Tips bodas | Hyggeweddings by Eva Priego

A few tips before saying "I do"

Hello, couple!

I'm here again to accompany you on this part of the journey. I know the preparations can be exciting and, at times, a little overwhelming. That's why I want to share some tips with you that will help you enjoy the process more and, at the same time, ensure your photographs reflect all the magic you have in mind.

Often, the details that make the biggest difference in the final report are those that seem invisible: the light coming through a window, the calm of a clear room, or simply the permission you give yourselves to be yourselves.

My role isn't just to capture your day, but to guide you so that everything flows naturally. Here are my personal recommendations to make your memories as authentic and special as your own story.

01. The Preparations: Your refuge of calm

The start of the day sets the tone for everything that follows. Those moments when you get dressed, surrounded by your closest circle, deserve a serene atmosphere where light and order allow you to enjoy yourselves without distractions.

Space: Less is more

I recommend that the chosen location be tidy and uncluttered. A visually clean room allows the focus of the photograph to be you, your hands, or your gaze, and not what's on the nightstand.

A visual tip: Choose spaces with neutral colors and avoid overly bold patterns or distracting elements. As I often say: the most important thing is you, not the duvet cover.

Light: Your best ally

Lighting is the soul of photography. Ideally, you should have plenty of natural light. A room with large windows or an open space is the perfect setting to capture the soft textures of skin and fabrics. If natural light is scarce, make sure the space has warm, well-distributed lighting.

Location and Logistics

If your home lacks natural light or space, don't hesitate to book a hotel room or an Airbnb that inspires you. You'll gain in spaciousness, aesthetics, and above all, comfort for your family and yourselves.

Travel time: Try to ensure that the preparation location isn't far from the ceremony. Less time in the car means more time to enjoy a relaxed toast before leaving.
Take advantage of the surroundings: If you're getting married on an estate, make the most of its hidden corners. Sometimes, getting ready at the estate or venue itself eliminates the stress of travel and adds a beautiful visual coherence to the entire photo shoot.

A small ritual

Please prepare your accessories (shoes, rings, perfume, wedding stationery) in a designated area before my arrival. This way, I can photograph them while you enjoy your coffee or a glass of cava without interruption.

Remember: A relaxed atmosphere makes for natural photos. If the environment is harmonious, your attitude will be too.

Your treasures: The magic of details

Before I arrive, I recommend you have a small "details corner" ready with everything you'll be using. This way, I can dedicate the first few moments to photographing each item with the calm and light it deserves, without interrupting you while you enjoy the preparations.

FOR HIM

The suit and shirt (ready on their hanger).
Accessories: Cufflinks, watch, tie or bow tie.
Shoes and socks.
Your favorite cologne.
A copy of the wedding invitation

FOR HER

The dress (out of the garment bag and on a nice hanger if possible).
Shoes and veil.
Jewelry: Earrings, rings and any special detail.
Your favorite cologne.
The bridal bouquet.
A copy of the wedding invitation.

The Value of Small Memories Having these objects gathered together not only saves us time and peace of mind, but also allows me to capture your essence through the details you have so carefully chosen. They are the pieces that complete the puzzle of your story, and by photographing them together, we create a coherent and elegant visual narrative from the very first page of your album.

Time and your image: The harmony of the moment

To ensure I can capture your story in perfect light and without rushing, I recommend that you are already made up and have your hair done (or are in the final stages of touch-ups) when I arrive. This also applies to any family members or close friends who will be present; if they are ready, the atmosphere will be much more relaxed and seamless.

What you wear while you get ready. Although the suit or dress will be the star of the show, the moments beforehand have a special magic. While you finish getting ready, I'll be capturing your connection, so choosing your "pre-wedding" outfit is more important than it seems:

For her: A silk robe, a kimono, or a light garment in neutral tones or colors that flatter your skin. These textures add softness to the photos and allow you to feel comfortable and beautiful from the very first minute.

For him: A linen shirt, a simple polo shirt, or comfortable but stylish clothing in soft colors. Avoid T-shirts with large logos or very bold prints so that nothing distracts from your expression.

Your comfort is the secret. Choosing something you feel comfortable and confident in will not only make you look better in the photos, but it will also help you feel secure. This is your moment of calm before the big "yes," and I want you to see yourselves in the pictures in your most authentic and relaxed form.

The "First Look": Your first meeting alone

If you've decided to have a First Look (seeing each other before the ceremony) or a First Touch (feeling each other without looking), you're creating a moment of absolute calm on your day. It's a moment charged with a unique energy that deserves to be experienced with all your senses.

Atmosphere and Feeling

Your soundtrack: I wholeheartedly recommend having a small speaker ready with your favorite music. The right notes can transform any corner into a cinematic setting, helping you connect and allowing emotions to flow naturally.
Words from the heart: In the intimacy of this encounter, words take on a special weight. If you feel that emotion might overwhelm you, bring a few lines written down to read to each other. These private vows or whispered promises are what capture the true essence of who you are.

The perfect setting

Seek tranquility: The place should be a refuge. Choose a secluded and idyllic spot—a secret garden, a corner with soft light, or a place that has special meaning for you. Ideally, it should be a private place, away from the eyes of guests or vendors, where you can be yourselves without filters.
Absolute presence: My most important advice is to be present. Forget about the camera. Whether you laugh, cry, or simply sit in silence embracing each other, that's what will make the photographs memorable.

A gift for you: This moment will never be repeated. Enjoy it slowly, breathe it in. The calmer and more connected you are, the more natural and vibrant the images we'll cherish forever will be.

02. The Ceremony: Light, emotion and harmony

The ceremony is the heart of the day. To ensure the photographs capture the solemnity and joy of your "I do," it's important to carefully consider the setting where the magic will happen. Here are some tips to make everything perfect:

The dance of light and shadow

Light is the brush that paints your memories. If your ceremony is outdoors, especially in summer:

Seek refuge in the shade: Try to keep both you and your guests out of direct sunlight. The midday sun creates harsh shadows around the eyes that make you look unnatural.
A cohesive aesthetic: If there's no natural shade (trees), neutral-colored umbrellas (off-white, beige, linen) are your best allies. They prevent heat and maintain a soft, flattering light for your skin.

Religious ceremonies: Respect as the foundation

If you're having a church wedding, I recommend speaking with the priest a few weeks beforehand. Some priests are stricter about the photographer's movements. A preliminary conversation ensures that I can work freely and that they feel comfortable, guaranteeing a respectful and calm atmosphere for everyone.

Visual cleanliness and composition

Your position: Try to position yourselves in the center of the altar or stage. Good symmetry not only helps with the overall shots, but also allows your guests to see you better.
Be mindful of technology: Microphones and speakers are necessary, but try to keep them discreet. Handheld microphones or those without bulky stands will help avoid cropping your faces out of the photos.
Details that make a difference: If you need to drink water during the ceremony, ask for glasses or crystal cups. A plastic bottle with flashy labels can ruin the look of a beautiful photo in an instant.

A moment to feel (Unplugged Ceremony)

My most valuable piece of advice: ask your loved ones to put their phones away, at least during your entrance. Trust me, I'll be there to capture every angle. Seeing your friends' smiling or excited faces, instead of a sea of screens, will make your entrance infinitely warmer and more genuine.

Hygge Tip: When the space is free of visual distractions, the only focus is your emotions. Less digital noise means more real connection.

03. The Couple’s Portraits: A moment for yourselves

Many couples fear that the portrait session will take too much time away from their guests. My philosophy is quite the opposite: I want this moment to be your haven of calm, a necessary pause to look into each other's eyes and take in the fact that you are now husband and wife.

With just 30 minutes, I guarantee a complete, natural, and magical set of memories, allowing you to quickly return to celebrate with your loved ones.

When does the magic happen?

The secret to a spectacular photo isn't the pose; it’s the light:

Morning Weddings: Even if we take photos after the ceremony, I wholeheartedly recommend slipping away for 10 minutes during the banquet to capture the sunset. This "Golden Hour" offers a warm, enveloping light that transforms any corner into something cinematic.
Afternoon Weddings: We will take advantage of the soft light right after the ceremony. Emotions are still high, and that is reflected in every glance and every spontaneous smile.

The Ideal Setting

Don’t worry about the location; my job is to find beauty in every corner. Venues usually hide precious spots, but if not, I always have a Plan B. I take care of finding those frames with perfect light where you can feel comfortable.

Note: If you have a specific spot in mind with a special meaning to you, let me know. That day, you make the decisions, and I will happily adapt to your wishes.

Tips to flow

Forget the camera: You don't need to know how to pose. My goal is to capture your chemistry while you walk, talk, or share a hug. The more present you are for each other, the more natural the photos will be.
The beauty of details: In your album, intertwined hands, the movement of a dress in the wind, or a stolen kiss are just as important as the main portrait. It’s the small nuances that truly tell your story.
No rush: We can split the session into small blocks throughout the day. This allows us to capture different lighting, moods, and, above all, different emotions.

Hygge Tip: Treat this time as your first date as a married couple. If you enjoy the moment, the photos will be the perfect reflection of your happiness.

04. The Guests: Shared Moments

We know that group photos can feel like the most tedious part of the day, but they're the memories your family will cherish most. My goal is to make this moment quick, fun, and above all, smooth, so you can get back to enjoying the cocktail hour soon.

The strategy of the groups

Small is better: I recommend organizing groups of 6 to 8 people. This makes the photos more dynamic, ensures everyone looks good, and keeps the process from dragging on. We'll reserve larger groups only for immediate family (parents and siblings).
Group photo: If you have a lot of guests and want to make sure everyone is in the picture without spending hours posing, a group photo from a high vantage point is a fantastic, fun, and very quick option.

Keys to an agile (and stress-free) process

The song challenge: This idea never fails! Choose a high-energy song and let your guests know that we have the song's duration for all the groups to take turns at the photo booth. The result is a moment full of laughter, running around, and incredible energy that will be captured in the photos.
Your allies: Ask one or two friends (those who know everyone and have a good voice) to help you call out to the groups. This allows me to focus on the camera while you focus on smiling, without having to search for anyone in the crowd.
List prepared: Having a pre-made list with the names of the groups will help your allies organize the line seamlessly. That way, you'll just have to rotate and enjoy every hug.

Enjoy the meeting

Don't worry if a group takes a little longer to get organized or if someone gets lost. The most important thing is that you enjoy every person who comes to see you. These photos are a testament to those who were with you on your big day, and although it may seem like a formality now, in a few years they will be priceless treasures.

Logistics and energy for the team

To maintain the pace and attention that your big day requires, it is important to take into account a small logistical detail: the break for lunch or dinner.

As a photographer, I'll be on the move, capturing moments nonstop for many hours. Therefore, to ensure I don't miss any important moments:

Staff Menu: I recommend arranging a "staff menu" (or team menu) with your caterer or restaurant. It doesn't have to be the same as the guest menu, but it should be something substantial that allows me to quickly refuel without leaving the venue.
Close to the action: Ideally, I should be able to eat in a space near the banquet or in the same room. That way, if something unexpected happens (a surprise toast, a speech, or an emotional moment), I'll be ready to capture it instantly.
If no menu is planned: If it is not possible to arrange this meal with the caterer, I will need to take an approximately one-and-a-half-hour break to travel and eat off-site. This would mean that there would be no photographic coverage of the event during that time.

My advice: Planning this detail in advance with your caterer will give you peace of mind knowing that I will be present and full of energy at all times so as not to miss a single detail of your party.

05. The Party: Lights, rhythm and pure life

It's time to let loose! The music gets louder, the atmosphere relaxes, and your only mission is to have fun. To ensure your party photos have that professional, vibrant, and lively look, here are the secrets to a photogenic dance floor:

The importance of a luminous atmosphere

Lighting defines the soul of your party. Investing in quality lighting isn't just about the ambiance, but also about the clarity and vibrancy of your memories.

Warmth above all: Prioritize warm and soft lighting. It creates a welcoming and elegant atmosphere that is incredibly flattering to the skin. Lighting that is too cool or intense green/blue tones can create unnatural complexions.
Focus on the action: Ask your DJ or lighting designer to concentrate the lights on the center of the dance floor. A well-lit dance floor allows me to capture those spontaneous laughs and dances much more clearly.

⚠️ A vital technical note: Be careful with lasers

Although laser effects are popular, they can be deadly for professional cameras. Laser beams can burn out the sensors of mirrorless cameras in a second. To protect your footage, it's crucial that the DJ doesn't use lasers or keeps them turned off during key moments of dancing and photos.

Keys to an unforgettable party

Plan your milestones: If you're planning a grand entrance to the party, a surprise speech, or the cake cutting, let me know in advance. A little foresight allows me to choose the best angle and prepare the equipment so I don't miss a single second.
The perfect toast: If you're going to toast, do it with crystal glasses and make sure your closest friends and family are nearby. The clinking of raised glasses is one of the most powerful and joyful sights of the day.
Lead the dance floor: The energy of the party depends on you. If the bride and groom are the first to dance and enjoy themselves, the guests will follow without hesitation. Those first 20 minutes of dancing are usually the most exciting and fun to photograph.

Hygge Tip: Forget about the camera completely. Jump, hug, and laugh. My job is to chase your joy; yours is simply to feel it.