The food is eaten, the decorations come down and the gown goes into storage. What remains are the pictures and the video. Couples who think about their photos in advance, and tell their photographer what matters to them, end up with images they will still want to look at in thirty years.
Getting-ready pictures
Some of the most natural photographs are taken before the ceremony. The bride having her make-up done, her mother fastening her jewellery, the groom adjusting his tie, the bridesmaids laughing in their robes. These pictures show the nerves and excitement of the morning, which formal portraits cannot.
Ask the photographer to capture details too: the rings, the shoes, the invitation, the kente or lace laid out before dressing. A tidy room with good window light makes a big difference, so clear the clutter before the photographer arrives.
Traditional engagement photos
The engagement is full of moments worth capturing: the families greeting each other, the items being presented, the search for the bride, the moment she accepts the drinks and the elders’ blessings. Agree with your photographer in advance that these moments come first, ahead of posed portraits.
Family group photos are a big part of Ghanaian and Nigerian engagements. Give the photographer a list of groups, such as both sets of parents, the bride’s siblings and the groom’s uncles, and ask a relative who knows everyone to call people into place.
Church and ceremony moments
In church, the key pictures are the bride’s entrance, the groom’s face as he sees her, the vows, the exchange of rings, the kiss, the signing of the register and the walk back down the aisle as a married couple. Check the church’s rules on photography before the day, since some ministers restrict where photographers can stand. Many churches are dim inside and some do not allow flash during the vows, so a photographer who is comfortable with low light is worth paying for.
Couple portraits and poses
Most couples feel awkward posing. Good photographers guide them into simple, natural poses: walking hand in hand, the bride looking back over her shoulder, foreheads touching, the groom whispering something that makes her laugh, a close-up of joined hands showing the rings. Movement looks better than stiff standing.
Build in time for portraits. Twenty to thirty minutes between the church and the reception is usually enough for a strong set of couple pictures, as long as the bridal party is not delayed.
Choosing the background
The background shapes the picture. Gardens, beaches, old buildings, plain walls and venues with good architecture make strong settings. In Accra, couples use parks, hotel gardens, beaches and historic buildings for portraits.
Light matters most. Harsh midday sun creates dark shadows on faces; the softer light of late afternoon flatters everyone. If your portraits must be taken at midday, look for open shade. For the reception, a well-lit photo backdrop with the couple’s names or colours gives guests a place for pictures and keeps the dance floor free.
The reception and the video
At the reception, the must-have moments are the grand entrance, the first dance, the cake cutting, the toasts and guests spraying money. Candid shots of guests dancing often become favourites.
If you have a videographer, discuss the style: a short edited film of the best moments, a full-length video of the ceremony and speeches, or both. Ask to see complete wedding films they have made, rather than only their trailers. And make sure someone gives the photographer and videographer food: they will work for twelve hours or more, and a hungry crew misses moments.
