In this article we offer tips and suggestions as to how to photograph a wedding reception and achieve professional looking results.

How to Photograph a Wedding Reception - Tip #1 - Shadow the Bride and Groom

Brides will often ask, "Where will you be during the reception?". I tell her that I like to 'shadow' the bride and groom. Basically, follow them around and capture spontaneous, candid moments. I encourage them not to look at the camera, just enjoy their party and guests. I don't like cheesy, posed pictures during this time. Instead, I want to capture the bride and groom and what they are naturally doing. During this 'shadow' time, you can capture wonderful images of the couple laughing, hugging and talking with their guests. When they are interacting with their guests, it's not all smiles so time your images for when the couple has reacted to something funny or is pleased to see a guest. When the couple looks back on their wedding photos, they will see what a wonderful time they had.

How to Photography a Wedding Reception - Tip #2 - Keep an Eye For the Important People

While I'm shadowing the bride and groom, I'm always on the look out for other great moments - the type that the bride and groom won't normally see because they are preoccupied with a guest. I love when a bride sees her wedding photos and comments, "I didn't even see that!" That's our job folks - to capture everything. I'm especially looking for moments with the important people - the family or wedding party. This could be a moment with the bride's grandma, holding one of her granddaughters. Or the mother and father of the groom holding hands. Any little thing. Special Note: If any of these important people are ailing, go out of your way to take a few extra photographs. Not so much that it's noticeable, but if it's a family member that you know won't be with the family for much longer, these images will be greatly treasured.

How to Photograph a Wedding Reception - Tip #3 - Keep an Eye on the Sky

If you have an outdoor reception or one where you can step outside for a few photos, keep an eye out for sunset. I like to talk to the bride and groom about this possibility before the wedding. That way they are not surprised when I ask them to leave their reception for a few minutes for more photos. Have the couple bring their wine or champagne glasses with them. Photos of them walking, holding hands or sitting on a cute bench, toasting can be beautiful. These photos also work well as a closing shot on the last page of the bridal album.

When considering how to photograph a wedding reception, keep in mind these simple yet effective tips. There are so many wonderful moments at a wedding reception. Try to capture as many as you can. The more weddings you photograph, the more you'll be able to instinctively predict these moments. Best of luck!