13 Commonly Forgotten Wedding Photography Details and How to Remember Them
Planning a wedding is a huge undertaking, and in the excitement, some key details can slip through the cracks—especially when it comes to photography! With these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to capture every beautiful, emotional, and unforgettable moment of your big day. Let’s dive into 13 of the most commonly overlooked details in wedding photography.
1. Organizing Detail Shots
Before your photographer arrives, gather items like rings, shoes, jewelry, perfume, and invitations in one spot. This helps start the day smoothly and ensures no precious details are missed.
2. Preparing the Getting Ready Room
Choose a clean, well-lit room for your getting-ready photos. Rooms with natural light make for softer, more flattering shots, so position items near windows for that beautiful glow.
3. Scheduling Extra Time for Hair & Makeup
To avoid rushing, add a time buffer for hair and makeup. This will help everyone stay relaxed and give you time for final touch-ups before portraits begin.
4. Setting Up an Unplugged Ceremony
Want guests to be fully present for your vows? Consider an “unplugged” ceremony where guests refrain from taking photos. This allows your photographer to capture uninterrupted shots of the event without phones in the way.
5. Reserving Rows for Family
Make sure family members know where to sit for the ceremony, especially in reserved front rows. This ensures they’re in the right place for close-up reaction shots of those special moments.
6. Planning for a “First Look”
If you’re doing a “first look,” set aside enough time for photos and any quiet moments together before the ceremony. This intimate moment can create beautiful, genuine photos that you’ll treasure.
7. Creating a Family Photo Shot List
Prepare a list of must-have family photo combinations to share with your photographer. Having these specific shots in mind will make the process efficient and keep everything on schedule.
8. Assigning a Family Helper
Assign a family member to help round up relatives for group photos. They’ll make sure everyone is where they need to be, so your photographer can capture each group without delay.
9. Scheduling Candid Group Shots During Cocktail Hour
To capture those unposed, joyful moments with friends and family, consider setting aside a few minutes during cocktail hour for candid group shots. These images often become some of the most cherished.
10. Planning Reception Lighting
Lighting is essential for stunning photos, especially at the reception. Work with your venue to incorporate uplights, candles, or string lights for an ambiance that photographs beautifully, enhancing the mood of every shot.
11. Considering Table Decor & Clear Space
When arranging table decor, ensure centerpieces aren’t too tall or obstructive. A mix of decor and clear space around tables makes it easy for your photographer to capture wide shots and close-ups without distractions.
12. Scheduling Golden Hour Portraits
The hour before sunset—known as golden hour—creates warm, flattering light for portraits. Setting aside 10-15 minutes at this time allows your photographer to capture you and your partner in this beautiful, natural glow.
13. Planning Your Grand Exit
A planned exit can be a show-stopping end to your wedding story. Whether you’re using sparklers, bubbles, or confetti, coordinate with your photographer to capture the moment perfectly and consider any extra lighting needed for nighttime photos.
Romantic and Unique Wedding Photography
Meet your wedding photographer
Hey there! I’m Adri, a wedding and elopement photographer based in Nashville, Tennessee. My passion is capturing adventurous, intimate, and nontraditional love stories in breathtaking outdoor settings. Whether it’s a stunning elopement in the Smoky Mountains or a cozy wedding in the heart of Nashville, I’m here to turn your day into an unforgettable visual story. If you're ready to start capturing your journey to forever, let’s chat!
