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How I’m Preparing for my First Wedding as a Second Shooter

I cannot believe how fast this year is flying by. In just a few short days, we will already be in June!! Which means two things:

  1. My business is hitting 6 months of growth.
  2. Wedding season is finally upon me!

I shared with my followers, especially on Instagram, that my goal for 2019 was to shoot my very first wedding before the year was up, even if only as a second shooter, even if it was only one wedding. Within less than three months of starting my business, I was able to accomplish that goal by signing on as a second shooter with an old college roommate of mine, Alyssa Hurley!

Just when I thought my dream came true, shortly after booking with Alyssa, I was able to book not one, but THREE additional weddings as a second shooter with Gracie Withers Photography here in northern Virginia! And another with Chelsea Schaefer!!

Later on, I booked my very first wedding as the solo photographer with a client in Bedford, VA!!

Not even six months in, God has blessed me with a total of six weddings this summer. I am blown away, but also very nervous. I feel the weight of the responsibility photographing a wedding holds. You are in charge of preserving and making permanent representations of one of the happiest days in a couple’s life together! And there are NO do-overs.

My very first wedding is THIS weekend… June 1! I am shooting alongside Gracie Withers, and I am so excited to learn from her and serve her and the couple she booked. I have only a few days to prepare myself, and if you are reading this as a first-time wedding photographer, or a photographer still waiting to shoot that first wedding day, here are all the ways I’m prepping myself for Saturday:

  1. Refresh my memory! I have so many awesome education resources I’ve been consuming for the last six months, thanks to Katelyn James Photography’s courses and monthly KJ All Access videos. This week, I am rewatching some of those more complex lessons and reviewing my notes to refresh my brain — kind of like studying for a big exam!
  2. Gather, charge, and clean my gear. I have all of my lenses packed into my camera bag, along with the memory cards, extra battery, car port battery charger, etc. I’m cleaning my lenses and camera, and making sure they are in top shape for the day.
  3. Pick my outfit! Believe it or not, this is something photographers actually have to think about. I didn’t think it was a big priority as to what you wore until I began coming across blog posts about it. There are different mindsets in the industry around what a photographer should wear to a wedding day, but I choose to believe that photographers should:

    a. Dress for the kind of wedding you want to shoot. For me, that’s higher end weddings, so I’m naturally going to look professional, classic, and a little more dressed up. Maybe a plain dress with a cute necklace or scarf to accessorize.

    b. Blend in, and let the bride stand out. This means muted colors, solid colors, or prints that are not too bold or distracting. It also means wearing simple pieces, like a dress without too many ruffles or details, or a plain jumpsuit.

    c. Be comfortable! Wedding days are long hours, plus add the summer heat for most weddings. I have a few pieces in my closet that I know are light, flexible, and comfortable to help me get through the day.

    d. Be modest. As the photographer, you’re going to be moving around a lot to get the right angles and perspectives. You’ll squat low for some shots, and if you’re shorter like I am (my 5’4″ gals and under… where you at?!) you’ll probably end up climbing on top of a picnic table, chair, bench, or rock at some point in the day. Choose tops cut not too low and skirts cut not too short, and you’re golden.

  4. Study my primary shooter’s Instagram feed and website. While I am hoping to get a thick portfolio of images to showcase my own work and creativity, ultimately, I know that my job is to serve and assist the primary shooter and her couple. I am a temporary employee of her brand, and I want to make sure my images reflect her style, because that’s what the bride and groom are expecting and it sets her up for success!
  5. Get PLENTY of sleep, and drink plenty of water. The week before my first wedding, I’ve tried drinking more water, eating better, and getting more sleep to make sure I have a healthy habit and good energy boost for the long day ahead of me. I’ll also go shopping for some snacks to keep me energized on the wedding day, and bring a bottle of water that I can clip to my camera bag to stay hydrated and focused.

There’s so much on my to-do list before this wedding, and I am sure after it is over, I will have a better idea of what helped and what I wish I did instead. All the nerves are definitely there, but they are serving as motivation to be as prepared as I can and enjoy this monumental moment of shooting my first wedding.

Wish me luck, guys!! I’ll update you how it went on my social media channels, and maybe even share more for next week’s blog! And, if you are a photographer looking for a second shooter in the D.C., Virginia, Maryland area, please reach out!

Check back here every Tuesday for new content, and find me on Instagram at @emilynicole_photos, or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/EmNicolePhotos.

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Planning your wedding in Savannah, Georgia, provides you with so many options in a city full of Southern charm, historic elegance, and breathtaking low-country beauty. Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic garden ceremony, a grand ballroom reception, or something in between, Savannah seems to have wedding venues for every taste. As a Georgia wedding photographer, I’ve done the research so you don’t have to.

Savannah wedding venues, list of the best venues from a SAV wedding photographer who shoots light and airy style wedding photos | side by side images of Spanish moss at a Savannah wedding venue

Why You Should Consider Savannah Wedding Venues

Savannah is a city unlike any other. With its oak-lined streets, historic homes, and timeless coastal views, it’s no surprise that couples flock here to tie the knot. Savannah wedding venues offer something for everyone—from intimate settings surrounded by nature to grand estates steeped in history. Plus, its mild climate makes it a perfect choice for weddings year-round.

Top Savannah Wedding Venues to Consider

Hotel Bardo (formerly, The Mansion on Forsyth Park)

For couples seeking a venue that provides a fun vintage aesthetic amidst classic Savannah landmarks, Hotel Bardo is one of Savannah’s crown jewels. This venue combines historic charm with mid-century modern sophistication, offering everything from intimate indoor spaces to a picturesque garden courtyard.

Wormsloe Historic Site

For those who want to embrace Savannah’s natural beauty, Wormsloe Historic Site provides one of the most iconic backdrops in the city. The long driveway lined with towering live oaks draped in Spanish moss is a bride’s dream. It’s a serene, ethereal setting perfect for a romantic outdoor ceremony.

The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa

If waterfront views are your vibe, The Westin Savannah Harbor offers a stunning riverside backdrop. With expansive lawns overlooking the Savannah River, this venue blends elegance and nature seamlessly. Plus, the convenience of on-site accommodations makes it ideal for your out-of-town guests.

The Savannah Yacht Club

Couples who envision a sophisticated coastal wedding will fall in love with The Savannah Yacht Club. This venue offers sweeping views of the water, nautical charm, and an air of exclusivity. It’s perfect for smaller, more intimate weddings or grand celebrations with a coastal flair.

Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum

For history buffs and lovers of unique spaces, the Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum is a standout option. This venue features a lush garden courtyard and historic exhibits that add personality and charm to your wedding. The combination of indoor and outdoor spaces offers flexibility for your big day.

Bethesda Academy

Bethesda Academy boasts one of Savannah’s most stunning natural landscapes, featuring majestic oak trees draped in Spanish moss and rolling green fields. Its historic chapel and beautiful outdoor spaces create a dreamy, intimate setting perfect for a romantic Low-Country-inspired wedding.

The Mackey House

Tucked away in a private estate surrounded by nature, The Mackey House is a venue straight out of a fairytale. With a grand Southern-style mansion, lush gardens, and a peaceful lake, it’s the perfect place for an outdoor wedding full of whimsy and charm.

The Ford Field & River Club

Located just outside Savannah in Richmond Hill, this venue exudes refined Southern elegance. The sprawling estate features scenic views of the Ogeechee River, romantic oak groves, and luxurious accommodations, making it a perfect choice for an intimate yet grand wedding experience.

The Harper Fowlkes House

The Harper Fowlkes House is a historic and elegant mansion nestled in the heart of Savannah’s historic district. With its Greek Revival architecture, sweeping staircase, and lush gardens, this venue exudes timeless sophistication and charm. The courtyard garden is ideal for an intimate outdoor ceremony or cocktail hour, while the mansion’s interior offers a beautifully preserved space for receptions with intricate details like antique furnishings and grand windows.

The Kehoe House

The Kehoe House is a stunning, historic mansion located in the heart of Savannah’s Historic District. Built in 1892, this stately home is an exquisite example of Renaissance Revival architecture. Known for its ornate ironwork, grand interiors, and warm Southern hospitality, the Kehoe House is ideal for couples seeking a venue with timeless elegance and charm.

Savannah wedding venues, list of the best venues from a SAV wedding photographer who shoots light and airy style wedding photos | side by side photos, left side image shows a long rectangle table set for a wedding reception amidst live oak trees draped with Spanish moss; right side photo shows a set of gold wedding rings next to a strand of Spanish moss

Tips for Choosing Between These Savannah Wedding Venues

  1. Consider Your Guest List Size
    Savannah wedding venues come in all shapes and sizes. From intimate gardens to sprawling estates, ensure the venue you choose comfortably accommodates your guest list.
  2. Think About Your Wedding Style
    Your venue should reflect your wedding vision. Are you dreaming of timeless elegance, coastal charm, or a whimsical outdoor affair? Savannah has venues that can bring any aesthetic to life, but the wrong venue can make your details and decor appear out of place. Make the most of that investment (and wedding photos) by choosing a venue that harmonizes with your style!
  3. Factor in Logistics
    From transportation to accommodations, Savannah is known for its hospitality, but it’s wise to consider the proximity of your venue to hotels and local attractions for your guests’ convenience. Consider traffic, city events on or around your wedding day that may cause disruption, and other logistics your guests may face. A wedding planner will help you navigate all the unexpected challenges with ease!
  4. Book Early
    Savannah is a popular wedding destination, especially in spring and fall. To secure your dream venue, book your Savannah wedding venue as early as possible! Then secure primary vendors on your list such as photographer, videographer, planner (if you don’t yet have one) and more.
Savannah wedding venues, list of the best venues from a SAV wedding photographer who shoots light and airy style wedding photos | photo shows a wedding couple kissing under the Spanish moss, wearing a light grey linen suit (groom) and an off-the-shoulder satin wedding gown (bride)

Making the Most of Savannah Wedding Venues

Choosing one of Savannah’s stunning wedding venues is just the beginning. Personalize your celebration with touches that reflect your interests and love story. Whether it’s incorporating local cuisine like shrimp and grits, offering your guests trolley rides through the historic district, or having your photos taken under the iconic Spanish moss, Savannah is full of ways to make your wedding day an unforgettable experience for all.

Planning a wedding is no small task, but having a photographer who knows and loves the charm of Savannah can make all the difference.

I specialize in creating artful images out of your favorite memories. Booking me ensures you’ll have a wedding gallery that represents the essence of your love and legacy in every image. Learn more about my services and approach here.

If you’re considering a wedding in Savannah, I’d love to capture every moment for you. Let’s connect and discuss how I can create timeless art from your most cherished memories.

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