wedding experience
the
Guide
Tips and Guidance for planning your wedding Photography in Orlando: timeline, first look, sunset photos, and details
wedding experience
the
Guide
Tips and Guidance for planning your wedding Photography in Orlando timeline, first look, sunset photos, and details
I'M
I am so glad you're reading this guide! I know that photography is one of the biggest decisions you're making for your wedding day. You've invested in making your day perfect. Now, invest in capturing your day so you can share it with your future kids and grandkids!
Even if your're working with a wedding planner or planning it yourself, there are still a lot of moving parts leading up to your day.
As an Orlando wedding photographer, I tend to get asked the same things. So, I thought it would be beneficial if I put together a guide that walks you through the process from engagement sessions, to timelines, and even to inclement weather.
LANH BALAGTAS
ORLANDO WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER
One of the top wedding photographers in Orlando, I believe in service and quality.
As an Orlando wedding photographer, I don’t believe that photography is one-size-fits-all. I serve couples who believe that getting genuine and joyful pictures not only starts with a deep love for each other but also a friendship with their photographer.
I will be there with you during your most intimate moments. Moments where you get to see your husband for the FIRST time. Moments where you will be sharing special notes you've written to each other. It's not something I take lightly and I want to make sure that we are the perfect fit.
Let's be friends and see if we're the right for each other! Find me on Instagram @LBalagtasPhotography
01.
let's be friends
Coffee/tea dates with my couples is something I love. Its a great way to get to know each other and for me to answer your questions. It allows me to see what your wedding photography needs are.
I am able to walk you through the entire wedding day as your Orlando wedding photographer-- from the moment I arrive to your hotel room to the sparkler exit.
Its also a time where you get to spill all the special wedding details you've got planned. (PS I LOVE getting sneak peeks of your wedding dress eekkk)
02.
coffee date
Once we've decided that we are the right match, I'll send over all the legal stuff-- contracts and deposit info. This will allow me to block off your date and decline any further inquiries for that day.
Then, I'm officially your Orlando wedding photographer
03.
save the date
Engagement sessions are SO much fun. Its the time to celebrate your love and freeze this short, season forever.
I also love it because it helps build our relationship and make you more comfortable in front of the camera.
Another major plus is that you have photos to share for Save-The-Dates, engagement parties, and rehearsal dinners.
An engagement session will, also, show you how I work. From the way that I pose you, to the terms that I use, its a great way to see how we interact. It also ensures that we’re the perfect fit for each other.
04.
engagement session
Approximately 2 weeks prior to your wedding, I'll Facetime you to go over your final details: timelines, special requests, etc.
I'll also send you a questionnaire that allows me to serve you to the fullest on your wedding day.
I want to make the day as stress free as possible and the way to do so is for me to be 110% prepared.
05.
checking in
The day is finally here! Time for you to relax and let me capture your day!
You have poured your heart in to planning-- choosing the perfect bouquet, engraving your wedding bands, picking the perfect shoes, and organizing the biggest party of the year. Now, CELEBRATE!
Enjoy the morning while you sip mimosas with your gals. Take in every minute of your first look. Cry as ugly as you want! Dance the night away!
Let me capture your day, your details, and your memories!
06.
wedding day
You have just had the BEST day of your life. It all passed by SO quickly and you are eager to relive the whole day over and over again.
Your sneak peek with 10 of my favorite images will be available to you the week after you wedding day.
07.
sneak peek
I love featuring my couples on the blog. I always have TONS of favorites from the day that I want to share in a format other than Facebook.
Its a great way to share your images with friends and family (especially if they don't use social media)
08.
blog post
Your full gallery of all edited images will be ready for viewing and download within 6 weeks of your wedding day.
The digital gallery is also shareable to anyone whom you wish to view them.
08.
gallery delivery
As a wedding photographer in Orlando, I offer archival quality products including:
Premium Prints
Heirloom Folio Boxes
Wall Enlargements
Custom Albums
Your beautiful images deserve to be printed and displayed with quality products. You can choose to store them in a genuine leather folio box, print them in a flat lay album, or create a picture wall.
Don't leave your photos on a hard drive that may one day corrupt. You images deserve to be enjoyed daily. Hang them up, create an album, and print your photos!
09.
premium products
explained
the first look
The first look is a modern trend where couples choose to see each other prior to the ceremony. It allows couples to share an intimate, private moment together. It is usually the only time in the day where they are truly "alone" (minus the photographer and videographer).
The first look has become very popular. It offers a chance see each other all dressed up, to cry and laugh, and to just be together.
What is A FIRST LOOK?
why have a
first look?
01.
spend more time together
Its the most important day of your lives, why spend it apart. By having the first look earlier in the day, this allows for you to spend more time together.
Not only do you get that intimate moment together, but you get all the moments after, too!
Having a first look earlier allows us to get LOTS more photos. Not only is my camera firing during the first look, but we are able to capture more traditional photos of you and your boo afterwards.
Major bonus: your hair and make up are still fresh, so you look super FAB!
First looks give us more flexibility with the timeline. If we are able to capture a lot of photos early on, there is less worry about getting the additional photos later , especially if the weather changes.
Sometimes, as the weather changes, we'll have to change the timeline. With the first look, we have a lot more options if it rains or if the heat is too much to handle (Florida summers can be brutal!).
I'm one of the top Orlando wedding photographers fl: you're detail oriented photographer.
Since we got the wedding party photos AND family formals done before the ceremony, that means EVERYONE (yes, babe, you too) gets to enjoy cocktail hour.
The day is a celebration after all, so spend it with the ones you love and enjoy some drinks and bites too!
I'm a wedding photographer in Orlando to capture your special day.
I'm one of the top wedding photographers in Orlando and believe in the details.
If you're looking for a wedding photographer in Orlando, look no further!
02.
more opportunity for photos
03.
more flexibilty throughout
the day
04.
everyone can enjoy
cocktail hour
I'm a wedding photographer in Orlando to capture your special day.
The first look is a modern trend where couples choose to see each other prior to the ceremony. It allows couples to share an intimate, private moment together. It is usually the only time in the day where they are truly "alone" (minus the photographer and videographer).
The first look has become very popular. It offers a chance to see each other all dressed up, to cry and laugh, and to just be together.
What is A FIRST LOOK?
I'm one of the top wedding photographers in Orlando and believe in the details.
01.
spend more time
together
Its the most important day of your lives, why spend it apart. By having the first look earlier in the day, this allows for you to spend more time together.
Not only do you get that intimate moment together, but you get all the moments after, too!
If you're looking for a wedding photographer in Orlando, look no further!
Having a first look earlier allows us to get LOTS more photos. Not only is my camera firing during the first look, but we are able to capture more traditional photos of you and your boo afterwards.
Major bonus: your hair and make up are still fresh, so you look super FAB!
02.
more opportunity for photos
I'm one of the top Orlando wedding photographers fl: you're detail oriented photographer.
First looks give us more flexibility with the timeline. There are so many moving parts to a wedding day that if we're able to capture photos early on, there is more flexibility if needed, later.
Sometimes, as the weather changes, we'll have to change the timeline. With the first look, we have a lot more options if it rains or if the heat is too much to handle (Florida summers can be brutal!)
03.
more flexibilty throughout the day
Paragraph
Since we got the wedding party photos AND family formals done before the ceremony, that means EVERYONE (yes, babe, you too) gets to enjoy cocktail hour.
The day is a celebration after all, so spend it with the ones you love and enjoy some drinks and bites too!
04.
everyone can enjoy
cocktail hour
If you're looking for an Orlando Florida wedding photographer, I'd love to talk!
wedding day
Sample timelines
WithOUT a First Look »
view timelines »
With a First Look »
Having a timeline custom for your day is very important. It essentially affects every part of your wedding day experience. So, it's something you should think about early on, especially before you send out invitations.
I have put together some sample timelines based on a 10 hour wedding day for you to get an idea of how a first look can change the entire day.
There are so many variables in a wedding day, so, we'll work on your custom timeline once you book me as your Orlando wedding photographer!
10:00-1045
Details Photos
10:45-11:15
Hair & Make Up Photos
11:15-11:30
11:30-11:45
Bride & BridesmAids in robes
Walk to First Look Location
11:50-12:00
First look
12:00-12:20
Bride & Groom Photos
12:20-12:45
Bride & Groom + Groomsmen
12:45-1:00
Bride & Groom + Entire wedding Party
1:00-1:20
Bride & Groom + Bridesmaids
1:20-1:35
Retouch Makeup, Relax,Buffer time
1:45-2:30
Family Formals
2:30-3:00
Ceremony
3:00-4:00
Cocktail Hour
4:00-5:00
Reception Start Time
5:00
Mr. & Mrs. Sunset Photos
6:00-620
11:00-1145
Details Photos
11:45-12:15
Hair & Make Up Photos
12:15-12:40
Bride Gets DresseD
Groomsmen get dressed
12:40-1:00
Bride & BridesmAids in robes
Grooms & Groomsmen hanging out
1:00-1:30
1:30-2:00
Bride & Bridesmaid Photos
Bride & Groom + Groomsmen
Bride & Groom + Entire wedding Party
Bride & Groom + Bridesmaids
Retouch Makeup, Relax
Family Formals
2:00-3:00
Ceremony
3:00-3:30
Cocktail Hour
3;30-3:45
Reception Start Time- gUESTS sEATING
6:00
Mr. & Mrs. Sunset Portraits
5:30-6:10
Groom & Groomsmen Photos
5:00-6:00
Groom & Groomsmen hanging out
Bride Gets DresseD
Groomsmen get dressed
bUFFER TIME
photographers depart
8:00
photographers depart
9:00
4:30-5:30
4:15-4:30
3:45-4:15
with a
first look
without a
first look
10:00-1045
Details Photos
10:45-11:15
Hair & Make Up
Photos
11:15-11:30
BRIDE GETS DRESSED
groom & GROOMSMEN
photos
11:30-11:45
BRIDE & BRIDESMAIDS
IN ROBES
GROOMS & GROOMSMEN
hanging out
Walk to First
Look Location
11:50-12:00
First look
12:00-12:20
Bride & Groom Photos
12:20-12:45
Bride & Groom +
Groomsmen
12:45-1:00
Bride & Groom +
Entire wedding Party
1:00-1:20
Bride & Groom + Bridesmaids
1:20-1:35
Retouch Makeup, Relax,Buffer time
1:45-2:30
Family Formals
2:30-3:00
Ceremony
3:00:4:00
Cocktail Hour
4:00-5:00
Reception Start Time
5:00
Mr. & Mrs. Sunset
Photos
6:00-6:15
with a
first look
photographers depart
8:00
WithOUT a First Look »
11:00-1145
Details Photos
11:45-12:15
Hair & Make Up Photos
12:15-12:35
Bride Gets DresseD
Groomsmen get dressed
12:40-1:00
Bride & BridesmAids in robes
Grooms & Groomsmen hanging out
1:00-1:30
1:30-1:45
Bride & Bridesmaid Photos
Bride & Groom + Groomsmen
Bride & Groom + Entire wedding Party
Bride & Groom + Bridesmaids
Family Formals
2:00-3:00
Ceremony
3:00-3:30
Cocktail Hour
3:30-3:45
Reception Start Time- gUESTS sEATING
6:00
Mr. & Mrs. Sunset Portraits
5:30-6:10
Groom & Groomsmen Photos
5:00-6:00
photographers depart
9:00
4:15-4:30
3:45-4:15
without a
first look
With a First Look »
REtouch Make up, relax
4:30-5:30
ceremony
an unplugged
In the day and age of cell phones, it has become normal for guests to be engulfed in their digital devices; texting, browsing social media, and taking photos; and not being fully present in the present.
I recommend asking your guests to unplug during your ceremony. Put the phones away and be 100% present.
You've made a big investment in Orlando wedding photography, so let me capture your ceremony without potentially having a large iPad blocking your face as you walk down the aisle with your father. Or, without having your Uncle Bob jump in front of me to take a photo of your first kiss.
details
it's all in the
You have carefully and strategically picked out every detail of your wedding day. From your dream dress, to your custom invitations with the hand painted crest, your grandmother's earrings, and to your pink peonies bouquet, I love to capture it all!
Not only is it important to you, it's important to me. As a detail oriented, Orlando wedding photographer, I know that one day, your daughter will look back on your wedding album and admire (or make fun of) your style. Who knows, maybe she will want to incorporate the same flowers in her bouquet as well!
TIPS FOR DETAILS
Gather all details the night before and put them aside
Try to keep the area near the window clear of any clutter (its where we will be taking details photos)
Choose a room that has the most windows to get ready in
Ask your florist for extra trimmings of flowers & greenery for styling
details checklist
Dress & Nice Hanger
Engagement Ring & Bands
Ring Boxes
TWO Invitation Suites
Shoes
Perfume Bottle
Veil
Bouquets
Hair Pieces
Earrings & Bracelets & Necklaces
Vow Books
Any Other Sentimental Items
hers
details checklist
his
Suit & Nice Hanger
Shoes
Socks
Cufflinks
Tie or Bowtie
Tie Clip
Pocket square
Boutonniere
Watch
mr.
mrs.
and
sunset photos
Some of your first photos as HUSBAND and WIFE. are taken during golden hour, around 6pm. I like to sneak you away for about 15 minutes. Now, don't worry, it's usually when the guests are eating or lining up for food, so you won't miss a thing!
I always recommend sunset photos because, not only are the pictures magical (its not called golden hour for nothing) but it also gives you two a little time to take it all in because yesss, he is your HUBBY now!
After the ceremony, the rest of the day becomes a whirlwind of events. Things get pretty hectic and the time passes by SO quickly. Taking the time to sneak away for photos gives you a little break to regroup and get some alone time. AND, it gives you some beautiful photos to look back on.
your first photos as husband & wife
The reviews
Lanh is amazing! She truly thought of every detail and every picture I could have possibly wanted. Lanh was sure I got BEAUTIFUL (and I mean BEAUTIFUL) classic shots but also really fun and creative ones. She literally was standing in the middle of a bush when she captured my favorite photo from our wedding day!
I was a bride super self conscious about bad angles and double chins and I really appreciated Lanh's "chin up" reminders and her instincts to get really flattering shots. I love love love my wedding photos!!
gisele & john
Lanh is an amazing photographer and I highly recommend her to anyone!!! She photographed my elopement and every detail and shot was perfect!
She is very detailed orientated and made sure we had all the shots we wanted, especially of those details that were important to me and my husband! Every photo was absolutely beautiful and she even wrote an amazing blog post about our special day that shared our story so beautifully.
I am looking forward to hiring Lanh again to capture more beautiful memories of my family in the future.
The pinels
We could not have made a better decision in choosing Lanh.
As an untraditional couple, we were hesitant that we wouldn’t find a photographer that would make us both feel comfortable and beautiful. We couldn’t be happier with Lanh!
From the first meeting, Lanh took great care to get to know us as a couple in order to authentically capture our love story. With every detail, Lanh demonstrated the upmost professionalism to ensure that it was a stress-free day.
We look back fondly on our wedding day with the gorgeous images that Lanh created.
The Limpers
I've always had trouble finding a photographer. But. Lanh made my husband and I comfortable. We felt natural, we didn't have any crazy poses where your arm looks dislocated, she knew exactly how to direct you without making you feel uneasy.
She will catch the perfect shot in the perfect lighting, and let me tell you, she KNOWS her lighting.
She captured our family twice now, but I'm already planning for this year and I can not wait!!
the pepe's
Lanh is beyond talented! She definitely has the eye for all things aesthetics! She made my boyfriend and I so comfortable during our very first shoot with each other and with her. Let me add in it was in freezing weather and the shots exceeded expectations! Lanh will forever be our go to!! Love you Lanh!
Pauline & Evan
I loved Lanh from the moment I contacted her. She returned all inquiries within minutes. She provided an information brochure on the best way to prepare for our family photos, suggested how to pull together color coordination since there were 13 of us.
The day of the shoot, she was wonderful and was organized. She worked well with our four young grandchildren and even knew to bribe them with candy.
The pictures turned out beautifully. She gave us a sneak preview and the full album earlier than expected. I can't say enough good things about Lanh. We feel totally blessed that she was our photographer for our family.
the Borst's
Lanh shot our maternity shoot today and honestly we have never had a better experience. She was SO friendly and so professional. My husband and I were a bit nervous and honestly felt a little unprepared but Lanh took care of posing and positioning for the perfect lighting-I mean she even had a STAND to get the perfect shot from above!
We were put at such ease and my husband was so impressed (he is very camera shy). Even straight from the camera the shots looked AMAZING.
the hernandez's
So happy that I have found Lanh!!! She totally got my vision straight away and our family Christmas pictures turned out just perfect! It was so easy to work with her and my daughters had so much fun during this photoshoot.
aija
I spent countless hours online searching and typing numerous hashtags for photographers in Orlando area.
I am so happy to have found Lanh! I love the fact that she uses natural light and her photos are not overly edited. Above all, she is the sweetest! She even got a smile out of my son! We had lots of compliments for our photos.
the Tan's
Had an amazingly easy photography session with Lanh! Having 3 young kids, it’s HARD to wrangle them all together to get a perfect shot but Lanh was so efficient and quick! She captured us as a family perfectly and each of my kids individually. I definitely recommend!
the marjason's
Lanh is such a wonderful photographer and we love her style, we are so happy she was recommended by a friend! She has helped capture our family twice now, and we plan on continuing to incorporate her photography into our lives as we grow as a family.
the flores'
Lanh is always on time and professional! We continue to support her year after year. She is great with our kids and keeps everyone smiling. A great person and photographer. Looking forward to the next shoot.
The Harpers
Lanh has been one of my favorite photographers to date. She went above and beyond, taking time, and capturing beautiful memories for our family. We love our pictures and will treasure them forever. I hope we have another session soon!
The Martins
the LIMPERS
kind words from
We could not have made a better decision in choosing Lanh.
As an untraditional couple, we were hesitant that we wouldn’t find a photographer that would make us both feel comfortable and beautiful. We couldn’t be happier with Lanh!
From the first meeting, Lanh took great care to get to know us as a couple in order to authentically capture our love story. With every detail, Lanh demonstrated the upmost professionalism to ensure that it was a stress-free day.
We look back fondly on our wedding day with the gorgeous images that Lanh created.
Lanh is amazing! She truly thought of every detail and every picture I could have possibly wanted. Lanh was sure I got BEAUTIFUL (and I mean BEAUTIFUL) classic shots but also really fun and creative ones. She literally was standing in the middle of a bush when she captured my favorite photo from our wedding day!
I was a bride super self conscious about bad angles and double chins and I really appreciated Lanh's "chin up" reminders and her instincts to get really flattering shots. I love love love my wedding photos!!
gisele & John
kind words from
Lanh is an amazing photographer and I highly recommend her to anyone!!! She photographed my elopement and every detail and shot was perfect!
She is very detailed orientated and made sure we had all the shots we wanted, especially of those details that were important to me and my husband! Every photo was absolutely beautiful and she even wrote an amazing blog post about our special day that shared our story so beautifully.
I am looking forward to hiring Lanh again to capture more beautiful memories of my family in the future.
the pinels
kind words from
Pauline & Evan
kind words from
Lanh is beyond talented! She definitely has the eye for all things aesthetics! She made my boyfriend and I so comfortable during our very first shoot with each other and with her. Let me add in it was in freezing weather and the shots exceeded expectations! Lanh will forever be our go to!! Love you Lanh!
the pepe's
kind words from
I've always had trouble finding a photographer. Lanh made my husband and I comfortable. We felt natural, we didn't have any crazy poses where your arm looks dislocated, she knew exactly how to direct you without making you feel uneasy.
She will catch the perfect shot in the perfect lighting, and let me tell you, she KNOWS her lighting.
She captured our family twice now, but I'm already planning for this year and I can not wait!! She is also stuck with me now, I'm not letting her go lol
the Borst's
kind words from
I loved Lanh from the moment I contacted her. She returned all inquiries within minutes. She provided an information brochure on the best way to prepare for our family photos, suggested how to pull together color coordination since there were 13 of us.
The day of the shoot, she was wonderful and was organized. She worked well with our four young grandchildren and even knew to bribe them with candy.
The pictures turned out beautifully. She gave us a sneak preview and the full album earlier than expected. I can't say enough good things about Lanh. We feel totally blessed that she was our photographer for our family.
The Marjason's
kind words from
Had an amazingly easy photography session with Lanh! Having 3 young kids, it’s HARD to wrangle them all together to get a perfect shot but Lanh was so efficient and quick! She captured us as a family perfectly and each of my kids individually. I definitely recommend!
Aija & Family
kind words from
So happy that I have found Lanh!!! She totally got my vision straight away and our family Christmas pictures turned out just perfect! It was so easy to work with her and my daughters had so much fun during this photoshoot.
Lanh shot our maternity shoot today and honestly we have never had a better experience with a photographer. She was SO friendly and so professional. My husband and I were a bit nervous and honestly felt a little unprepared but Lanh took care of posing (to detail) and positioning for the perfect lighting-I mean she even had a STAND to get the perfect shot from above!
We were put at such ease and my husband was so impressed (he is very camera shy). Even straight from the camera the shots looked AMAZING.
the hernandez's
kind words from
The Tan's
kind words from
I spent countless hours online searching and typing numerous hashtags for photographers in Orlando area. I am so happy to have found Lanh! I love the fact that she uses natural light and her photos are not overly edited. Above all, she is the sweetest! She even got a smile out of my son! We had lots of compliments for our photos.
the flores'
kind words from
Lanh is such a wonderful photographer and we love her style, we are so happy she was recommended by a friend! She has helped capture our family twice now, and we plan on continuing to incorporate her photography into our lives as we grow as a family.
the Martins
kind words from
Lanh has been one of my favorite photographers to date. She went above and beyond, taking time, and capturing beautiful memories for our family. We love our pictures and will treasure them forever. I hope we have another session soon!
Pauline & Evan
kind words from
Lanh is always on time and professional! We continue to support her year after year. She is great with our kids and keeps everyone smiling. A great person and photographer. Looking forward to the next shoot.
tip 1
01
Have your hair and make up done FIRST, before your bridesmaids.
Many times, the #1 reason why timelines get off schedule is because of HMU.
If you get your HMU done first, we have more time to capture photos of you and continue as scheduled to your first look.
02
tip 2
Make sure to have your bouquet and boutonnieres delivered in time to make an appearance in your detail photos.
Ask your floral designer for extra stems and greenery for styling- trust me, it makes a HUGE difference in the photos and adds a touch of elegance.
03
tip 3
Advise your day of coordinator to hold off on letting guests enter ceremony and reception space before we photograph it.
We want to grab photos before people start putting down purses and coats.
04
tip 4
I send a questionnaire before the wedding day. Make sure to discuss it with your fiance and fill it out.
The most important part of the questionnaire is Family Formals. To make sure it goes as smooth as possible, I will have the list that you send me, in hand, to ensure that we include everyone you want.
I always recommend narrowing down family members to the most immediate since family formals can easily take 30 minutes or more.
05
tip 5
Try sending me two sets of invitations before your wedding day. This will ensure that you won't forget to pack it on the wedding day and that I have it to capture.
Sometimes, I style them the day after the wedding if I'm able to grab some spare flowers from a centerpiece or arbor.
If you are unable to send it, I recommend, on the wedding day, bringing TWO invitation suite sets with envelopes, stamps, and wax seals.
tip 1
Have your hair and make up done FIRST, before your bridesmaids.
Many times, the #1 reason why timelines get off schedule is because of HMU.
If you get your HMU done first, we have more time to capture photos of you and continue as scheduled to your first look.
tip 2
Make sure to have your bouquet and boutonnieres delivered in time to make an appearance in your detail photos.
Ask your floral designer for extra stems and greenery for styling- trust me, it makes a HUGE difference in the photos and adds a touch of elegance.
tip 3
Advise your day of coordinator to hold off on letting guests enter ceremony and reception space before we photograph it.
We want to grab photos before people start putting down purses and coats.
tip 4
I send a questionnaire before the wedding day. Make sure to discuss it with your fiance and fill it out.
The most important part of the questionnaire is Family Formals. To make sure it goes as smooth as possible, I will have the list that you send me, in hand, to ensure that we include everyone you want.
I always recommend narrowing down family members to the most immediate since family formals can easily take 30 minutes or more.
tip 5
Send me two sets of invitations before your wedding day. This will ensure that you won't forget to pack it on the wedding day and that I have it to capture.
Sometimes, I style them the day after the wedding if I'm able to grab some spare flowers from a centerpiece or arbor or the extra stems your florist sent.
If you are unable to send it, I recommend, on the wedding day, bringing TWO invitation suites with envelopes, stamps, and wax seals.
Send it over »
Ready to discuss your Orlando Wedding photography needs?
let's work together!
I can't wait to hear from you! Please fill out the form so we can start planning your photo session! If you prefer to email me directly, please use: LBalagtasPhotography@gmail.com