Gasparian FOTO

Tag: Wedding Photography

  • Should I do First Look?

    Should I do First Look?

    Should You Do a First Look on Your Wedding Day?

    As a Los Angeles wedding photographer, one of the most common questions I get from couples is: “Should we do a first look?” While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, I want to share why a first look might be the best decision you make for your wedding day—especially if you care about maximizing your photography time and creating a relaxed, joyful timeline.

    What Is a First Look?

    A first look is a private moment where the couple sees each other before the ceremony. It’s intimate, emotional, and often one of the most memorable parts of the day. Instead of waiting until you walk down the aisle, you get to share this moment in a quiet space—just the two of you (and your photographer).

    Why a First Look Can Be a Game-Changer

    • More Time for Photos: Doing a first look opens up the entire pre-ceremony window for portraits. That means we can capture couple shots, bridal party photos, and even family formals before guests arrive.
    • Less Stress, More Joy: With photos out of the way early, you won’t feel rushed after the ceremony. You’ll actually get to enjoy cocktail hour and mingle with guests instead of disappearing for an hour of photos.
    • Authentic Emotions: The first look is often more emotional than the ceremony itself. It’s a chance to connect, breathe, and soak in the moment without hundreds of eyes watching.
    • Better Light, Better Photos: In Los Angeles, natural light is everything. A first look allows us to shoot during the best lighting conditions—especially if your ceremony is later in the day.

    Sources: Gasparian FOTO

    But What If You Want to Keep It Traditional?

    If you’ve always dreamed of that aisle moment, that’s totally valid. Some couples choose to skip the first look to preserve tradition—and that’s okay. Just know that it may compress your timeline and limit your photo opportunities before sunset, especially during fall and winter weddings.

    Final Thoughts

    As a Los Angeles wedding photographer, I’ve seen firsthand how a first look can transform the flow of the day. It’s not just about logistics—it’s about creating space for connection, calm, and beautiful imagery. If you’re on the fence, let’s talk through your timeline and see what works best for your vision.

    Want to see how a first look plays out in real weddings? Check out our sample galleries for inspiration.

  • Hard To Please Clients

    Hard To Please Clients

    As a photographer, dealing with clients who are hard to please can be a challenging and frustrating experience. These clients may have unrealistic expectations, be overly critical, or simply difficult to communicate with. It’s important to understand that dealing with difficult clients is a common part of running a photography business, and it’s important to approach these situations with professionalism and a positive attitude.

    “…very disappointed, in the pictures I was not able to find one of the dishes that we served during the reception”

    One common type of difficult photography client is the one who has unrealistic expectations. These clients may have a specific vision in mind for their photos and expect the photographer to replicate it perfectly, even if it’s not feasible or practical. It’s important to communicate with these clients and manage their expectations from the outset, explaining what is possible and what is not.

    Another type of challenging photography client is the one who is overly critical. These clients may be hard to please no matter what the photographer does, constantly nitpicking and finding fault with the final product. In these situations, it’s important to remain calm and professional, and try to address the client’s concerns in a constructive and positive way. Ultimately, it may be impossible to satisfy these clients completely, but it’s still important to try to meet their needs as much as possible.

    Finally, some photography clients may simply be difficult to communicate with. They may be unresponsive to emails or phone calls, or they may be difficult to understand due to language barriers or other factors. In these situations, it’s important to be patient and persistent, trying different communication methods and approaches until you are able to establish clear lines of communication. Remember that it’s ultimately your responsibility as the photographer to ensure that the client is happy with the final product, so it’s important to work through any communication challenges as best you can.

  • Bridal Hairstyles

    Bridal Hairstyles

    Bridal Hairstyles That Last: Expert Tips from a Los Angeles Wedding Photographer

    Why Your Wedding Hair Matters More Than You Think

    As a Los Angeles wedding photographer, I’ve seen it all—from picture-perfect bridal looks to hairstyles that sadly unravel before the reception even begins. Your wedding day is a marathon, not a sprint. And your hairstyle needs to go the distance.

    Whether you’re getting married in the heart of LA or planning an intimate ceremony in Glendale, one thing remains true: your hair should be as timeless and resilient as your love story.

    The Importance of a Long-Lasting Bridal Hairstyle

    You only have one wedding day. Don’t waste half your morning getting hair and make-up done. Schedule your hairstylist and makeup artist to show up as early as 7 or 8AM. If they cannot guarantee your hair will last all day then get somebody else. If they know what they are doing then your hair should last until midnight.

    Here’s why brides should prioritize a professionally styled, secure hairstyle:

    • Stay-Put Power: Between emotional vows, outdoor breezes, and hours of dancing, your hair needs to be anchored with intention. A seasoned stylist knows how to build a look that lasts.
    • Confidence All Day: When your hair feels secure, you’ll move through your day with ease—no constant mirror checks or emergency touch-ups.
    • Photo-Ready Moments: As a Glendale wedding photographer, I know how crucial it is for your hair to look flawless in every frame—from morning prep to golden hour portraits.
    • Dress Harmony: Your hairstyle should complement your gown’s neckline, silhouette, and overall vibe. Whether it’s a sleek bun or romantic waves, the right choice elevates your entire look.
    Source Pinterest

    Style Inspiration: 100 Bridal Looks That Hold Up

    To help you visualize the possibilities, here’s a curated collage of 100 bridal hairstyles. These styles are not only stunning—they’re built to last through every hug, dance, and candid moment.

    Bridal Hairstyles Collage

    This collection includes:

    • Elegant low buns with pearl accents
    • Soft curls paired with vintage combs
    • Boho braids woven with florals
    • Sleek chignons for modern minimalist brides

    Each look has been captured by a Los Angeles wedding photographer who understands how hair translates on camera—because beauty should never fade halfway through your celebration.

    Pro Tips for Brides

    • Schedule a Trial: Book a hair trial at least a month before your wedding. Wear the style for a few hours to test its durability.
    • Weather-Proofing: If you’re planning an outdoor ceremony in Glendale or anywhere in Southern California, ask your stylist about humidity-resistant products and secure pinning techniques.
    • Emergency Kit: Have a bridesmaid carry a mini kit with bobby pins, hairspray, and a small comb—just in case.

    Final Thoughts from a Glendale Wedding Photographer

    Your bridal hairstyle isn’t just about looking good—it’s about feeling unstoppable. With the right stylist and a style built to last, you’ll glide through your wedding day with grace, confidence, and zero hair worries.

    As a Glendale wedding photographer, I always remind brides: your hair is part of your story. Make sure it’s styled to stay strong from the aisle to the afterparty.

    Need help choosing a style that suits your dress and vibe? Let’s chat—I’d love to help you find the perfect look that photographs beautifully and lasts all day.

    Would you like help turning this into a social media caption or email teaser next?

  • Are You Paying Thousands Extra Just for a Few ‘Wow’ Shots?

    Are You Paying Thousands Extra Just for a Few ‘Wow’ Shots?

    So, you’re planning your wedding, and photography is a big one on the list. If you’ve got a decent budget, you’ll quickly notice some photographers charge way more than others. We’re talking thousands of dollars more. The question is, why? And is it actually worth it?

    Usually, the big difference with those really high-end photographers comes down to their specific “style.” You see it on their Instagram – maybe it’s super moody, maybe it’s bright and airy, maybe it’s got a vintage look. It looks amazing, cinematic, and it’s easy to fall in love with that vibe and think, “Yes, I want that for my wedding!”

    But here’s the thing to keep in mind: that super distinct style? It mostly gets applied during the part of the day where you and your partner sneak away for photos together – the “romantic” or intimate session. And yeah, those photos are important and often end up being favorites.

    But what about the rest of the day?

    The ceremony, your family photos, all the candid moments at the reception – basically, the hundreds of other pictures you’ll get will not be anything out of the ordinary. Don’t get me wrong, they will be nice and sharp and all that but very similar to what your regularly priced photographer will be delivering.

    This brings us back to the price tag. Is paying an extra $3,000, maybe even $6,000, really worth it just for those handful of cinematic, magazine-like shots?

    For most couples, I’d argue probably not. Now, I’m definitely not saying go hire the cheapest person you can find. There’s a reason people say “you get what you pay for,” and you want someone reliable who knows what they’re doing! Bad photos are forever.

    All I’m saying is that a really good, professional photographer who charges somewhere in the $3,000-$4,000 range can totally capture your day beautifully. They have the skills, the gear, and the experience. Going way above that price point often means you’re paying more for the fancy marketing and that specific ‘look’ for just part of your photos, rather than getting a hugely different result for the whole day.

    So, my take? Getting maybe 10-20 extra “artistic” shots with special editing probably isn’t worth thousands more dollars.

    If the difference was maybe $500 or $1000, sure, maybe splurge. But when it’s thousands? Think hard about whether that money could be better used elsewhere in your wedding budget. Find a solid pro you trust, whose general work you like, and you’ll likely be just as happy with your photos without breaking the bank.

  • Capturing The Perfect Moment

    Capturing The Perfect Moment

    Tips for working with a wedding photographer

    The wedding day is one of the big days in your life, and you want to make sure that every moment is captured perfectly. A great wedding photographer can help make that happen, but it takes more than just hiring someone to get the best possible photos.

    Here are a few tips for working with a wedding photographer in Los Angeles to capture the perfect moment:

    Find The Right Photographer

    The first step to getting great wedding photos is finding the right photographer for you. Do your research and find a photographer whose style and personality align with yours. Look at their portfolios and read reviews from other couples to ensure that you’re making the right choice.

    Communication Is Key

    Once you’ve found the right photographer, it’s important to communicate with them openly and effectively. Make sure to discuss your vision for your wedding day and be clear about your expectations. Ask questions about the photographer’s process and what they need from you to get the best possible shots. Make sure you’re both on the same page to avoid any misunderstandings on the big day.

    Plan Ahead

    Planning ahead is crucial to getting great wedding photos. Create a shot list with your photographer to ensure that all of the important moments are captured. This will also help keep you on schedule and make the day run more smoothly. Make sure to communicate any changes to the plan with your photographer as soon as possible.

    Relax And Have Fun

    It’s essential to remember that your wedding day is a celebration, and you should enjoy it as much as possible. Relax and have fun, and trust your photographer to capture the perfect moments. The more relaxed you are, the more natural your photos will look.

    Be Open To New Ideas

    Great wedding photographers in Los Angeles are always looking for new and creative ways to capture moments. Be open to trying new ideas and getting creative with your photos. Work with your photographer to come up with unique and memorable shots that truly capture the essence of your special day.

    Final Words:

    Working with a great wedding photographer is the key to capturing the perfect moment on your wedding day. By finding the right photographer, communicating effectively, planning ahead, relaxing and having fun, and being open to new ideas, you can ensure that your photos are everything you’ve ever dreamed of. So, make sure to hire a wedding photographer in Los Angeles, like Gasparian FOTO, who can help you capture the magic of your special day.

  • Wedding Day Timeline

    Wedding Day Timeline

    Creating A Wedding Photography Timeline:
    Tips From A Professional Wedding Photographer

    Wedding photography is an art that requires skill, preparation, and experience. As a Pasadena wedding photographer with years of experience, Gasparian FOTO understands the importance of a well-planned wedding photography timeline. It can make all the difference in capturing the special moments of the day while ensuring that the day runs smoothly.

    A timeline can help you stay organized and focused while capturing candid and posed shots of the happy couple, their family, and friends.

    In this blog post are shared tips on how to create a successful wedding photography timeline. As professional wedding photographers, we have experienced different types of wedding celebrations and have learned how to adapt and overcome any challenge.

    Why Is A Wedding Photography Timeline Important?

    A wedding day is often fast-paced and can be hectic, with many moving parts to coordinate. Having a timeline in place can help you stay on track and ensure that you don’t miss any important moments. A timeline can also help you communicate with other vendors and keep everyone on the same page.

    Factors To Consider When Creating A Wedding Photography Timeline

    When creating a wedding photography timeline, there are several factors to consider. These include the ceremony time, the reception start time, the number of locations involved, the size of the wedding party, and the desired style and types of photos. For example, if the ceremony is in the late afternoon, you may need to schedule the couple’s portraits earlier in the day to take advantage of natural light.

    Tips For Creating A Successful Wedding Photography Timeline

    To create a successful wedding photography timeline, it’s essential to allow enough time for each part of the day. This includes buffer time to account for unexpected delays or issues. Communication with the couple, their planner, and other vendors is also crucial to ensure that everyone is on the same page. Finally, it’s important to be flexible and adaptable as needed, as weddings can be unpredictable.

    Concluding Thoughts:

    As one of the leading Pasadena wedding photographers, Gasparian FOTO knows that creating a successful wedding photography timeline takes planning and attention to detail. By considering the factors involved and following these tips, you can create a timeline that works for your couple and ensures that you capture all of the important moments.
    If you’re looking for a photographer to capture your special day, please don’t hesitate to contact us for more information on our wedding photography services.