How to Create the Perfect Wedding Day Itinerary: A Step-by-Step Guide

Your wedding day is one of the most important and memorable days of your life, but it can also feel overwhelming. To ensure everything runs smoothly and you can enjoy the celebration without stress, a well-organized itinerary is key. A clear timeline helps everyone know where they need to be and when, reducing confusion and making sure the day flows seamlessly.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to create the perfect wedding day itinerary.

1. Start with the Basics

Before diving into the details, make sure to gather some key information to set the foundation for your wedding day timeline:

• Venue times: Confirm the start and end times with all your venues (ceremony, reception, etc.).

• Vendors’ schedules: Contact your vendors (photographer, videographer, caterer, DJ, etc.) to know their arrival times and any specific needs.

• Bridal party availability: Coordinate with your bridal party members to ensure they’re available for the pre-wedding preparations and throughout the event.

• Some of my favourite vendors but not limited to! Club Roma, Pillar and Post, Chateau Des Charmes, White Oaks

Once you have these details, you can start sketching out the general flow of your day.

2. Create a Morning Routine (Pre-Ceremony)

The morning of your wedding day is all about preparation, and timing is crucial to avoid feeling rushed. Here’s how you can organize it:

• Hair and makeup (Start early!) a couple of my favourite vendors Beyoutiful Brides, The Bridal Glam Co, : Typically, bridal hair and makeup takes several hours. Start this process early so everyone is ready on time. If you have a large bridal party, consider hiring additional stylists to speed things up.

• Breakfast/Brunch: Don’t skip breakfast! Plan for a light, easy meal to fuel you for the day ahead.

• Getting dressed: Plan for extra time to get into your wedding attire, especially if you have a dress that requires assistance.

• Photography prep shots: The photographer may want to capture candid moments of you getting ready. Allow 30-45 minutes for this before the ceremony.

3. Ceremony Timeline

The ceremony is the heart of your wedding day, and it’s important to stick to a precise schedule here to ensure everything runs on time.

• Guest arrival: Plan for guests to arrive about 20-30 minutes before the ceremony starts, allowing them time to find their seats and settle in.

• Processional: The processional typically begins with the wedding party walking down the aisle. The timing of this will depend on how many people are involved in the bridal party and if there’s live music.

• Ceremony duration: A typical ceremony lasts anywhere from 20 to 30 minutes. Be sure to discuss the length with your officiant to plan the next steps accordingly.

• Post-ceremony photos: After the ceremony, your photographer will likely want to capture some family and wedding party portraits. These can take anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour.

4. Cocktail Hour

After the ceremony, guests will typically head to the cocktail hour while you and your bridal party take photos. This is a great time to relax a bit before the reception, but you’ll want to ensure it’s planned out efficiently.

• Guest arrival: Your guests will likely be waiting at the venue during this time. Ensure drinks and hors d’oeuvres are available promptly.

• Photography: Be mindful of how much time you need for formal photos with family and the bridal party. Aim to keep this within an hour, if possible, so you can join your guests for part of the cocktail hour.

5. Reception Timeline

The reception is where the real fun begins! Here’s how to structure it so the night flows smoothly:

• Grand entrance: The newlyweds make their grand entrance into the reception. This is a great moment to have the DJ or emcee announce your arrival and hype up the crowd.

• First dance: Plan your first dance right after the grand entrance. It’s typically one of the most emotional moments of the night.

• Dinner service: Once the first dance is completed, dinner is typically served. If you have a plated dinner, ensure the catering staff is ready to serve on time. If it’s a buffet, it’s good to have a plan for when guests should begin serving themselves.

• Toasts and speeches: Toasts typically come right after dinner. Ensure your best man, maid of honor, and anyone else giving speeches are aware of when they’re expected to speak.

• Dancing and Entertainment: After dinner and speeches, it’s time to let loose! The DJ or band can open the dance floor, and you can plan for special dances like the father-daughter or mother-son dance if you’d like.

• Cake cutting (My favourite cake artist: Cake by Cheryl): The cake cutting usually takes place after the dancing has begun, and it’s often followed by dessert or coffee service.

• Bouquet and garter toss (Florist: Bellas and Blooms) : If you’re doing the bouquet toss and garter toss, schedule this before the party gets into full swing. Some couples skip this tradition, but if you want to include it, it’s best to have it earlier in the evening.

6. Ending the Night

Your wedding may last well into the night, but don’t forget to wrap things up in a way that feels memorable for everyone.

• Last dance: Schedule one final, magical moment—your last dance as newlyweds. This is often a slow, romantic moment to close out the night.

• Grand exit: Whether you’re leaving in a car, on foot, or with a fun exit like sparklers or bubbles, make sure your grand exit is well-timed for a dramatic end.

7. Build in Buffer Time

One of the most important aspects of creating your wedding day itinerary is leaving extra time between events. Delays are inevitable, so having buffer time can save you from rushing or stressing. A 15-20 minute buffer between key moments will give you flexibility and allow everyone to stay relaxed.

8. Share the Itinerary

Once you have your itinerary in place, share it with all key people involved in the wedding: your bridal party, vendors, and any family members helping to coordinate. You’ll also want to make sure your officiant and photographer have a copy of the timeline to stay on track.

Sample Wedding Day Itinerary

Morning (Pre-Ceremony)

• 8:00 AM: Hair and makeup for bride and bridal party

• 9:00 AM: Breakfast/Brunch

• 10:00 AM: Getting dressed (bride and bridal party)

• 10:30 AM: Photographer captures pre-wedding moments

• 12:00 PM: Travel to ceremony venue

Ceremony

• 1:00 PM: Guest arrival

• 1:30 PM: Ceremony begins

• 2:00 PM: Ceremony ends, family & wedding party photos

Cocktail Hour

• 2:30 PM: Cocktail hour begins for guests

• 3:30 PM: Wedding party completes photos

Reception

• 4:00 PM: Grand entrance

• 4:15 PM: First dance

• 4:30 PM: Dinner served

• 5:30 PM: Speeches and toasts

• 6:00 PM: Dancing begins

• 7:30 PM: Cake cutting

• 8:00 PM: Bouquet and garter toss

• 9:00 PM: Open dance floor continues

Ending the Night

• 10:45 PM: Last dance

• 11:00 PM: Grand exit

Conclusion

A well-thought-out wedding day itinerary ensures that everything runs smoothly, so you can focus on what truly matters—celebrating your love and enjoying the company of your friends and family. Take time to plan ahead, build in flexibility, and communicate with everyone involved. A little extra planning now will allow you to relax and truly savor every moment on your big day.

Woodbourne Inn in Niagara-on-the-Lake

Nestled in the heart of Niagara-on-the-Lake, amidst the lush vineyards and historic charm, lies a hidden gem where love stories come to life in the most enchanting way: Woodbourne Inn. Steeped in history and exuding timeless elegance, Woodbourne Inn stands as a quintessential destination for couples seeking a wedding venue that embodies both sophistication and romance.

With its origins dating back to the early 19th century, Woodbourne Inn boasts a rich history that adds a touch of magic to every celebration hosted within its walls. Originally built as a private residence, the inn has been meticulously restored to preserve its historic grandeur while offering modern comforts and amenities. From the study to the expansive, airy lounge, every room in the inn exudes beauty and charm.

From the moment you step onto the grounds of Woodbourne Inn, you are greeted by manicured gardens, towering trees, and the tranquil ambiance that sets the stage for a picture-perfect wedding day. The inn's elegant architecture and graceful interiors provide a stunning backdrop for ceremonies, receptions, and photographs that will be cherished for a lifetime. As a wedding photographer in the Niagara region, I am always looking keeping an eye out for local treasures, and the Inn provides so many great backdrops for brides, grooms, family, and friends and I couldn’t wait to write about it!

At Woodbourne Inn, every wedding is as unique as the couple it celebrates. Whether you envision an intimate gathering or a grand affair, the dedicated team works closely with each couple to bring their vision to life. From customized décor to curated menus featuring locally sourced ingredients and wines from nearby vineyards, every detail is thoughtfully planned to exceed expectations (I can’t rave enough about the roasted nut medley created by the in house chef, Jen).

What truly sets weddings at Woodbourne Inn apart is the unparalleled level of service provided to couples and their guests. From the moment you begin planning your special day until the last guest departs, the experienced staff ensures that every aspect of your celebration is flawlessly executed. With attention to detail and a commitment to excellence, they create an atmosphere of warmth and hospitality that leaves a lasting impression on all who attend.

Beyond the enchanting confines of Woodbourne Inn, Niagara-on-the-Lake offers a plethora of attractions and activities for couples and their guests to enjoy. From wine tastings at award-winning wineries to leisurely strolls along the picturesque streets lined with boutiques and galleries, there is no shortage of ways to create cherished memories in this charming town.

As the sun sets over the rolling hills and vineyards of Niagara-on-the-Lake, couples exchange vows and embark on a journey of love and togetherness at Woodbourne Inn. With its historic allure, timeless elegance, and unmatched service, it is a place where fairy tales come to life and dreams become reality. For those seeking a wedding venue that embodies the essence of romance, Woodbourne Inn stands as a beacon of love and celebration.

If you are searching for a wedding venue in Niagara-on-the-Lake, I encourage you to visit Woodbourne Inn’s website, found here.

A tour of Woodbourne Inn in Niagara-on-the-Lake

The New Hernder Estates

Weddings are a special day for couples, and photography is an essential aspect of capturing those memories. One popular location for wedding photography was Hernder Estates. Founded in 1984 by Walt Hernder, a passionate winemaker, Hernder Estates quickly became a wedding hot spot. With its stunning vineyards, gardens, and architecture, the Estates offered couples a rustic yet charming setting for their event. 

As a wedding photographer, I had an abundance of natural light and stunning backdrops to work with - a perfect opportunity for creative shots. Couples could choose from several unique locations for their wedding ceremony, including the outdoor chapel, vineyard gazebo, and courtyard garden.  The estate's main building - with its exposed brick walls and high ceilings - was one of my go-to spots for indoor wedding photos.

Unfortunately, Hernder Estates was burned down in October 2021 - everything from the main building to its surrounding structures was gone. The backdrops of countless weddings were gone in the blink of an eye. It’s a day I’ll never forget.

While the Hernder Estates may no longer exist as we once knew it, its memory will live on through the thousands of photos taken there. From the “I do”s to the first dance, couples can look back on their most cherished memories in a beautifully unique location. I’m grateful to have captured such wonderful moments in a truly magical place, and although it saddens me that I cannot photograph the Hernder Estates again, I know I can look back on the photos and smile. The Hernder Estates will always hold a special place in my heart as one of my favourite locations to shoot.

For more inspiring wedding photography and wedding videography, you can visit my Instagram at www.instagram.com/etangphotography!

A Themed Wedding To Personalize Your Celebration

Your wedding day is undoubtedly a magical one, as you celebrate the union of love and commitment. Luckily, there are endless opportunities to host a beautiful wedding in the Niagara region. 

For couples looking to add a little fun to the day, themed weddings have become a popular choice. Travel through time with a ’20s-themed wedding, or take your guests to your favourite fantasy world to make the celebration even more exciting and uniquely yours.

Take Eric and Amber, for example, who held their wedding at Club Roma in St. Catharines (which you can view here) and had a marvellously spooktacular theme.

Choosing the right theme is the first step towards crafting an extraordinary wedding experience. Let your personalities and interests shine through by selecting a theme that holds a special place in your hearts. It could be inspired by a favourite era, movie, book, or even a shared passion like travel or a specific hobby. 

Eric and Amber both love the spookier side of things and they did a wonderful job of incorporating it into their celebration. Remember, the theme sets the tone for your entire wedding, so take the time to discover what truly resonates with both of you.

Your wedding theme should be evident from the moment your guests receive their invitations and save-the-date cards. Incorporate elements of the theme into the design, colours, and wording to give your guests a glimpse of what to expect. This will set the stage for excitement and anticipation, making them eagerly await your big day.

The next step is to transform your chosen venue into a magical wonderland that complements your theme. Whether it's a fairytale castle, a tropical paradise, a rustic barn, or a chic vintage setting, decorations play a significant role in bringing the theme to life. Pay attention to details like centrepieces, table settings, floral arrangements, and lighting to create a cohesive atmosphere.

Wedding attire is also one of the most enjoyable aspects of a themed wedding. Whether you opt for elegant Victorian dresses or superhero-inspired outfits, let your creativity shine! Encourage your guests to embrace the theme with dress code suggestions, and don't forget to add thematic accessories to complete the look. Eric opted for a patterned vest and dark suit to compliment the orange and black hues in Amber’s bouquet; a perfect example of themed attire coordination.

Eric & Amber’s First Look

The culinary experience can also be enhanced to match your wedding, by incorporating themed elements into your wedding menu. Work with your caterer to design a menu that reflects the theme, whether it's a traditional feast from a specific culture, a menu inspired by your favourite movie, or a creative fusion of flavours. Signature-themed cocktails can also add an extra touch of fun to the celebration.

Keep the excitement alive with entertainment that aligns with your theme. From live bands and DJs to interactive games and photo booths, there are endless possibilities to keep your guests entertained and engaged. Consider adding activities that tie into the theme, such as dance lessons for a vintage-themed wedding or a treasure hunt for a pirate-inspired celebration. The possibilities are endless!

Lastly, you can thank your guests for being part of your magical day with themed wedding favours. Personalized keepsakes that relate to your theme will be cherished by your loved ones and serve as a reminder of the fantastic time they had at your wedding.

Themed weddings offer a delightful and enchanting way to celebrate your love story. By incorporating your passions and interests, you can create a unique experience that your guests will talk about for years to come. Whether it's an enchanting Halloween affair or a whimsical Harry Potter celebration, let your imagination soar and turn your wedding day into an unforgettable journey. Embrace the magic, and let your love story unfold in a way that is authentically and beautifully you.

For more inspiring wedding photography and wedding videography, you can visit my Instagram at www.instagram.com/etangphotography!

Spring at TASC Tulip Pick Farm

Spring is here and so are the tulips! This year I had the pleasure of visiting the TASC Tulip Pick Farm. Springtime at the TASC Tulip Pick Farm in Niagara is an experience unlike any other. With acres upon acres of brightly coloured tulips in full bloom, visitors are treated to a breathtaking display of natural beauty. The farm, located in the heart of Niagara’s wine country, is a must-see destination for nature lovers and garden enthusiasts alike.

Situated in Fenwick, the farm offers a beautiful backdrop for a fun springtime photography shoot, and let’s be honest - who doesn’t love being surrounded by flowers on a beautiful sunny day?

One of the highlights of the Tasc Tulip Pick Farm is the ability to actually pick your own tulips. Visitors can wander through the rows of flowers, selecting the ones that catch their eye. With over 35 varieties of tulips to choose from, there is no shortage of options. The farm provides buckets and scissors, making it easy to gather your favourites and create your unique bouquet. It’s a lovely spot for family photography or couple photography and I can’t wait to visit with my own family.

In addition to the tulips, the farm offers a variety of other activities and attractions. There are hayrides and tractor tours available, allowing visitors to see the entire farm and learn about the history of tulip cultivation in the area. Aside from the flowers, the farm includes a playground for children, a gift shop, and café where visitors can relax and grab a snack.

The Tasc Tulip Pick Farm is only open for a short time each year, typically from mid-April through early May. During this time, the farm is bustling with activity as visitors from all over come to experience the beauty of the tulips. It’s important to check the farm’s website for the most up-to-date information on hours and admission fees.

Springtime at the TASC Tulip Pick Farm in Niagara is an unforgettable experience. With its colourful tulips, eco-friendly practices, and family-friendly attractions, it’s undoubtedly become a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike. So if you’re looking for a unique and beautiful way to experience the beauty of spring, be sure to add the Tasc Tulip Pick Farm to your list of must-see destinations. Say goodbye to winter and welcome the coming summer with some fresh tulips!

If you have any questions feel free to contact me.

We're Back!

Hello all! It’s that time of year again - wedding season is upon us! That means it’s time to get the creative juices flowing to capture some beautiful memories.

COVID-19 has made the last few years hard on many businesses. We appreciate all of your continued support for Tang Photography. I’m looking forward to celebrating more beautiful couples and their love stories.

As a Niagara wedding photographer, I couldn’t be more excited to share all of my photoshoots this year. I may even throw in a few tips and tricks and some behind-the-scenes secrets so you can get to know me and my team better.

Looking for a flexible, hard-working engagement and wedding photographer in the Niagara region? Please feel free to look at the wedding packages that I offer, or email me for a free consultation.

Capture Your Proposal

Being a wedding photographer has allowed me the opportunity to witness many beautiful and unique wedding proposals. What I love the most about proposals is the chance to really personalize the experience. I’ve seen intimate engagements and I’ve seen grand gestures, and I can tell you that each one warmed my heart. It continues to put my faith in love and capturing those moments with my camera will always be something that I am passionate about!

            This past weekend I had a surprise engagement photography shoot at Vineland Estates and it was very romantic. Between the intimate setting of the wine cellar and the flower petals scattered on the ground in the shape of a heart, the bride-to-be was floored and said yes!

           My wedding videographer and I also recently filmed and photographed an engagement at Niagara Falls (which was another success!). With the help of the groom, we planned out a sneaky scenario where we pretended to be film students at the local college, interviewing tourists about their experiences in the area. It was a blast and I am always willing to go the extra mile to make a special occasion successful! It’s enough just to see the smile on their faces. Needless to say, I love photographing engagements just as much as I love being a wedding photographer.

Just (Wedding) Desserts!

One of the best parts about celebrating your wedding is being able to indulge in all of the delicious food, including a decadent wedding cake! Whether you prefer chocolate, vanilla or red velvet the options are endless and there are many talented Niagara bakeries that can bring your perfect dessert to life.

 Whether it’s a large family wedding or a small ceremony, you’ll want that classic wedding cake photo (hopefully avoiding frosting to the face). A St. Catharines bakery that I can personally recommend is Cake by Cheryl. They do a fantastic job and their cakes are always delicious!

The list of best wedding cake bakeries in St. Catharines also includes Lipstick Baker Custom Cakes, Cakes by the Lake Niagara, Edible Options, Con Gusto Artisan Bakery, and Itty Bitty Pie Company. They all have fantastic reviews, and by the look of their photos, mouth-watering desserts!

Let your personality shine through with your wedding cake and remember that it’s okay to push the boundaries. Keep it traditional or flaunt your favourite game. Even if you have special dietary needs or want to opt for cupcakes instead, wedding bakeries in Niagara will work with you to achieve your vision!

Flower Power

            A lot of changes came with the pandemic, including wedding dates! This means that when you’re planning your new wedding, details like flowers may need adjustments. The flowers you were looking at might not be in season anymore but fear not, there are always amazing florists around the corner! I know first-hand that Niagara wedding florists do a fantastic job at beautifying any wedding.

            A few of the top flower boutiques in the Niagara region include The Flower House, Watering Can Weddings, Wine Country Floral, Cathy Martin Flowers, Von Mar Floral Boutique, Plush Flowers, BBBlooms Floral Studio, Stems etc., Vine Floral and Canada Flowers.

            As a local wedding photographer in St. Catharines, I know the surrounding area offers plenty of affordable flower boutiques with florists who have a passion for what they do. So, take your time and find one that fits. There is much to consider, like colour schemes and the overall feel of the event and it can be overwhelming. It’s okay to seek help to take some of the pressure off!

            Whether they be roses, lilies or baby’s breath, a bouquet or a simple centrepiece can add a stunning accent to any wedding. Being a wedding photographer, I can say with confidence that flower arrangements only add to a photo, accenting the beauty of the event and leaving a lasting impression on the attendees. Take your time and choose something that you love, after all, you will be staring at them for a few hours!

Weddings & Wineries

As a professional wedding photographer, I adore taking wedding photos in and around local areas and the Niagara region is filled with beauty and potential. Some of my favourite locations to shoot at are local wineries, and thankfully St. Catharines and its surrounding areas are full of them!

I’ve had the pleasure of working with wineries throughout the years, providing my clients with beautiful wedding photos that leave lasting impressions. Between the open, green vineyards and the interesting wine cellars, wineries provide amazing backdrops for weddings. The tasty wine is a bonus too! They often have a reputation for producing excellent wine, and many also have top-rated restaurants that offer delectable cuisine, which can be a highlight of any wedding reception.

Wineries offer picturesque surroundings with beautiful vineyards, rolling hills, and stunning landscapes that provide perfect backdrops for wedding ceremonies and photographs. The romantic ambiance and sophisticated atmosphere of wineries create a special and memorable experience for couples and their guests.

Wineries also offer a unique and unforgettable experience for couples and their guests. It's a chance to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse themselves in the natural beauty and tranquillity of wine country.

And if that doesn’t sell you on them, wineries often offer a range of customizable wedding packages that can accommodate various preferences and budgets, making it easy for couples to plan their dream wedding. With a variety of options, it eradicates a lot of the stress of having to pull from too many different resources and vendors to have your dream day come together.

If you’re considering celebrating your wedding at a winery then definitely take a look at these locations; Peller Estates Winery, Wayne Gretzky Estates Winery and Distillery, Jackson-Triggs Winery, Chateau des Charmes, Konzelmann Estate Winery, The Hare Wine Co and Pillar & Post.

There are countless wonderful local wineries around the region that are perfect for Niagara weddings so take your time and go on a tour or two! The people are friendly and the wine is even better.

Local Wedding Venues

            A big part of planning a wedding is choosing the right venue. Are you having a small gathering or anticipating a killer party? Depending on what you decide, choosing a space that will suit your needs and your preferences is crucial to make your dream day come true.

            As a St. Catharines wedding photographer, I have had the pleasure of working with a lot of local wineries, local hotels and other venues that have proven themselves as gracious hosts.

            Take for example the Stone Mill Inn located in St. Catharines. This beautiful venue can host up to 240 guests, includes accommodations, a ballroom, gracious staff and to top it off there is a scenic winery just down the road.

            Another great venue to consider for your wedding is the Prince of Wales in Niagara-on-the-Lake. The historic hotel offers a unique experience in a town littered with history. It comes equipped with a bar, a large hall, great food and a place to crash after a long night of dancing and celebrating.

            I have captured some of my best wedding photos at these locations and I look forward to any future weddings that take place in the Niagara area!

Choosing Your Wedding Dress

               Selecting a wedding dress can be just as important as choosing your wedding photographer or your wedding videographer. You want it to be perfect and feel like the right fit. It’s a reflection of your style and your personality. When you walk down the aisle, all eyes will be on you and that’s a lot of pressure. Finding your dream dress is crucial so you can strut down the aisle with confidence. You should feel beautiful.

               Even if you’ve been dreaming of your perfect wedding dress since you were small, take the time to do some research and figure out what styles you prefer. Rip out pages from magazines and scour through online bridal catalogs. You’ll find out fairly quickly what you like. On the other hand, keep an open mind because sometimes a dress that you would never even consider might be the one for you.

Finding the right dress can be stressful. Not only is it most likely the first time you’re trying on a wedding gown but it may also be the most expensive garment you will ever own. But dress shopping should be fun so tackle it with an open mind and a good support system. I’ve spoken with many brides and they all say that it feels like the shop associates are all speaking a different language. A-line, trumpet, chapel versus cathedral. There is a lot to consider but remember to breathe and enjoy the experience.

               I also recommend ignoring the sizing charts. No one is going to know your number besides you and your consultant, and it’s important that you wear a dress that fits you properly. Even if you plan on losing weight before your big day, shop the size that fits you now. It’s much easier to take a dress in than trying to maneuver one that is too tight.

               Have a budget in mind before you start shopping. Are you paying for the dress? Your parents or perhaps your partner? Talking numbers can be uncomfortable but it will make your experience so much easier if you know what you’re working with beforehand. It will save you the headache and the heartbreak if you fall in love with a dress that is way out of your budget.

               Lastly, wear the appropriate undergarments. It’s difficult to imagine what you’ll look like on your wedding day with a pair of hot pink straps poking out of your dress. Most brides prefer nude underwear and a strapless bra. Bringing a pair of Spanx isn’t a bad idea either.

               Enjoy the experience and have fun! Choose the dress that makes you feel stunning and walk down the aisle knowing you look picturesque.

My Equipment - Cameras

As a photographer, having reliable equipment is incredibly important. There are so many things to consider like lighting, stability, clarity and portability. When I started out as a wedding photographer in Niagara, I didn’t have nearly as many tools as I have now and I have had to build up my arsenal over time to make sure that I deliver the best product that I can.

I have used many cameras over the years but currently, I use the Nikon D750 as well as the Nikon Z6. I like to carry both of them with me on a shoot because I want to be able to use a variety of lenses at any given time. Having both of them on me allows me to take photos quickly and effectively without having to waste time switching lenses.

I have been using the Nikon D750 for a while now and there are a few things that I love about it. First of all, it has great resolution and takes quality photos. It makes editing painless. It also has a wide range of lenses which makes it easy to capture exactly what I want. I’m partial to the 85mm and the 75-200mm. Finally, it works well in low light, making capturing evening weddings as well as night time photography a breeze.

 About a year ago, I upgraded to the Z6 and I was very impressed with the camera. My videographer in St. Catharines and I prefer using this camera. It’s lightweight which is great when you already have to cart around a lot of other equipment. The last thing you want is to be weighed down by the cameras that you’re using. It also works really well in low light. Because of this, we’ve gotten quite a few great shots. We just filmed a surprise engagement in Niagara falls and it performed great! Aside from its other great qualities, one of the features I love the most is the viewfinder. It might seem like a small thing but the Z6 offers a lot more focal points than other cameras. It’s extremely responsive and user friendly. I look forward to the chance at tinkering with Nikon’s newest mirrorless camera, the Z7.

Posing Your Subjects for Great Photos

Unlike household items or inanimate objects, if you’re photographing subjects like people then you’re going to want to learn how to properly pose them. Especially if they are nervous in front of the camera. A lot of the time people don’t know where to stand or what to do with their hands. Awkward posing doesn’t discriminate either! It affects all stages of life.

POSING FAMILIES WITH KIDS

I shoot a lot of family photography in the Niagara region and working with families, big or small can sometimes be challenging. When you’re at a photoshoot with kids, you’ll want to pose them quickly before their attention is lost to something else. I like to keep them close to their parents, either leaning in against them or hanging onto one of their arms. If I can nail a handful of nice photos then I can relax and leave myself time for creativity. 

Candid shots where the parents get to play with the kids are great for two reasons. It allows the kids to take a break and it allows the family to move around freely, without having to worry about posing for the camera.

POSING COUPLES

If I’m working with couples, I like to keep things intimate and fun. Holding hands and walking towards or away from the camera always makes for a great shot. To avoid looking awkward, I like to place hands into pockets or shoulders and waists.

USING AVAILABLE PROPS

I remember shooting wedding photography in Niagara Falls and I had the bride and groom pose by the lookout, peering through the glasses and making googly eyes at each other. Utilizing your environment can be a fantastic way to keep your subject’s hands busy and your shots interesting.

GIVE CLEAR DIRECTION

Make sure to speak up and fix a pose that doesn’t quite seem right. It’s respectful to avoid touching your subjects but sometimes you will need to and that’s okay. At the end of the day, people need direction and your photoshoots will go a lot smoother if you plan ahead and aren’t afraid to get the perfect shot!

To book me as a family photographer in St. Catharines or a family photographer in the Niagara region click here!

Makeup Tips & Tricks

               Hello readers! I’m back this week to talk about makeup. Whether you’re hiring a team to glam you up or watching tutorials online, figuring out how to keep your makeup looking perfect all day can be a challenge.

SCHEDULE Time

The first thing I would recommend, much like when I talked about hair, is to allow yourself enough time. Applying your makeup about 45 mins to an hour before the wedding should do the trick.

Proper Skincare GOES A LONG WAY

Keep your skin clean, exfoliated, and hydrated to begin the process and achieve a glowing look. This will make sure that your makeup survives a day of sweating and dancing. To deal with excess oil, blot your t-zone with a tissue instead of applying more makeup.

EXPERIMENT BEFORE HAND

It’s also a great idea to play around with a few looks beforehand so you have one less thing to worry about on your big day. Book your trial 3-5 weeks before your wedding. A quick tip – wear a t-shirt that is a similar colour to your dress!

USE THE PROPER TYPES of MAKE UP

This goes without saying but consider waterproof foundation and mascara to avoid runny makeup. Trust me, there will be tears! It’s important that you use long-lasting products and products that best suit your skin type.

An alternative to lipstick, which you won’t have time to keep re-applying, is to go with a lip stain. Layer it with a sheer gloss and you’re ready to walk down the aisle and pose for photos (without smearing your makeup all over your partner).

EMERGENCY KIT

In the case of emergencies, make sure you or a bridesmaid carry around a few essentials to swoop in for any needed touch-ups.

Something that we may not have to consider forever but need to during these tough times is wearing a mask. Putting your safety and the safety of those around you is important but that doesn’t mean that you have to run the risk of ruining your beautiful look. I stumbled across a great blog that covers a step-by-step process that gives great tips for keeping your makeup intact during the pandemic.

Check out the images I took below for links to some amazing makeup artists!

@prettypleasemakeoverme

@beyoutifulbrides

@___dot_

@makeupjedi

Wedding Hair Do's And Don'ts

Everyone wants to look beautiful on their wedding day and over the course of my photography career, I’ve learned a few tips that I think will help you make sure you look your best. Regardless if you have long or short hair, straight, curly or somewhere in between it’s important to choose a hairstyle that best suits your personality and your style.

               First and foremost, try to gather inspiration from different photos. It’s great if you find a hairstyle that you fall in love with but it’s much more helpful for the hairstylist to have a collection of photos that they can use as a reference to give them a better idea of the overall look you want to achieve. This way you can point out different details that you like. Also, keep in mind that you don’t want to solicit too many opinions. We tend to rely on the opinions of our families, friends and even our partners but try to keep it simple. Sometimes having too many ideas swimming in your head is a bad thing.

               When you have a good idea of what you want, schedule a trial-run but don’t do it too early. Don’t leave yourself time to second-guess your decisions. Usually, four to six weeks before the wedding is best. This way you can work out the kinks, save time and have one less thing to worry about before your big day. Another thing to avoid is changing your hair too close to the wedding. This includes trying out a new salon as well as getting a new cut or colour. The results can be devastating. If it’s unavoidable then take photos of your trial and bring them with you so that the next hairstylist is prepared to work around your wedding look.

               Lastly, remember to be open-minded and trust your stylist. Set realistic expectations so you’re not disappointed by the end result (we can’t all look like Taylor Swift). Your stylist was hired for a reason so let them work their magic!

               Hair salons that I have been to personally and where I have received excellent customer service include Jazzy Cutz & Storm. Click the images below to be linked to some fantastic salons!

Hair by @prettypleasemakeoverme

Hair by @PicassoSalon

Hair by @beyoutifulbrides

Hair by @Alessandrosalon

Hair by @Alessandrosalon

Hair by @makeupjedi

Hair by @textureshairsalonnotl

Engagement Photo Shoots

Hello and welcome to my new blog where I’ll be talking about everything photography! I’ll be posting about all of my favourite locations, where to look when selecting wedding attire, meal plans, and even let you in on some of my tips and tricks to give you an inside look at how my photoshoots take place.

The first topic I want to delve into is engagement photoshoots which I offer complimentary if you book a wedding with me. For more information on my packages visit http://www.etangphotography.com/weddingsrates. I recently included a budget-friendly package!

Through a little exploration, I have discovered a number of great locations for engagement shoots scattered throughout the Niagara region. Locations I love include; Oak Garden Theatre, Clifton Hill, Happy Rolph’s, Butterfly Conservatory, Jaycee Park, Decew Falls, St. Johns Conservatory, Niagara Falls, Dufferin Islands, Charles Daley Park, Butler’s Barracks, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Woodend and numerous waterfalls in Hamilton. In the fall time, Short Hills, St. Johns and beside the Butterfly Conservatory are all beautiful.

Regardless of the long list, my all-time favourite location will always be Queenston Heights. Queenston Heights offers variety and a lot of different, breathtaking backdrops to enhance a couple’s newfound love. It is monumental and an important piece of history. I recently had the pleasure of working with a lively couple with who I shared a lot of funny moments. It was fun to challenge myself and see how many different shots I could take, the diverse scenery leaving so much room for creativity.

Click the image to view more photos like this!

In the end we had a blast. This is why I love being a photographer in the Niagara area. No matter which direction you drive, there is always a picturesque view right around the corner.