Pictures

Can you do the photos before the ceremony? like a first look kind of thing? also shouldnt the photo guy be bringing lights and equipment? when i had my engagement shoot done my guy brought lights

The photographer may be freaking you out because of the opinion given best to get results for the picture location. I do understand that you will get the parking lot in the hotel pictures and that isn't something you want to see unless you have good lighting in the hotel itself. You can take the photographers advice if agreed on the location chosen outside the hotel.

You can choose to decline the photographers advise and proceed with your original plan in the reception hall before your guests enter to sit. This will be the perfect opportunity to choose the hall or anywhere in the hotel that has good lighting to take pictures.

When it came to deciding where our family picture at the ceremony site was to be taken, the photographer knew the sunny spot was perfect which I agreed to do it since his aunt and my mom couldn't move that much on their feet. The videographer suggested a shadowy spot that didn't fit the outlook of a location of my choice or photographer.

Try not to freak out! I know your first instinct is too. In the end it is your decision. She is more likely suggesting that because it would be better lighting and look nicer. However, Either way the photo's will be very beautiful. Regardless of where your doing it at the hotel people will be walking by you when photo's being taken. You could always do inside and outside photo's to get best of both worlds.

Your photographer is a professional and is simply letting you know their professional opinion. At the end of the day, YOU'RE paying THEM, and they will do whatever you want.

I agree with Tori - if that's something you're willing to do. (I myself am a bit of a traditionalist and will not be doing a first look, but I totally get that it makes more sense for some people!)

Don't freak out!!! At the end of they day it's your decision!! However - what about doing a first look picture and then all of the wedding party and immediate family pictures earlier in the day? (Unless you already have hair & mua booked for later in the morning.)