In so many ways, the pandemic gave everyone a new perspective, and a sharper focus on what (and who) really matters. For nearly two years, gatherings were non-existent, virtual, or cautiously small. Now that traveling and gathering are possible again, celebrations are back in full swing.

“People want to be together, and they miss celebrating milestones,” says Ann Marie Casey of AMC Photography Studios. “Pictures with family are important because we haven’t been allowed to be together for so long.”

Some of the lessons and priorities from the pandemic remain. “The pandemic really focused people on family, and made your circle smaller,” Casey tells us. “It’s shone a light on who’s the most important, not just who we have to invite.” People are re-imagining their celebrations in various ways to suit shifting comfort levels. One example Casey describes is splitting what may have previously been a giant party into smaller parts—a fancy luncheon for adults, then a nighttime party just for the kids—to keep capacity low, but joy even higher and more personalized.

Ann Marie describes another silver lining to adjusting the timelines and guest lists of celebrations: “From a photo perspective, it’s been nice to have separate photoshoots on a different day; so that the day of, clients can be fully immersed in the joy of the event and they don’t have to worry about taking pictures.”

Hosting a special event today calls for being flexible and creative. This requires a photographer who is experienced in telling the story of the day: from tiny but special design details to big moments with loved ones that are gathering for the first time in a long time. “A true professional has done this multiple times. They already can anticipate what you want, when you want it, and capture that without you even knowing it,” Casey tells us.

AMC Photography Studios offers expert tips for making sure you get exactly what you want from your photographer. It all starts with communication:

1. When choosing a photographer, ask to see all types of events, in different spaces. Especially with pandemic era events increasingly involving outdoor spaces, this can really make a difference. “Don’t be afraid of inclement weather because sometimes those make the best, coolest, most creative photos,” she advises. Talk to your photographer about inclement weather—are you willing to go outside to get some unique photos?

2. Walk through the timeline with your event photographer, and make sure they know the must-capture moments, details, and people.

3. Likewise, communicate the timeline to your extended family and other important people that you want in planned photos. “Pick a time they have to be there for the photos—but always tell them an earlier time,” she says.

4. If you do not have an event planner, pick someone you trust to be your “touch base” person on the day of the event to field last-minute questions.

5. Give your phone to someone you trust to take photos for you, since you will likely be too busy to do so yourself. “It’s so nice the next morning to wake up and have your camera roll filled with pictures while you’re waiting for your professional photos,” she says.

Hosting special events in 2023 means taking stock of all we have been through and coming together in shared joy. “It really just puts a new spin on what you walk away with when you host an event. Those are your memories you treasure on the mantle.”

 AMC Photography Studios specializes in event and commercial photography. The studio services the Greater Philadelphia area, the Main Line, and Tri-state region. Learn more or book an appointment at www.amcphotostudios.com. AMC Photography Studios supports the Main Line Parent Community.