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18May

First Look Photo Session: Pros and Cons

By , May 18, 2023 Advice

At True Photography, we’ve had the privilege of capturing countless first look photo sessions. We understand that the decision to have a first look photo session on your wedding day can be a difficult one. That’s why we’ve put together this post to help you weigh the pros and cons of this popular wedding trend.

First Look Photo Sessions:

San Diego wedding first look photo session photographed by True Photography

Pros:

  1. More Time for Photos: Having a first look photo session before the ceremony allows us to capture more photos of you and your partner. This extra time also allows us to take advantage of the best lighting conditions of the day, resulting in even more stunning photos.
  2. Intimate Moment: A first look is a private moment between you and your partner, away from the hustle and bustle of the wedding day. It’s a chance for you to share a special moment together. Additionally we are able to capture those emotions in a more intimate setting.
  3. Reduced Stress: Seeing your partner before the ceremony can help to ease any nerves or anxiety you may be feeling. It can also help to reduce the stress of the day, allowing you to fully enjoy the ceremony and reception.

Cons:

  1. Tradition: For some couples, the idea of seeing each other before the ceremony goes against tradition. If you or your partner feel strongly about adhering to tradition, then a first look photo session may not be for you.
  2. Timing: Adding a first look photo session to your wedding day timeline can add extra time and planning. This can be challenging if you have a tight schedule or a large bridal party.
  3. Missing Out on the Aisle Moment: Some couples prefer to save the first look for the aisle moment. Seeing each other for the first time as you walk down the aisle can be an emotional and memorable moment. With first look photos that moment could be missed.

Ultimately, the decision to have a first look photo session is a personal one. Overall that choice should reflect your unique style and preferences. At True Photography, we work closely with each of our clients. We always ensure that our clients wedding photography captures the essence of their love story, whether or not they choose to have a first look photo session. Check out our first look photo gallery for more inspiration.

15May

The Prado at Balboa Park

By , May 15, 2023 Venues

At True Photography, we’ve had the pleasure of working at some of San Diego’s most beautiful wedding venues. In this post we want to highlight one of our favorites: The Prado at Balboa Park.

The Prado at Balboa Park

Located in the heart of San Diego, Balboa Park is an iconic landmark that’s home to numerous museums, gardens, and cultural attractions. The Prado is a historic building in the park that has been beautifully restored and is now a popular wedding venue.

Firstly, the architecture of The Prado is stunning. The building was originally built for the 1915 Panama-California Exposition and has since been designated a National Historic Landmark. The Spanish Colonial Revival style of the building features intricate tile work, colorful murals, and ornate details that make for a stunning backdrop for wedding photos.Bride framed by Balboa Park architecture photographed by True Photography

Ceremony/Reception options:

Because The Prado offers a variety of unique spaces it’s perfect for capturing those special moments. The courtyard outside of The Prado is a popular spot for ceremonies and receptions. The space is surrounded by lush greenery and colorful flowers, and the fountain in the center makes for a picturesque focal point. We love to capture the newlyweds in front of the fountain or amidst the greenery.Wedding ceremony in the Casa Del Rey Moro Garden at The Prado in Balboa Park

The indoor spaces at The Prado are just as beautiful as the outdoor areas. The Grand Ballroom is a spacious and elegant room that’s also perfect for large receptions. The high ceilings, ornate chandeliers, and intricate details make for a grand and romantic setting. We love to capture shots of the bride and groom on the dance floor, surrounded by their loved ones and the beautiful décor.The Prado Grand Ballroom in Balboa Park photographed by True Photography

Another unique space at The Prado is the Alhambra Room, which is a smaller, more intimate space for weddings. The room features a beautiful fireplace and intricate tile work, which creates a warm and cozy atmosphere. We love to capture candid shots of the couple and their guests mingling in this space.

Photography Opportunities:

Additionally, one of the biggest advantages of The Prado as a wedding venue is its location in Balboa Park. The park is filled with endless opportunities for beautiful wedding photos. From the botanical gardens to the Spanish Village Art Center, there are countless stunning backdrops to choose from. As photographers, we love to take advantage of the park’s beauty and capture shots of the newlyweds in front of some of its iconic landmarks.The Prado at Balboa Park's iconic courtyard fountain photographed by True Photography

Lastly, in terms of logistics, The Prado is a great venue for weddings of all sizes. The Grand Ballroom can accommodate up to 350 guests, while the Alhambra Room can accommodate up to 120 guests. An outdoor courtyard is perfect for ceremonies and receptions. The venue also provides catering and bar services, which makes planning easier for couples.

Overall, we highly recommend The Prado at Balboa Park as a wedding venue. Its stunning architecture, unique spaces, and beautiful surroundings make for a magical wedding day. Additionally, as photographers, we love the endless opportunities for capturing beautiful and memorable moments at this venue. If you’re looking for a San Diego wedding venue that’s both elegant and unique, The Prado at Balboa Park should definitely be on your list. Check out our Prado gallery for more wedding inspiration! 

12May

How to Get the Best Wedding Photos With a Large Wedding Party

By , May 12, 2023 Advice

Wedding photography is an essential part of any wedding ceremony, capturing all the memories and emotions that will be cherished for a lifetime. However, when you have a large wedding party, it can be challenging to get the perfect shots that capture the essence of the day. At True Photography we have had the opportunity to work with many large wedding parties, and we have learned a few tips that can help you get the best wedding photos in San Diego. 

Choose the Right Location

When your bridal party is large, you need to choose a location that can accommodate everyone and provide ample space for your photographer to take the perfect shots. Look for venues that have ample natural light and plenty of open spaces. San Diego has many beautiful locations for wedding photography, such as Balboa Park, Hotel Del Coronado, and Scripps Seaside Forum.Balboa Park large bridal party photographed by True Photography

Plan Ahead

Planning is key to getting the best wedding photos, especially with a big wedding party. Make sure that you coordinate with your photographer and provide a schedule of events for the day. This will ensure that your photographer is prepared and ready to capture every special moment.Large bridal party captured by True Photography

Communicate with Your Wedding Party

It’s essential to communicate with your wedding party to ensure that everyone is on the same page. Make sure that they know where to be and when, so that your photographer can capture the perfect shots. If you have specific photo ideas in mind, make sure that you communicate them to your wedding party, so that they are aware of what you are looking for.San Diego Bay large wedding party photographed by True Photography

We know how important it is to get the best wedding photos, especially with large wedding parties. By choosing the right location, planning ahead, and communicating with your wedding party, you can ensure that your photos are nothing short of spectacular. So, if you are planning a wedding in San Diego with a large wedding party, keep these tips in mind and get ready to capture memories that will last a lifetime. Check out our bridal party gallery for more bridal party inspiration.

San Diego Wedding Photographer

Wedding Photography San Diego

For over twenty years, True Photography has set the standard among San Diego wedding photographers for innovative, stylish, and timeless imagery. As well, when you are seeking a San Diego corporate event photographer, True Photography leads the way with creative and powerful event photography. Each photographer is hand selected for their creativity, technical knowledge, and charismatic personality. We invite you to view each portfolio, and select the photographer who will best capture your vision for your big event. Your San Diego Wedding Photographer – your San Diego Event Photographer – True Photography. Whether it’s San Diego Wedding Photography or San Diego headshots, or San Diego Events, True Photography will deliver. Check availability: [email protected]

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