There’s a lot of buzz right now about “Going Unplugged” for your wedding. Between wanting your guests to be present in the moment, a lot of photographers are hopping on the bandwagon and requesting – some are even requiring – that their bride’s weddings be UnPlugged.
Just what does that mean? Going Unplugged means that guests are not welcome to take photos with their own cameras or cell phones during your wedding/ceremony/reception.
From a photographer’s standpoint, it can make a lot of sense. The stories of overbearing relatives trying to pose the family and couple, the photos we take ruined by their flash, the over the shoulder guest who then posts images before the bride and groom even get a chance to see the professional shots… I could go on and on. Even from a couples standpoint it can too – especially if you’re used to being overly plugged into this very “in the moment” social media world. A whole day without devices to just be in the moment and fully experience it – something almost dead and gone anymore.
I bet you’re wondering my take on this, huh? It’s probably not what you think.
I actually was an unplugged bride myself. I saw the merit in it while planning, but I will tell you, on the day of, I missed that social network experience that I was so accustomed to. It felt like friends were missing out. Not only that, I was DYING to see photos from our day.
Because of my experience, I sought out a way to create a solution that would be best of both worlds. Not only do we encourage our brides to consider staying connected, but we provide a customized site and app for each of our couples.
Your guests can download this app on their phones (iPhones and Androids) or even their computer. They use your specialized ID, and can upload images directly to your sharing site so that everyone – not just you – can see them and enjoy them. It’s easy, instant, and a great way to make your guests feel like an important part of your day.
We also upload your engagement photos, and your professional wedding images to this site. Meaning it’ll also be easier for you to share your favorite pro shots with your guests. Everyone wins!
We create customized sharing cards for your big day – and even a fun little photo scavenger hunt for your tables to make sure you get a lot of great shots (and things we may not necessarily shoot) from your day – from every perspective.
We welcome your guests to take photos and be involved – but we still do ask for respect as your hired shooters. We’ll do everything we can to get the most amazing images from your wedding day to compliment this awesome, interactive album from your guests – so you get the whole picture, and nothing less.
So if you’re on the fence about going unplugged, teeter a little more our direction, and don’t limit yourselves or your guests from experiencing your day the way they’re used to. Bring out those phones and those cameras, and share away. We want you to!
