Well, first of all lets define both terms. Direction is easy...I tell the members of the bridal parties where to stand, and what to do to take advantage of the best backround and lighting, as well as the feeling I'm looking for in the photo. I want to cover all the bases by doing the traditional photos in combination with the animated version of the same group. Expression is the key element in knowing when to record the image. My belief is that 10-20 years down my clients will appreciate the union of facial recognition in combination with expressions that bring out the personalities of all the important people in the wedding. After 30+ years of photographing weddings I am aware of the fact that I don't have the luxury of waiting for my bridal party to strike that perfect look. I have to make it happen! One of the key elements in direction is knowing every bridesmaids and groomsmen's first name.

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Many of the bridal couples that I meet with have the idea of not seeing each other prior to the ceremony. The bride typically expresses the idea of the groom seeing her for the first time as
she walks down the aisle. Well that would be great if there was a 2-3 hour break before the reception!

The majority of the "typical local weddings" that I photograph have a bridal party of 8-10 and several hundred guests at the reception which usually follows closely in time after the ceremony.

So when do we do all those beautiful portraits of the bride and groom together and with all the other members of the bridal party and family? Let's use logic! At some point in the day Harry will see Sally...it's a question of when! My solution is a "First Meeting Scene" Picture this, I put the groom in a position with his back to the approaching bride. When the bride is within 8-10 feet. I tell Harry to turn around. I capture his expression as well as the brides in one shot. They come together and Harry actually has a chance to tell Sally how beautiful she looks! After all it's not ceremony time yet!

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