends), and which vendors you’ve invited. Getting to know these individuals on a first name basis will help out your photographer tremendously.
Special Shots
Don’t be afraid to ask your photographer for shots with special guests who come to share in your day. Ideally, if you know that these individuals will be in attendance, let your photographer know before the wedding so that they make note of it. Your day will go by fast, so you’ll want to be sure to capture a moment with them and thank them for attending later.
Have Fun
A photographer’s job is to document one of the joyous occasions in your life. The more you relax, have fun, and enjoy the company of your spouse-to-be, the better your happiness reflects in your photos. It’s your day! Own it. Look beautiful. Smile boldly. Laugh often.