The Complete Studio KH Wedding Guide
Section 11:
Social Hour
If you included a first look earlier in the day, then you’re now free to grab a cocktail and greet your guests, or to sneak off for a private moment with your love. If you skipped a first look, this will be the time of day when we tackle all the remaining portraits. I’ll do my best to get you to the last portion of your cocktail hour, but couples who go this route should not expect to join their social hour.
Shots I’m trying to strategize at this part of the day—
Your details, round 2. Think centerpieces, signs, grazing stations, guestbook, etc. that weren’t already set out for the ceremony. I’ll also be trying to time things just right to nab a wide shot of your empty reception (if it’s a separate space from your cocktail hour) after set-up is fully complete.
Guest candids—my specialty! I aim to feature a healthy portion of the players that I’ve already met— wedding party and family members—but I keep an eye trained on the whole group, watching for reunions and listening for laughter.
Casual group shots, like extended family on Mom’s side. If you notice you’re socializing with a complete group that you’d like photographed, call me over! If you need to round up a specific crew, delegate someone who knows every person needed. You and your new spouse should never be the ones checking to see if absent Uncle Paul is in the bathroom when you need him for a photo. Another option is to save these large group shots for the reception, asking your DJ to invite everyone up for a quick snap.
