How I play guest bingo

Weddings are expensive. We all know it. And we also know why they are expensive because sooo much goes into them! And one of your biggest expenses is your venue with your catering. At almost all venues you’re paying per head. This means that those people who are there are very very important to you which is why I make sure to capture every single guest at least once, other than in the formal photos. I want to capture them having fun and loving on you (and maybe having a boogie on the dancefloor a few drinks in) and I have a few tried and true methods for doing just that.

Capture your guests arriving

If time allows, I capture them as they walk in and find their seats. The air is full of anticipation and whispers about what they think the couple is going to be wearing and everyone is still wearing their heels haha. Lots of smiles and happiness here and it’s easy to spot which families and couples came together as they all sit together (which makes it easier for me later in the evening).

Congratulation hugs

This is one of my favourites. Before the ceremony, I usually chat with the celebrant and get them to encourage guests to go up to give the couple big hugs after they’ve made their way down the aisle. Then I plant myself behind the couple, with their backs facing me so that I get to see guest faces as they share their love with the newlyweds. So many happy tears captured during those moments and big smiles.

Reception tour

During your reception, I make a point of going around to those couples and family groups I saw earlier in the evening and asking them if they’d like a photo together. It isn’t often you’re all dressed up in your finest gear with a professional to take your photo so I include this as part of my reception cover. And of course, I ask around to see if anyone else wants photos together and I encourage them to find me later if their group isn’t all together at the time.

Dancefloor

This one is obvious. I am out on that dancefloor with everyone else, shaking my tail feather and taking photos of your guests having the best time and the photos are pretty fun too. So if your guests are the partying type then you’ll be getting some pretty great candids in your gallery.

Super fun bonus tip - the serious + dance guest photos

Now this is SUPER duper fun. I grab my couple towards the end of the reception and we make our way around the guests and do a quick “nice” photo of the group and then I yell “dance dance dance” and they have to do a silly dance and then we quickly move on to the next group. It’s like speed dating (dancing?) This makes for some pretty epic photos as everyone is feeling pretty happy at this point in the evening. Although these photos might not be appropriate to share with your Nanna.

Until next time lovers x