What wedding photographers wish you’d consider when planning your ceremony space
Planning your wedding ceremony? Discover essential tips from a photographer on choosing the perfect ceremony space, from lighting and layout to creating a stunning backdrop for your photos.
Choosing your ceremony space is one of the most exciting parts of planning your wedding, but it’s also one of the most important decisions when it comes to your wedding photos. As a photographer, I’ve seen how small choices can make a big difference in the way your ceremony looks and feels. Here are a few things photographers wish you’d consider when planning your ceremony space.
1. Lighting is everything
Natural light is a photographer’s best friend, and it can make your photos look soft, vibrant, and romantic. If you’re having an outdoor ceremony, consider the time of day. Golden hour—the hour before sunset—provides the most flattering light, while midday sun can create harsh shadows and squinting depending on which direction your ceremony is oriented (more on this later).
If you’re getting married indoors, look for a space with large windows and plenty of natural light. Avoid venues with harsh overhead lighting or bright spotlights that can cast unflattering shadows. Dark venues with twinkle lights as the primary source of light can be romantic, but means your photographer may have to use a flash during your ceremony, which can be disruptive!
2. Think about the backdrop
Your ceremony backdrop will be in nearly every photo, so it’s worth putting some thought into it. Consider what will be behind you as you exchange vows. Natural scenery like trees, mountains, or water always photographs beautifully, while minimal decor can keep the focus on you. Avoid having your ceremony back onto a road, parking lot, or anything that’ll take away from the main focus (you and your partner)!
If you’re getting married indoors, opt for clean, neutral backgrounds or intentional floral installations that complement your wedding aesthetic.
3. Consider your layout
The placement of your ceremony elements can impact the flow of both your wedding and your photos. An aisle that’s too narrow with no outside aisles or space can make it difficult for photographers to capture shots from a variety of perspectives, while a spacious layout allows more flexibility for different angles. This is especially true if you have a photographer and a videographer, as they’ll need space to work around each other! Circular or semi-circular seating can add a unique perspective to your photos and ensure your guests have a clear view.
4. Pay attention to shade and sun
If your ceremony is outdoors, consider how the sun will move throughout the day. You don’t want to be squinting into the sun or standing in a patch of harsh light while your partner is in the shade. Having even lighting across both of you is key for well-balanced photos. A shaded area, like under a tree or canopy, can provide more consistent light and keep you comfortable.
5. Don’t forget about your guests
While thinking about your photos is important, your guests’ experience matters just as much! Make sure they’ll be comfortable by providing shade on hot days, blankets if it’s chilly, or fans for airflow. Consider sightlines as well—your photographer will appreciate an unobstructed view, and your guests will too!
With these tips in mind, your ceremony space will not only look beautiful in person but will also shine in your wedding photos. If you’re getting married in Ontario and have questions about how a space will photograph, I’m always happy to offer my insight. Touch base about how I can help you create a day that’s picture-perfect in every way!