Start with your own church’s arrangements
Ask the parish or ceremony coordinator about camera positions, lighting, movement and access before and after the service. Share the answers with the photo and film teams. Do not rely on arrangements from another church: the right plan is the one agreed for your ceremony. Make sure the photographer has a contact for any questions that arise before the wedding.
Share the order of service
Let the team know the expected sequence and the moments you particularly want to keep. If there are readings, musical performances or personal elements that matter to you, include them in the brief. Discuss coverage of the entrance, vows, rings and any signing arrangements with the coordinator. The team can then plan positions without interrupting a moment to move equipment.
Keep the family portrait plan practical
If portraits are allowed at the church, confirm the available time and where the groups can stand. Prepare a short list of essential photographs and nominate someone who knows the families to gather people. If there is limited time before the next event, move additional portraits to the reception venue rather than keep everyone waiting without a clear plan.
Give the reception its own rhythm
Preparation, the ceremony and the reception are different parts of the story. Share the timing of entrances, speeches, cake cutting, performances and the first dance where these are part of your plans. Allow a short moment for portraits together before the room fills. If your family would like full recordings as well as a cinematic film, agree those deliverables before the event.