Behind the Scenes: A Day in the Life of a Wedding Photographer
Ever wondered what really goes on behind the lens at your wedding? As a Wellington-based wedding photographer, my job is much more than simply clicking a shutter. It’s about capturing your unique love story, preserving those fleeting emotional moments, and ensuring your big day is documented beautifully and authentically. Let me take you behind the scenes with a glimpse into a typical wedding photography day.
Early Preparations: Setting the Tone
My day usually kicks off early, well before the ceremony starts. Coffee in hand (because Wellington mornings absolutely call for a fresh flat white!), I double-check my gear, batteries, lenses, memory cards, and backups. Preparation is essential—there’s no room for error on such an important day.
Arriving at the venue early allows me to scout the area again, even if it’s a location I know well, like the stunning gardens at Wellington Botanic Garden or the rugged beauty of Makara Beach. Lighting conditions can change quickly, especially with Wellington’s dynamic weather, so being ready to adapt ensures I can capture stunning images throughout the day.
Capturing the Excitement: Getting Ready Shots
One of my favourite parts of a wedding day is documenting the excitement and nervous anticipation as everyone gets ready. Whether it’s the bride carefully stepping into her dress, the groom adjusting his tie, or the bridesmaids sharing laughter and bubbly, these intimate moments tell an authentic story of emotions that are impossible to replicate.
My style is relaxed and unobtrusive, blending into the environment to capture candid, natural moments. I gently offer guidance when needed, maybe suggesting a slight turn towards the natural window light or capturing a reflection in the mirror. The magic is always there, and it’s my privilege to find it.
The Ceremony: Moments That Matter
When the ceremony begins, my role shifts to capturing the big moments and the subtle details. Whether it’s a traditional church wedding in central Wellington or a relaxed backyard ceremony in the Wairarapa, each ceremony is unique and deeply personal.
I focus on the couple’s expressions, the heartfelt vows, and the reactions of family and friends. That tear in the groom’s eye as the bride walks down the aisle, the proud smile from parents, or the bride and groom sharing a whispered joke—these are the authentic moments you’ll cherish forever.
I work discreetly, using various lenses to capture different perspectives without distracting from the ceremony itself. My goal is to ensure you can fully immerse yourself in the moment, confident that every emotion-filled detail is being beautifully documented.
Portrait Session: Celebrating Your Love Story
After the ceremony and congratulations, most couples opt for a relaxed portrait session. Wellington and its surrounds offer stunning locations—be it the rugged coastline at Red Rocks, the elegance of Old St Paul’s, or the urban charm of Cuba Street. I aim to create an environment where you feel comfortable, natural, and free to be yourselves.
I’ll gently guide you through poses, but my approach is always relaxed and fun. This ensures your personalities shine through, resulting in images that genuinely reflect you as a couple. Candid laughter, stolen glances, and quiet embraces are the ingredients for timeless wedding portraits.
Reception: Capturing the Celebration
As the day transitions into evening, my job isn’t done just yet. The reception brings new energy, laughter, and celebration. From heartfelt speeches at the head table and the cutting of your wedding cake to those spontaneous dance moves from Uncle Dave, I’m there to capture it all!
Low lighting at receptions often presents a unique challenge, which is why my experience and technical skill in natural light and flash photography become invaluable. I use subtle, professional lighting techniques to document the warmth and vibrancy of your reception, ensuring every moment feels genuine and atmospheric.
Wrapping Up the Day: Preserving Memories
At the end of the day, I take a moment to thank the couple and their family for including me in their special celebration. Back at my home studio, I meticulously back up your precious images, ensuring they’re safe and secure.
Over the following weeks, I thoughtfully edit and curate your photos, enhancing their natural beauty and ensuring you receive a cohesive, stunning representation of your day. To me, editing is an art form, and I invest significant time and care into perfecting each image.
Capturing Your Story, Beautifully Told
Being a wedding photographer in Wellington is a privilege—a chance to be part of people’s most important life moments and to document them with skill, care, and authenticity. Every wedding brings new stories, new emotions, and new friendships. It’s a role I cherish deeply.
If you’re planning your upcoming wedding in Wellington or anywhere in New Zealand, I would love to discuss how we can beautifully capture your unique love story together. After all, documenting your special day isn’t just my job—it’s my passion.
