International wedding photographer Mathias Fast joins me in an interview and shares his insights on how to make sure your wedding photos end up being stunning.

What’s your favourite season for photographing couples and why?

It is hard to beat a warm summer day where the sun goes down after 9pm but a close second would be fall. I’m a sucker for a dramatic sky and I find they’re more likely to happen in the fall. Combine that with the insane colours on the trees and it’s a recipe for magic.

 

What can couples do to look their best in front of the camera?

I’m not one to give style advice but I always suggest my clients wear something they feel comfortable in. It can be weird having your picture taken (especially at first) and a stiff suit you haven’t worn in years or 4 inch heels won’t help.

 

Indoor or outdoor weddings, which do you prefer and why?

I don’t have a preference. I love a unique venue and good decor but at the end of the day its all the emotion and feeling. Give me a couple madly in love surrounded by people who are stoked to witness their marriage any day of the week in any setting and its game over (in a good way)!

What’s your favourite time of the day to shoot portraits and why?

Sunset. Shocking I know! 🙂 That said, I’m not a morning person but some of my favorite photos ever were taken at sunrise. There is a different quality to the light first thing in the morning that is very rewarding if you’re willing to sacrifice some sleep.

 

 

“Find someone who is going to document your day with YOU in mind, not their instagram feed.”

 

 

Should couples practice specific poses before the wedding?

Not necessary in my opinion. To be perfectly honest, I don’t really know how to pose and instead rely on a couple’s connection to determine the directions I give. A good photographer will be able to read their clients and know what kind of “pose” will work for them and what won’t. Most of the portraits I take will have the couple looking/interacting with each other rather than staring into the camera. They’ll be more relaxed this way and naturally hold each however is comfortable.

What can a photographer do to make couples feel at ease while shooting?

I give my clients’ a steady stream of encouragement throughout the shoot. ALWAYS remain positive, even if some of the photos aren’t turning out how you expected.

 

Should a photographer’s portfolio be the most important factor in making a choice (share your

thoughts)?

It should be the most important factor but not the only one. Actually getting along with your photographer is very important too. Chances are you’ll be spending a lot of time on your wedding day with them so it is only logical that you like them 🙂 When it comes to a photographer’s portfolio, I highly recommend asking to see a full wedding gallery (ideally from your venue or a similiar one).

 

Please include any final thoughts you’d like to share on this topic or on wedding photography in general.

Couples looking for a photographer – find someone who is going to document your day with YOU in mind, not their instagram feed. Whether it is family photos that are most important to you, posed photos with friends or creative portraits, choose a photographer whose style and approach aligns with that. Do your research beforehand, hire the right person and on your wedding day switch off your brain and let them do their thing.

Thanks for having me Victor!

– Mathias Fast

 

No, thank you Mathias for sharing your thoughts and insights into what makes great wedding photos in this amazing article! I too am a sucker for portraits at sunrise, and yes the hardest thing about those shots is getting up early. Thanks again!