Your Hampshire & Dorset Wedding - Nov/Dec 2019 (Issue 77)

 How to ace your winter wedding album FREEZE I f you’re planning a winter wedding and are worrying about the photos, there will be less natural light, the weather might be bad, it could even snow, but these are all challenges a seasoned pro will be well versed in. What’s more, it’s an increasingly popular time of year to tie the knot, with some great budget-friendly deals available and you can really go to town with the décor too, especially around Christmas time. Think cosy indoor spaces, open fires, twinkling fairylights, flickering candlelight, fireworks and sparkler shots. Read on for some top tips from the region’s wedding photographers and a gallery of seasonal scenes...` If the conditions are right, there’s always golden hour, that magical time before sunset, a sought-after sweet spot for just-wed shots. Hampshire-based Hayley Szczecinski of HS Photography (hsphotography.co.uk ) explains: “The golden hour is much sought after by couples and photographers. It’s that special time just before sunset and after sunrise when the sun is low in the sky and the light is less harsh. Optimum conditions will create beautiful lens flare, fiery effects and golden halos. If you’re hoping for this, it’s important to remember that it doesn’t necessarily occur for the full hour before sunset and may not happen at all if the sky is overcast, so don’t be disappointed. Often I’ve had just moments to capture a golden- hour shot when the sun has peeked through the clouds and cast its precious light on the happy couple.” “ HAYLEY’S GOLDEN-HOUR TIPS ❤ To increase your chances of capturing the moment, aim to schedule your couples shoot around an hour before sunset with some leeway before or after to allow for flexibility. ❤ Scout out your location and find out where the sun sets. If the venue is on a hill and the sun sets beyond it, the magic may happen a bit earlier. ❤ These type of shots are backlit so for the best results use a professional photographer as they will have the correct equipment and knowledge to ensure the best results. ❤ Lastly, you’ve got to go when the light is right! Liaise with your photographer and prepare to be a little flexible with your itinerary and with a little luck you will have the perfect couples portrait. PHOTOGRAPHY 51