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Wedding Photographer Talks Pet Peeves, Tricks for Getting the Pics You Want

  • On the big day, what are the biggest obstacles that can get in the way of great pictures? The schedule of a wedding day is always tricky, especially if there are multiple locations on the day (getting ready, ceremony, additional photo spot, and reception). Plan ample transportation time to get from one place to another. It means you might have to hire your photographer for an extra hour or two, but otherwise you’ll be stressed trying to fit too much into a short period of time — and so will the photographer, which is not a good set up for great photos. (Photo: Eileen Meny Photography)
    1/15

    On the big day, what are the biggest obstacles that can get in the way of great pictures? The schedule of a wedding day is always tricky, especially if there are multiple locations on the day (getting ready, ceremony, additional photo spot, and reception). Plan ample transportation time to get from one place to another. It means you might have to hire your photographer for an extra hour or two, but otherwise you’ll be stressed trying to fit too much into a short period of time — and so will the photographer, which is not a good set up for great photos. (Photo: Eileen Meny Photography)

    On the big day, what are the biggest obstacles that can get in the way of great pictures? The schedule of a wedding day is always tricky, especially if there are multiple locations on the day (getting ready, ceremony, additional photo spot, and reception). Plan ample transportation time to get from one place to another. It means you might have to hire your photographer for an extra hour or two, but otherwise you’ll be stressed trying to fit too much into a short period of time — and so will the photographer, which is not a good set up for great photos. (Photo: Eileen Meny Photography)
  • <p>Respect the sun. Good lighting is so important for beautiful wedding photos. The best time to take photos is in the two hours before the sun sets. While there are many things that you can change the timing of on a wedding day, the schedule of the sun is not one of them. Try to keep in mind/plan your photos around the light. You won’t be disappointed. <i>(Photo: <a href="http://eileenmenyphotography.com/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Eileen Meny Photography;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Eileen Meny Photography</a>)</i></p>
    2/15

    (Obstacles, cont.)

    Respect the sun. Good lighting is so important for beautiful wedding photos. The best time to take photos is in the two hours before the sun sets. While there are many things that you can change the timing of on a wedding day, the schedule of the sun is not one of them. Try to keep in mind/plan your photos around the light. You won’t be disappointed. (Photo: Eileen Meny Photography)

  • (Obstacles, cont.) Another thing on lighting: A lot of wedding venues have these windowless suites to get ready in. If possible, try to request a room with great window light. White walls also reflect light beautifully. Also, if possible, avoid uplighting, especially in pink and purple. Keep it simple. (Photo: Eileen Meny Photography)
    3/15

    (Obstacles, cont.) Another thing on lighting: A lot of wedding venues have these windowless suites to get ready in. If possible, try to request a room with great window light. White walls also reflect light beautifully. Also, if possible, avoid uplighting, especially in pink and purple. Keep it simple. (Photo: Eileen Meny Photography)

    (Obstacles, cont.) Another thing on lighting: A lot of wedding venues have these windowless suites to get ready in. If possible, try to request a room with great window light. White walls also reflect light beautifully. Also, if possible, avoid uplighting, especially in pink and purple. Keep it simple. (Photo: Eileen Meny Photography)
  • Stay in the know at a glance with the Top 10 daily stories

    Yahoo News is better in the app

    Stay in the know at a glance with the Top 10 daily stories

  • <p>Getting published in blogs and magazines is all about staying on trend with what’s currently popular and having really beautiful details (rings, dress, shoes, flowers, etc.). Last year was all about boho-chic weddings and flower crowns. I don’t think this year will be too different, but I predict some more metallics and a change with the <a href="https://www.yahoo.com/makers/pantone-announces-2016-color-twist-175201834.html" data-ylk="slk:Pantone colors;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas;outcm:mb_qualified_link;_E:mb_qualified_link;ct:story;" class="link yahoo-link">Pantone colors</a> rose quartz and serenity blue. <i>(Photo: <a href="http://eileenmenyphotography.com/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Eileen Meny Photography;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Eileen Meny Photography</a>)</i></p>
    4/15

    Any pro tips for couples who want wedding pictures fit for the blogosphere?

    Getting published in blogs and magazines is all about staying on trend with what’s currently popular and having really beautiful details (rings, dress, shoes, flowers, etc.). Last year was all about boho-chic weddings and flower crowns. I don’t think this year will be too different, but I predict some more metallics and a change with the Pantone colors rose quartz and serenity blue. (Photo: Eileen Meny Photography)

  • Tips for couples looking for the perfect wedding-photographer fit? I think it’s really important to meet with photographers in person or have a phone/Skype call with them before booking. Look up your photographer’s Facebook page or Instagram account; this helps give a better idea of the photographer’s style and personality. Ultimately the wedding day is a collaboration between the couple and the photographer, so it helps if you actually like having a conversation with that person. (Photo: Eileen Meny Photography)
    5/15

    Tips for couples looking for the perfect wedding-photographer fit? I think it’s really important to meet with photographers in person or have a phone/Skype call with them before booking. Look up your photographer’s Facebook page or Instagram account; this helps give a better idea of the photographer’s style and personality. Ultimately the wedding day is a collaboration between the couple and the photographer, so it helps if you actually like having a conversation with that person. (Photo: Eileen Meny Photography)

    Tips for couples looking for the perfect wedding-photographer fit? I think it’s really important to meet with photographers in person or have a phone/Skype call with them before booking. Look up your photographer’s Facebook page or Instagram account; this helps give a better idea of the photographer’s style and personality. Ultimately the wedding day is a collaboration between the couple and the photographer, so it helps if you actually like having a conversation with that person. (Photo: Eileen Meny Photography)
  • <p>Nothing upsets/stresses me out more than when clients suddenly stop communicating with me. I said it before: Great wedding photos are really a collaboration between the couple and the photographer. The more you’re on the same page before the wedding, the more likely you’ll love your pics. <i>(Photo: <a href="http://eileenmenyphotography.com/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Eileen Meny Photography;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Eileen Meny Photography</a>)</i><br></p>
    6/15

    Wedding photographer pet peeves?

    Nothing upsets/stresses me out more than when clients suddenly stop communicating with me. I said it before: Great wedding photos are really a collaboration between the couple and the photographer. The more you’re on the same page before the wedding, the more likely you’ll love your pics. (Photo: Eileen Meny Photography)

  • Stay in the know at a glance with the Top 10 daily stories

    Yahoo News is better in the app

    Stay in the know at a glance with the Top 10 daily stories

  • What’s your favorite thing to photograph on a wedding day? Photographing the bride/groom getting ready is one of my favorite parts of the day. There’s a wonderful mix of vulnerability and excitement in that hour that I’m in the room that I love to try to capture. I also love the recessional after the ceremony. And, of course, a great dance party. (Photo: Eileen Meny Photography)
    7/15

    What’s your favorite thing to photograph on a wedding day? Photographing the bride/groom getting ready is one of my favorite parts of the day. There’s a wonderful mix of vulnerability and excitement in that hour that I’m in the room that I love to try to capture. I also love the recessional after the ceremony. And, of course, a great dance party. (Photo: Eileen Meny Photography)

    What’s your favorite thing to photograph on a wedding day? Photographing the bride/groom getting ready is one of my favorite parts of the day. There’s a wonderful mix of vulnerability and excitement in that hour that I’m in the room that I love to try to capture. I also love the recessional after the ceremony. And, of course, a great dance party. (Photo: Eileen Meny Photography)
  • <p>There are so many! I never get bored of <a href="http://www.henricartierbresson.org/en/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Henri Cartier Bresson’;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Henri Cartier Bresson’</a>s work. His portraits in particular are very intimate and beautiful. For wedding photography I’m currently really inspired by <a href="http://www.sammblakeweddings.com/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Samm Blake;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Samm Blake</a>, <a href="http://www.forgedinthenorth.com/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Forged in the North;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Forged in the North</a>, and <a href="http://www.nessakphotography.com/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Nessa K’;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Nessa K’</a>s work. <i>(Photo: <a href="http://eileenmenyphotography.com/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Eileen Meny Photography;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Eileen Meny Photography</a>)</i></p>
    8/15

    What photographers — wedding and otherwise — inspire you?

    There are so many! I never get bored of Henri Cartier Bresson’s work. His portraits in particular are very intimate and beautiful. For wedding photography I’m currently really inspired by Samm Blake, Forged in the North, and Nessa K’s work. (Photo: Eileen Meny Photography)

  • Do you have any advice for people who hate having their pictures taken? It’s OK to have a drink before and/or during the shoot. Stay connected with your partner. I think it’s easier to be photographed with another person because you have someone else to interact with. It’s not a solo show — use them. Hold his/her hand, maintain eye contact, think of an activity to do during the shoot, try to run the details of your first date through your head during the shoot. It helps to keep a narrative going in your head, so that your brain is thinking of something other than what does my left temple look like in this glaring sun. Don’t lock your joints, and remember to breathe. Almost everyone claims to hate having their photo taken. Be original and try to enjoy it. (Photo: Eileen Meny Photography)
    9/15

    Do you have any advice for people who hate having their pictures taken? It’s OK to have a drink before and/or during the shoot. Stay connected with your partner. I think it’s easier to be photographed with another person because you have someone else to interact with. It’s not a solo show — use them. Hold his/her hand, maintain eye contact, think of an activity to do during the shoot, try to run the details of your first date through your head during the shoot. It helps to keep a narrative going in your head, so that your brain is thinking of something other than what does my left temple look like in this glaring sun. Don’t lock your joints, and remember to breathe. Almost everyone claims to hate having their photo taken. Be original and try to enjoy it. (Photo: Eileen Meny Photography)

    Do you have any advice for people who hate having their pictures taken? It’s OK to have a drink before and/or during the shoot. Stay connected with your partner. I think it’s easier to be photographed with another person because you have someone else to interact with. It’s not a solo show — use them. Hold his/her hand, maintain eye contact, think of an activity to do during the shoot, try to run the details of your first date through your head during the shoot. It helps to keep a narrative going in your head, so that your brain is thinking of something other than what does my left temple look like in this glaring sun. Don’t lock your joints, and remember to breathe. Almost everyone claims to hate having their photo taken. Be original and try to enjoy it. (Photo: Eileen Meny Photography)
  • Stay in the know at a glance with the Top 10 daily stories

    Yahoo News is better in the app

    Stay in the know at a glance with the Top 10 daily stories

  • You’re a maker/small-business owner — what’s the biggest sacrifice you’ve made in starting your own business? It’s difficult to separate your life and your business. It’s hard to put the work away when you’re your own boss and providing your own income. Also, health insurance rates are not kind to independent business owners. (Photo: Eileen Meny Photography)
    10/15

    You’re a maker/small-business owner — what’s the biggest sacrifice you’ve made in starting your own business? It’s difficult to separate your life and your business. It’s hard to put the work away when you’re your own boss and providing your own income. Also, health insurance rates are not kind to independent business owners. (Photo: Eileen Meny Photography)

    You’re a maker/small-business owner — what’s the biggest sacrifice you’ve made in starting your own business? It’s difficult to separate your life and your business. It’s hard to put the work away when you’re your own boss and providing your own income. Also, health insurance rates are not kind to independent business owners. (Photo: Eileen Meny Photography)
  • <p>It becomes harder to stay organized the more work that comes in. Easier? Telling people no. <i>(Photo: <a href="http://eileenmenyphotography.com/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Eileen Meny Photography;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Eileen Meny Photography</a>)</i></p>
    11/15

    When it comes to running your own business, what gets easier every year? Is there anything that gets harder every year?

    It becomes harder to stay organized the more work that comes in. Easier? Telling people no. (Photo: Eileen Meny Photography)

  • Do you have a specific memory of a moment when you felt a real sense of victory as a small-business owner? When I officially registered my business. In Kings County, which I happened to do accidentally on Valentine’s Day. The man stamped my registration form and looked up and said, “Good luck!” I was scared but also pretty stoked to get going. (Photo: Eileen Meny Photography)
    12/15

    Do you have a specific memory of a moment when you felt a real sense of victory as a small-business owner? When I officially registered my business. In Kings County, which I happened to do accidentally on Valentine’s Day. The man stamped my registration form and looked up and said, “Good luck!” I was scared but also pretty stoked to get going. (Photo: Eileen Meny Photography)

    Do you have a specific memory of a moment when you felt a real sense of victory as a small-business owner? When I officially registered my business. In Kings County, which I happened to do accidentally on Valentine’s Day. The man stamped my registration form and looked up and said, “Good luck!” I was scared but also pretty stoked to get going. (Photo: Eileen Meny Photography)
  • Stay in the know at a glance with the Top 10 daily stories

    Yahoo News is better in the app

    Stay in the know at a glance with the Top 10 daily stories

  • <p>Yes, and I’m trying to be a little more proactive about it! I love the ocean. I also love taking portraits, which is something I’d like to do more of. I like talking to people, hearing their story, and then trying to figure out a way to photograph them based on our chat. <i>(Photo: <a href="http://eileenmenyphotography.com/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Eileen Meny Photography;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Eileen Meny Photography</a>)</i></p>
    13/15

    Do you still take pictures just for fun? Where do you go to get inspired?

    Yes, and I’m trying to be a little more proactive about it! I love the ocean. I also love taking portraits, which is something I’d like to do more of. I like talking to people, hearing their story, and then trying to figure out a way to photograph them based on our chat. (Photo: Eileen Meny Photography)

  • <p>To keep pursing and researching other art forms. <i>(Photo: <a href="http://eileenmenyphotography.com/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Eileen Meny Photography;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Eileen Meny Photography</a>)</i></p>
    14/15

    Best advice you’ve ever received for being an artist?

    To keep pursing and researching other art forms. (Photo: Eileen Meny Photography)

  • <p>It’s OK to say no. <i>(Photo: <a href="http://eileenmenyphotography.com/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Eileen Meny Photography;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Eileen Meny Photography</a>)</i><br></p>
    15/15

    Best advice you’ve ever received for being a business owner?

    It’s OK to say no. (Photo: Eileen Meny Photography)

On the big day, what are the biggest obstacles that can get in the way of great pictures? The schedule of a wedding day is always tricky, especially if there are multiple locations on the day (getting ready, ceremony, additional photo spot, and reception). Plan ample transportation time to get from one place to another. It means you might have to hire your photographer for an extra hour or two, but otherwise you’ll be stressed trying to fit too much into a short period of time — and so will the photographer, which is not a good set up for great photos. (Photo: Eileen Meny Photography)
<p>Respect the sun. Good lighting is so important for beautiful wedding photos. The best time to take photos is in the two hours before the sun sets. While there are many things that you can change the timing of on a wedding day, the schedule of the sun is not one of them. Try to keep in mind/plan your photos around the light. You won’t be disappointed. <i>(Photo: <a href="http://eileenmenyphotography.com/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Eileen Meny Photography;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Eileen Meny Photography</a>)</i></p>
(Obstacles, cont.) Another thing on lighting: A lot of wedding venues have these windowless suites to get ready in. If possible, try to request a room with great window light. White walls also reflect light beautifully. Also, if possible, avoid uplighting, especially in pink and purple. Keep it simple. (Photo: Eileen Meny Photography)
<p>Getting published in blogs and magazines is all about staying on trend with what’s currently popular and having really beautiful details (rings, dress, shoes, flowers, etc.). Last year was all about boho-chic weddings and flower crowns. I don’t think this year will be too different, but I predict some more metallics and a change with the <a href="https://www.yahoo.com/makers/pantone-announces-2016-color-twist-175201834.html" data-ylk="slk:Pantone colors;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas;outcm:mb_qualified_link;_E:mb_qualified_link;ct:story;" class="link yahoo-link">Pantone colors</a> rose quartz and serenity blue. <i>(Photo: <a href="http://eileenmenyphotography.com/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Eileen Meny Photography;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Eileen Meny Photography</a>)</i></p>
Tips for couples looking for the perfect wedding-photographer fit? I think it’s really important to meet with photographers in person or have a phone/Skype call with them before booking. Look up your photographer’s Facebook page or Instagram account; this helps give a better idea of the photographer’s style and personality. Ultimately the wedding day is a collaboration between the couple and the photographer, so it helps if you actually like having a conversation with that person. (Photo: Eileen Meny Photography)
<p>Nothing upsets/stresses me out more than when clients suddenly stop communicating with me. I said it before: Great wedding photos are really a collaboration between the couple and the photographer. The more you’re on the same page before the wedding, the more likely you’ll love your pics. <i>(Photo: <a href="http://eileenmenyphotography.com/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Eileen Meny Photography;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Eileen Meny Photography</a>)</i><br></p>
What’s your favorite thing to photograph on a wedding day? Photographing the bride/groom getting ready is one of my favorite parts of the day. There’s a wonderful mix of vulnerability and excitement in that hour that I’m in the room that I love to try to capture. I also love the recessional after the ceremony. And, of course, a great dance party. (Photo: Eileen Meny Photography)
<p>There are so many! I never get bored of <a href="http://www.henricartierbresson.org/en/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Henri Cartier Bresson’;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Henri Cartier Bresson’</a>s work. His portraits in particular are very intimate and beautiful. For wedding photography I’m currently really inspired by <a href="http://www.sammblakeweddings.com/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Samm Blake;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Samm Blake</a>, <a href="http://www.forgedinthenorth.com/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Forged in the North;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Forged in the North</a>, and <a href="http://www.nessakphotography.com/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Nessa K’;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Nessa K’</a>s work. <i>(Photo: <a href="http://eileenmenyphotography.com/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Eileen Meny Photography;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Eileen Meny Photography</a>)</i></p>
Do you have any advice for people who hate having their pictures taken? It’s OK to have a drink before and/or during the shoot. Stay connected with your partner. I think it’s easier to be photographed with another person because you have someone else to interact with. It’s not a solo show — use them. Hold his/her hand, maintain eye contact, think of an activity to do during the shoot, try to run the details of your first date through your head during the shoot. It helps to keep a narrative going in your head, so that your brain is thinking of something other than what does my left temple look like in this glaring sun. Don’t lock your joints, and remember to breathe. Almost everyone claims to hate having their photo taken. Be original and try to enjoy it. (Photo: Eileen Meny Photography)
You’re a maker/small-business owner — what’s the biggest sacrifice you’ve made in starting your own business? It’s difficult to separate your life and your business. It’s hard to put the work away when you’re your own boss and providing your own income. Also, health insurance rates are not kind to independent business owners. (Photo: Eileen Meny Photography)
<p>It becomes harder to stay organized the more work that comes in. Easier? Telling people no. <i>(Photo: <a href="http://eileenmenyphotography.com/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Eileen Meny Photography;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Eileen Meny Photography</a>)</i></p>
Do you have a specific memory of a moment when you felt a real sense of victory as a small-business owner? When I officially registered my business. In Kings County, which I happened to do accidentally on Valentine’s Day. The man stamped my registration form and looked up and said, “Good luck!” I was scared but also pretty stoked to get going. (Photo: Eileen Meny Photography)
<p>Yes, and I’m trying to be a little more proactive about it! I love the ocean. I also love taking portraits, which is something I’d like to do more of. I like talking to people, hearing their story, and then trying to figure out a way to photograph them based on our chat. <i>(Photo: <a href="http://eileenmenyphotography.com/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Eileen Meny Photography;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Eileen Meny Photography</a>)</i></p>
<p>To keep pursing and researching other art forms. <i>(Photo: <a href="http://eileenmenyphotography.com/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Eileen Meny Photography;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Eileen Meny Photography</a>)</i></p>
<p>It’s OK to say no. <i>(Photo: <a href="http://eileenmenyphotography.com/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Eileen Meny Photography;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Eileen Meny Photography</a>)</i><br></p>
Alexandra Panzer

Eileen Meny is a Brooklyn-based wedding photographer who tries to capture the beautifully spontaneous moments that make you you.

“The excited grin before the first look, the wind catching your veil, the multiple attempts to tie a bow tie, and the moment you realized you just married your best friend.”

And she has a lot of experience doing it!

We sat down with her to get a few pro tips for couples planning their wedding and struggling with nerves.

As a maker turned small-business owner, Meny also had some tips to share on the highs and lows of turning your hobby into your livelihood.

Also on Yahoo Makers:

Look Closely: This Wedding Photographer Snaps Moments Literally in the Blink of an Eye

Photographer Shoots Entire Wedding on iPhone, and the Results Are Mac-nificent!

DIY Bride Takes Her Own Wedding Pictures — Melts the Internet’s Heart

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