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PHOTOGRAPHY GUIDELINES

Welcome to the Flower & Oak team! As a valued member of our photography team, you play a crucial role in capturing the timeless moments that define a couple's wedding day. This guide is designed to ensure consistency, professionalism, and excellence in every wedding we photograph.

Below, you will find four recent galleries completed by Flower & Oak. These galleries showcase the style, composition, and level of consistency we expect from every wedding we capture.

1. Professional Expectations

  • Punctuality: Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled start time to allow for setup and preparation.

  • Dress Code: Dress professionally, blending in with wedding guests. Black or neutral tones are preferred unless otherwise specified.

  • Communication: Maintain open and clear communication with the couple, other team members, and vendors. Be polite, approachable, and respectful at all times.

  • Discretion: Capture moments candidly without being intrusive. Be mindful of sacred or sensitive ceremonies.

2. Equipment Requirements

  • Cameras: Full-frame DSLR or mirrorless cameras capable of shooting in RAW, with dual memory card slots for simultaneous recording.

  • Lenses: A versatile range including a 24-70mm f/2.8, 70-200mm f/2.8, and a fast prime lens (e.g., 35mm or 50mm f/1.4).

  • Backup Gear: Always bring backup cameras, lenses, batteries, and memory cards.

  • Lighting: On-camera flash and off-camera lighting setups for low-light situations.

3. Photography Style and Approach

  • Natural Light Preference: Utilize natural light whenever possible to maintain a timeless, classic look.

  • Posed vs. Candid: Balance posed portraits with genuine, candid moments. Focus on storytelling through emotion and interaction.

  • Composition: Pay attention to framing, leading lines, and background distractions. Keep compositions clean and intentional.

  • Detail Shots: Capture details such as rings, invitations, décor, floral arrangements, and attire.

  • Dynamic Shooting: Be dynamic in your approach—capture details and people from different perspectives. Shoot close-ups, wide shots, portrait, and landscape orientations to provide variety.

4. Key Moments to Capture

  • Pre-Ceremony:

  • Bride and groom preparations

  • Detail shots (dress, shoes, jewelry, invitations)

  • Candid moments with bridal party and family

  • Ceremony:

  • Processional and recessional

  • Vows, ring exchange, first kiss

  • Reactions from guests and family

  • Wide, medium, and close-up shots

  • Post-Ceremony:

  • Family formal portraits

  • Bridal party portraits

  • Couple portraits with creative compositions

  • Reception:

  • Venue and décor details

  • Grand entrance, first dance, speeches, cake cutting, bouquet/garter toss

  • Candid dancing and guest interactions

  • Night shots if applicable

 

5. Workflow and File Management

  • Shooting Format: Always shoot in RAW for maximum editing flexibility.

  • Backup Protocol: Backup files to an external hard drive immediately after the event.

  • Delivery: Upload images to the designated cloud storage within 48 hours post-event.

  • Review: Thoroughly review the itinerary and the editing checklist provided by Flower & Oak to ensure comprehensive coverage and adherence to quality standards.

6. Client Interaction

  • Pre-Wedding: Review the itinerary, special requests, and shot list provided.

  • During the Wedding: Be attentive to the couple’s needs without being overbearing.

  • Post-Wedding: Avoid direct communication with the client about edits or delivery timelines unless instructed.

7. Team Collaboration

  • Coordination: Work seamlessly with videographers and other team members.

  • Respect: Share space courteously, ensuring both photo and video teams get their necessary shots.

  • Support: Help team members when needed, fostering a positive work environment.

8. Code of Conduct

  • Professionalism: Refrain from using personal phones during working hours unless necessary for work-related tasks.

  • Sobriety: Do not consume alcohol during events.

  • Conflict Resolution: Address any issues discreetly and professionally. Contact management if assistance is needed.

9. Continuous Improvement

  • Feedback: Be open to constructive feedback and strive for continuous growth.

  • Education: Stay updated with photography trends and techniques to enhance your skills.

10. Image Delivery Requirements

  • Minimum Image Count: Photographers are required to capture and deliver a minimum number of high-quality images based on the event coverage:

  • Creative Photography (6 hours): Aim for at least 300 images.

  • Cinematic Photography (8 hours): Aim for at least 600 images.

  • Premiere Photography (10 hours with two photographers): Aim for at least 800 images. This ensures comprehensive coverage and consistency for every event.

Thank you for being an integral part of the Flower & Oak team. Your dedication, creativity, and professionalism help us deliver exceptional experiences to our clients. Let’s continue to create beautiful memories together.

© 2025 by Flower + Oak LLC: All Rights Reserved

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