15 Wedding Photo Tips from a Happily Married Wedding Photographer!
Your wedding day is a momentous occasion filled with joy, love, and cherished memories. One of the most important aspects of your wedding day is capturing those perfect moments through stunning photos. As a happily married wedding photographer, I've had the privilege of witnessing countless beautiful weddings and capturing those magical moments. I want to share some valuable tips to help you achieve breathtaking wedding photos that will be treasured for a lifetime.
Don't Look for the Camera: While it's natural to be aware of the camera's presence, it's essential to focus on enjoying the moment rather than searching for the lens. By being present and immersed in the joy of your wedding day, you allow your photographer to capture genuine emotions and candid moments that reflect the true essence of your love.
Holding Your Flowers: When it comes to wedding photos, even the smallest details matter. One simple yet effective tip is to hold your bouquet at a slight angle pointing downwards instead of directly in front of you. This allows the photographer to capture your beautiful flowers and not just the stems. Imagine that your flowers are growing out of the bottom of your stomach and a 45-degree angle.
Hair Ties: Do not leave hair ties on your wrist! Make sure to take them off at least half an hour before the wedding to ensure you won't have an impression of your hair tie on your wrist.
Gum: Never chew gum on your wedding day! It’s distracting and takes away from your beautiful smile.
Sunglasses: Bright and sunny days call for sunglasses, and they make a great accessory. When selecting your sunglasses, try to avoid reflective lenses. They will reflect whatever is around them, and it can be distracting in your photos.
No Cell Phones: Cell phones in pockets can be a common sight in wedding photos, and they can distract from the beauty of the moment. Try to leave your phones at home and never keep them in your front pockets!
Look Up: As you walk down the aisle, remember to look up. By looking up, you engage with your surroundings, radiate happiness, and create a sense of connection in your wedding photos.
Marriage License: When signing your marriage license, remember to have a nice pen on hand. This seemingly small detail can enhance the aesthetic of your photos and elevate the significance of this moment. Choose a pen that complements your wedding theme and style, as it will be forever immortalized in your wedding photos.
Practice the First Kiss: The first kiss is a significant moment during your ceremony, and practicing it beforehand can make a world of difference. It allows you to feel comfortable, know your angles, and ensure that your photographer captures the perfect shot of this beautiful moment. Practicing also helps you relax and be more present on your special day, and it can be a lot of fun!
Enjoy A Second Kiss: Consider incorporating the tradition of stopping at the end of the aisle for a second kiss. This brief pause allows for a beautiful photo opportunity and gives you a chance to revel in the excitement and joy of officially being married. The resulting photos capture a genuine and heartfelt moment between you and your partner.
Have An Unplugged Ceremony: Nothing is more distracting in your wedding photos than someone holding up a cellphone or, worse, a tablet. Keep the focus on the day by insisting on an unplugged ceremony.
Plan for Bad Weather: While we all hope for perfect weather on our wedding day, it's wise to plan for the unexpected. If you anticipate rain, consider bringing clear umbrellas for your photoshoot. They can add a touch of charm to your photos while keeping you and you dry.
Photo Checklist: To ensure that all important moments are captured, create a photo checklist in collaboration with your wedding photographer. Discuss your vision, share any specific shots you desire, and highlight the key events you want to be captured. A checklist ensures that no cherished moments are missed and helps your photographer deliver a comprehensive collection of memories so you don't have to worry about a thing!
Mobility Issues: Be aware of your guest mobility issues and prioritize their photos first. For guests with mobility issues, focus more on comfort and accessibility than the background. Remember, what matters is that you're all together.
Snacks & Water: Wedding days can be long and demanding, so don't forget to take a snack break. By ensuring everyone is well-nourished and hydrated, you create a positive atmosphere and keep energy levels high. It's hard to look happy when you're hangry.
Your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime event, and capturing perfect photos ensures that your memories are preserved for generations to come. By following these tips, you'll be well-equipped to create stunning and meaningful wedding photos that reflect the beauty and love of your special day. Remember to enjoy every moment, stay true to yourselves, and may your wedding day be filled with laughter, joy, and everlasting love.
