In the morning the girls are sleepy, calm and sipping champagne. You are loving the light in their getting ready room and are welcomed to grab a bagel and some fruit. It’s literally like a Disney Movie… pure bliss.

While the girls are finishing up make up and hair it’s always a good idea to check on the guys at that time. Since they’re usually in walking distance just grab your bag and head over with a smile!

Before you even open the door you can hear the loud music, laughter and unidentifiable sounds, yup you can already tell this is going to be a challenge. Don’t fret! I’m happy to share some go to tips that help working with these rowdy guys a breeze!

As soon as you walk in discover your key players…

The Groom

He’s usually dressed a bit differently. Different colored tie or vest. Something that makes him pop from the rest. In case you haven’t met him prior try to approach him first with a congratulations hand shake (or hug if you’re a hugger!)

The Best Man

If he’s not quickly introduced, ask! He already feels entitled and aware of his duties, he will help! He knows you are on a mission for photos and will step up to help rally the troops as soon as you ask.

The Winker

As soon as you share your smile there will be a winker. Probably the quiet one in the corner that instantly relates to your hidden nervousness. No matter how much confidence you express he can sense your fear. Trust me. He will be your new best friend. It will just take eye contact with him when things are getting out of hand for him to raise his voice and tell the guys to knock it off!

The Bride’s Brother

He more than likely fits right into the group guys, but may not have the history or know as many inside jokes as the rest. Give him a special job or photo opt and he will be grateful! He’s a good one to grab and lead by example.

The Challenger 

There may be more than one… but if you make it fun for them I promise it will be less of a headache and more of a challenge for great photos! You will feel way more victorious than defeated if you play their game, while really being in charge! Let them have these silly photo opts, trust me they will be much more well behaved if you let them go crazy and then capture the shots you need after.

This literally allows them to get the crazy out and transition right into genuine and happy smiles. Works like a charm, every time!

Once you identify your key players you can help direct your photos by contacting your go to helpers throughout the shoot! Trust me, they will help!

Before you step outside for photos let them know the game plan!

• Scope out your locations before you start!
• Promise it will go quick and be super sonic fast if they follow directions and listen.
• Ask them to grab their drinks! It may be hot and these shots are FUN!
• Don’t forget their sunglasses. These are trending and you don’t want to single out that guy for forgetting!
• Get the individual shots out of the way first. This way they can instantly see that you mean business. One after the next with the groom and individual photos will go FAST and they will notice quickly that you know what you’re doing! Throw out a line up for them and point… “You’re on deck. You’re in the hole!” Instant cool girl points!
• Give them something to do! Clinking drinks, ask them to walk… anything to show movement and keep it natural looking.

Test your settings before they start… usually best during the casual walking/cheering photos… Don’t. I repeat. Don’t ask them to just chill while you test your settings…I promise this will happen.

They will instantly get goofy and test you. If they do just keep firing.

Don’t forget to let the crazy out again…

You will never have to share these to your blog or portfolio, but the groom and his guys will LOVE to have these. Plus these are the silly ones that end up on instagram with hundreds of likes! It’s nuts.

Hopefully these tips help and crushes your anxiety while working with handsome, but rowdy guys!

With love, Quianna Marie

 

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