Photographer-Approved Ideas for Perfect Wedding Photos

With more than a decade of wedding portraiture in Dayton and surrounding areas, I’ve learned a thing or two about how to prep for great pictures. These images mark one of the most joyous celebrations in your life. Make them count! Below, you’ll find my top ten tips for making your wedding photos look extraordinary.

• Incorporate velvet ring boxes with your wedding colors. This is a clever way to both show off your rings and coordinate with your decor. Plus, they make a wonderful keepsake!
• Uplighting and twinkle lights make a huge difference in photos at the reception. Some DJs offer this as part of their service, so be sure to ask when you’re booking.

• Time bride and groom photos about 30 minutes to one hour before sunset, or step outside during the reception to snap some sunset pics. Make sure not to schedule ceremony time after sunset as you’ll lose significant lighting. Ask your photographer their opinion before deciding on final times.

• Customized wedding dress hangers are a special way to display your gown. You know you will definitely want pictures of the most important dress you’ll ever wear!
• Venue not have great spots for outdoor photos? Check if there are nearby parks that would offer a better outdoor backdrop. Just make sure your photographer knows this ahead of time so you can plan the timeline accordingly.

Photographer Tips for Your Big Day

You don’t have to go out of your way to get beautiful photos of your big day. In fact, sometimes the less complicated, the better. With a little planning (and a lot of communication!) you’ll get wonderful shots.

Here are more of my professional tips for planning and prepping for stunning wedding portraits.

• Bring one of your invitations with you on the day of the wedding. This makes for great detailed shots of shoes, rings, etc. 
• Designate a dress “floofer.” Your photographer will be busy arranging everyone, worrying about correct camera settings, etc. Ask your maid of honor or another member of the bridal party to keep an eye on your dress and view and give it an extra fluff when needed. 

• Encourage your guests to put away cameras and phones during the ceremony. Nothing is worse than a guest stepping into the aisle and blocking the photographer’s shot of the first kiss.
• Ask your ceremony pastor or officiant to step out of the way for the first kiss photo. This will allow your photographer to snap the perfect shot!

•  Don’t forget about glasses! If the bride and groom or an immediate family member have transitions glasses that change to sunglasses in the sunlight, think about wearing a pair that doesn’t do this otherwise your photographs will pay the price. Additionally, consider popping the lenses out or taking the glasses off during the photographs to avoid unavoidable reflections.
  Pro tip: You may have to pay an editing fee to have these things corrected later.

Are you looking for a photographer for your 2022-2023 wedding? My availability is limited – book now!

xoxo, Ashley