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The Essential Strategies to Capture Every Moment of Your Kerala Wedding

Wedding photographers in Kerala

Wedding photographers in Kerala are tasked with capturing not just the beautiful moments of a couple’s special day, but also the rich cultural traditions, vibrant settings, and unique emotional experiences of a Kerala wedding.

Capturing every moment of a Kerala wedding requires a delicate blend of creativity, tradition and attention to detail. Kerala weddings are known for their elegance, simplicity and deep-rooted cultural customs, which provide plenty of opportunities for stunning photography. Here are some key strategies to ensure you capture every special moment: 

1. Understand the Cultural Nuances 

wedding photographers in Kerala , weddings vary according to religion (Hindu, Christian and Muslim),  each with their own customs and rituals. How to effectively photograph a  wedding in Kerala: 

Learn the rituals: Whether it’s a traditional Nair wedding, a Syrian Christian ceremony or a Muslim Nikah wedding, know the sequence of events.  Communicate with the family: Get insight into specific moments that the family wants to capture. Never miss important rituals like tariketu (tying the wedding knot) in a Hindu wedding, minnu kettu (tying the wedding chain) in a Christian wedding, or  exchange of vows in a Muslim wedding. 

2. Create a shot list 

A comprehensive shot list ensures that you never miss any important moments. 

Pre-wedding rituals: Capture rituals like the bride and groom getting ready, family gatherings, pulikudi (for Hindus) and pre-wedding church prayers (for Christians). 

Main ceremony: Capture important moments like kanyadanam (handing over of the bride),  tying of the thali or minnu, sadhya (traditional celebration), important speeches and blessings. Natural Moments: Kerala weddings are full of intimate family moments. Capture natural emotions, happy laughter, and tender conversations between family members. 

 3. Explore the Venue 

Kerala weddings often take place in lush green nature, historic temples, and picturesque churches. It helps to scout the venue before the event. 

Plan the Shots: Find the best angles and backdrops, especially in traditional Kerala homes and natural landscapes like remote areas, gardens, and beaches.  Understand lighting: Many ceremonies, especially Hindu weddings, take place in the early morning, so natural light should be optimized. Churches may be poorly lit, so be sure to bring the right equipment. 

 4. Highlight traditional clothing and jewelry 

Kerala brides are often seen wearing stunning silk saris and gold jewelry. Take close-up photos of  intricate details, such as the groom’s mundu and traditional Christian attire. Notice the beautiful designs of the kasavu saree, mata patti, and the Christian bride’s white dress and veil. Highlight  accessories that are symbolic of Kerala traditions, such as the minnu, thali, and jasmine flowers. 

5. Use distinctive colors and details 

Kerala weddings are full of vibrant details, from floral decorations to banana leaves, brass lamps, and intricate rangoli designs. These elements contribute to the storytelling. Embrace the natural beauty of Kerala. If your wedding takes place in a remote location, near  palm trees or hills, incorporate them into your photos to convey the local feel.

6. Spontaneous photography instead of staged shots  Kerala weddings are full of emotion and candid moments. While posed shots are essential for family portraits, focus on capturing natural moments filled with laughter, tears and joy. Notice the interactions between the couple, their parents and the guests. These natural emotions  reflect the true spirit of the wedding. 

 7. Capture stunning landscapes with a drone 

Drone photography footage can capture the majesty of the venue, the guests and the  natural beauty of the surroundings. 8. Don’t miss the Sadya 

The traditional feast or sadya served on a banana leaf is the highlight of a Kerala wedding. 

Recordings: 

 Food Preparation: Footage of chefs preparing authentic Kerala dishes like avial, sambar and payasam. 

 The Feast: Guests enjoy an elaborate meal showcasing traditional Kerala cuisine and  beautiful presentation of the food on banana leaves. 

9. Prepare for the Kerala Weather 

Kerala has a tropical climate, so you’ll need to be prepared for both sun and rain, especially if it’s a monsoon wedding. Be sure to wear protective gear on your equipment and use natural light whenever possible. 

10. Document the Farewell 

Vidupalikaram, or the departure of the bride, is an emotional moment in Hindu and Christian weddings. The tearful farewell and  final goodbye is often one of the most moving moments of the day.  Bonus Tips: 

 Make use of natural light: Kerala is known for its soft, golden light. Make the most of natural light if you are shooting outdoors. 

Incorporate local traditions: Feature chenda melam (traditional percussion instrument) or boat rides if they are part of the wedding. 

 Pay attention to the details. The bride’s bangles, intricate mehndi, the groom’s traditional headpiece, and  children  in traditional attire all add to the authenticity. 

 By combining cultural knowledge, creativity, and technical ability, we can capture the essence of a Kerala wedding and beautifully preserve all its meaningful moments and emotions.