Tips for Stunning Wedding Photos
How to Ensure That You Love Your Wedding Photos
Your wedding day is one of the most important and memorable days of your life and having stunning photos to look back on is essential. As a couple, you’ll want to capture the raw emotions, beauty, and little moments that make your day unique. But achieving those breathtaking wedding photos requires more than just showing up with a smile- it takes some planning, preparation, and knowing a few insider tips. In this post, we will share expert advice to help you get the most out of your wedding photography, from posing tips to timing and location suggestions. With these tips, you can ensure that your wedding photos are not only beautiful but timeless.
First of all, make sure you hire a photographer that you trust. A wedding photographer with experience will be able to anticipate when and how the special little unexpected will happen and be able to capture them. They will be able to flow through posing the bridal party so that nobody is exhausted by the time the wedding party photos are finished. And they will be able to guide you through posing in a way that will make you look your absolute best and display your authentic love and joy.
Allie and Alec were married at the Bluegrass Wedding Barn. Her veil was perfect for flying!
Consider a Veil That Flies
One of the most stunning elements you can add to your wedding photos is a veil that catches the wind. As a Lexington wedding photographer, I’ve seen how a flowing veil can add movement and elegance to your pictures, creating a romantic, ethereal feel. Whether you’re getting married in the hills of Lexington’s horse country or at one of the area’s beautiful venues, a veil in the wind can instantly elevate your bridal portraits. When shopping for your veil, look for one with lightweight fabric like chiffon or tulle, which moves beautifully when the breeze picks up. Not only does it make for breathtaking shots, but it also adds a touch of drama and uniqueness to your wedding day photos.
Meredith and Chris were married at the beautiful Polo Barn at Saxony Farm.
Take Time for Sunset Photos
Another great way to ensure that you end up with stunning wedding photos is to plan for sunset shots when creating your wedding timeline. As wedding photographers in Kentucky, we always recommend setting aside time during golden hour- just before sunset- for your portraits. The soft, warm light creates a romantic glow and adds depth and warmth to your images. Whether your exchanging vows on a scenic Kentucky farm or in the heart of Lexington, sunset photos offer a magical, timeless quality that’s hard to replicate at any other time of the day. By coordinating with your photographer and adjusting your timeline, you will be able to capture those breathtaking moments with perfect lighting, making your wedding album truly unforgettable.
If you are one of our clients, feel free to reach out for timeline help. We are happy to work with you to make sure that you have an available moment for sunset photos. Typically our sunset portraits take place during the reception so we only plan to keep you out for 5-10 minutes so that you can get back to your guests and the party quickly!
Justin and Grace had the most amazing sunset on their wedding day at the Legacy at Log Still in Gethsemane, KY!
Schedule an Engagement Session
One of the best tips for ensuring stunning wedding photos is to schedule an engagement session with your photographer. As wedding photographers in Lexington, we find that engagement sessions provide couples with a valuable opportunity to get comfortable in front of the camera before the big day. It allows you to connect with your photographer, experiment with different poses, and discover what feels most natural for you as a couple. Whether you’re shooting in downtown Lexington, at a local vineyard, or on a lovely farm, your engagement session will help you feel more at ease and confident on your wedding day. Plus, it gives you beautiful photos to use for save-the-dates, wedding websites, or even framed prints at your reception.
Olivia and Justin chose the University of Kentucky Arboretum for their engagement session location and it was gorgeous!
Ignore the Camera
Ignoring the camera can be one of the best tips for creating stunning wedding photos. As a Kentucky wedding photographer, I often encourage couples to focus on each other and the moments happening around them, rather than stressing over posing perfectly. The most authentic and beautiful photos are often captured when the couples are relaxed, laughing, and enjoying the day. Whether you’re sharing a quiet moment during the first look or dancing with friends and family at your reception, candid shots often reveal true emotions and make for unforgettable images. By letting go of the pressure to “pose”, you’ll end up with wedding photos that are genuine, heartfelt, and timeless- reflecting the real joy of your special day.
These candid images are from Audrey and Jordan’s Bluegrass Wedding Barn wedding reception.
Prepare List of Family Members
Another way to ensure you get the most stunning wedding day photos possible is to provide your photographer with a list of specific family members you’d like to be included in your portraits. This helps so much with streamlining the process on the big day and no one important is missed. After you have given your photographer your list, make sure to let those family members know they will be needed for photos during specific moments. Typically those moments would be directly following the ceremony, at the ceremony site or at the ceremony site prior to the ceremony. This way everyone is prepared and you won’t have to worry about tracking down relatives on the day of your wedding. By organizing and communicating this in advance, you will save time and ensure that your family portraits are just as memorable as your other wedding photos.
Occasionally we will run into a situation where family members are unable to be present at the place or time appointed. In that case, it is your responsibility to make the photographer aware of the issue and to plan a time and place to take a photo with them. For example, as soon as dinner begins, go to their seat at the reception to grab a quick shot. Because of the very rushed nature of most wedding days, it is helpful to let the family member know, the photographer, and keep it in mind yourself so that it is not forgotten.
Lauren and Dalton’s lovely Christmas wedding took place at Meadowview Weddings and Events in Morehead, KY.
You’re On Your Way to Having Stunning Wedding Photos!
By following these tips, you’ll be on your way to ensuring that your wedding photos are not only stunning but truly reflect the love and joy of your special day. Whether you’re capturing the elegant flow of your veil, soaking in the warm glow of the sunset, or creating beautiful memories during an engagement session, each step helps make your wedding photos unique and personal. As wedding photographers in Lexington, we understand how important these moments are, and we are here to guide you every step of the way. Remember, the key to breathtaking photos is a mix of planning, natural moments, and a bit of trust in your photographer. With these tips in mind, you’ll have photos to cherish for a lifetime.
