How to Get the Best Wedding Ceremony Photos (without even thinking about it)
Your wedding ceremony is a landmark moment in your life. I want you fully in that moment, breathing it in, focusing on each other, without worrying about the photos.
Of course, we still want those photos to be perfect. And I can’t exactly ask you to walk down the aisle again because a bright‑red toastmaster wandered into shot! So let’s lay the groundwork in advance. A few simple choices now mean you can lose yourself in the emotion on the day, knowing the photography is taken care of.
Below is everything you need to know, what to expect from me, and what you can do to make sure your ceremony photos are the very best they can be.
Give Me as Much Freedom as Possible
Ceremonies vary wildly from tiny barns, bright and light glasshouses, candle‑lit chapels to outside settings too. I’ve photographed them all, often with strict restrictions on where I can stand. Whatever the rules, I’ll make it work.
But if you can influence things, remember: the more freedom I have to move, the better the images. Composition, light, and angles are everything. A bit of roaming space lets me find those magical perspectives without interrupting the moment.
Tip: Ask your venue or celebrant about any photography rules well in advance. A quick conversation can open doors, sometimes literally.
Walking Down the Aisle
- Walk slower than feels natural. Adrenaline will make you speed up; consciously slow it down so you can savour the moment (and so I can capture it perfectly).
- Skip the toastmaster fluff. If you’re wearing a dress or veil, get a member of your wedding party to straighten it before the doors open, then let them step aside. You deserve centre‑stage in every frame.
- Look up and breathe. This is your moment – own it.
Hold Hands
When you reach the altar, you don’t have to stand apart like mannequins. Hold hands. Rest a palm on each other’s arms. Share a kiss or a welcoming hug.
- It feels calmer, there’s nothing like a reassuring squeeze.
- It looks far more natural; two people a metre apart can appear stiff and disconnected in photos.
- If you feel like a little cuddle or quick kiss, go for it! Affection translates into beautiful, genuine imagery.
Ceremony Styling & Setup
- Backdrop: Keep what’s behind you simple, florals, greenery, an arch, or a clean wall work wonders.
- Symmetry: Balanced seating and decor help create elegant compositions.
- Lighting: Indoors, aim for soft natural light. Outdoors, consider the sun’s position to avoid harsh midday glare.
Outdoor Ceremonies
Outdoor vows are stunning, romantic, scenic, unbelievably photogenic. A few practical tweaks keep them comfortable and camera‑friendly:
When & where
- Shade is your friend. Dappled or full shade softens light, keeps everyone cooler, and prevents squinting.
- If it’s a hot climate, eg abroad outside of the UK, consider a later‑day ceremony.
Details matter
- Fans or mini‑water bottles on every chair are lifesavers (bonus points for personalised fans).
- Older relatives will especially thank you for a bit of comfort while they sit in the sun.
How (and Why) to Have an Unplugged Ceremony
You hired a professional photographer – let them do the work. Guests don’t need phones blocking the aisle or a guests DSLR popping up in every frame. More importantly, you invited these people to share an intimate moment, not watch it through a screen.
How to prepare for an unplugged ceremony
- Mention it on the invitations so expectations are clear from the start.
- Ask your celebrant/registrar/vicar to remind everyone just before the processional.
- Add a welcome sign (“Please be fully present, phones away until cocktail hour!”). Pinterest is overflowing with cute wording ideas.
- Promise them photos. Let guests know they’ll receive the full gallery afterwards. If they’re sure they won’t miss a shot, they can relax and be present with you.
Be Present, Be Yourselves
Laugh. Cry. Squeeze each other’s fingers. If something funny happens, let the laughter ripple. If a tear sneaks out, wipe it with pride. Authentic emotion is the secret sauce of breathtaking ceremony photos.
In Summary
- Give your photographer room to move.
- Slow that aisle walk.
- Hold hands, always.
- Plan outdoor ceremonies with shade, comfort, and timing in mind.
- Keep phones pocketed for a truly unplugged experience.
- Above all, soak it in – the love, the nerves, the joy. If you’re present, the photos will be perfect.
Take a deep breath, look into each other’s eyes, and let the moment carry you. I’ll handle the rest.
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