Wedding Photos: Posing in locations that Capture Your Love Story
I’m often asked by couples and singles alike, how they can make their wedding photos stand out when it's time. It’s no secret that these images are memories that will be cherished for a lifetime. After all, your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and the photos should embody not just the event itself, but the essence of who you are as a couple. I love talking elements of a wedding. I haven't gone to a networking event yet where that's not what carries the conversation. Believe it or not, I have a way I want my day to be filmed and overall photos to look...but most of all, I know how I want to feel, how I want to make him feel and how I want to feel looking back at our moments. Enough about me though....
One of the most important decisions you'll make when it comes to wedding photos is definitely choosing the photographer that will capture your style and energy...but also one who edits to your liking. Goes without saying right? But guess what, locations and poses matter. These two factors are key in telling your story visually and will help ensure that your photos reflect the love, joy, and personality you want to preserve. When you're comfortable with how you look, you feel photogenic and on your best game, when you're in a setting you identify with you're at ease which translates to your poses and smiles. There's nothing worse than looking at 500 photos and you like 2. Luckily that's not the case for my last couple from a reception in November. I'm so impressed with how these turned out. They were such a chill couple and didn't want much...their not wanting much turned out PERFECT.
*How to Choose the Perfect Wedding Photo Locations
A beautiful backdrop, say a yard downtown, downtown and inside a museum, can enhance your photos and evoke that vibe you're hoping to portray. Here are some tips to help you pick the perfect locations:
1. Reflect Your Personal Style
Think about what kind of vibe you and your partner want in your wedding photos. Do you love nature? Consider taking photos in a lush garden, a tranquil forest, or by the ocean. Maybe you both love the urban vibe—an art deco building, a city street with colorful graffiti, or an industrial warehouse might be the ideal spot. Do you want to build the space or would you rather lean into a space already outfitted? My couple was heavy on nature.
2. Consider the Time of Day
The time of day will significantly affect the lighting in your photos. Golden hour (the hour before sunset) is one of the most flattering times to shoot, creating a soft, warm glow. If you're planning an evening wedding shoot, consider nighttime shots with twinkling city lights or under the stars. Morning light, on the other hand, can give a fresh, crisp feeling to your photos. We went for 4pm to 10pm. Most photographers offer 6 hour packages.
3. Tie in Your Wedding Theme
If your wedding has a specific theme, you may want to choose locations that reflect that. For example, if you’re hosting a rustic barn wedding, you might want to take some of your photos on the farm, surrounded by hay bales or in a vintage barn. A more modern, sleek wedding may call for minimalistic, clean backdrops such as urban rooftops or contemporary architecture. My couple's whole vibe was the Natural Science Museum as their favorite place and also the concept of "til death do us part"...thus we were heavy on black!
4. Scout Locations in Advance
While it’s tempting to pick a location on a whim, it’s important to visit your chosen spots in advance. This helps to ensure the place is photogenic, and you can visualize how the photos will look. Also, check for potential logistical issues—like crowds, parking, or any restrictions on photography—so you're fully prepared. Most of the time, the photographer will dissect any place you suggest. That's so helpful. Watch those "Ok" and "Sure thing" photographers. Places that close to the public are ideal...the Museum was perfect.
5. Include Meaningful Places
Consider spots that have significance to your relationship. Maybe it’s the park where you had your first date, or the place where you got engaged. These personal touches will add depth to your photos and make them more meaningful for literal years to come. Not only did my bride once work at the museum, but they as a couple loved it also.
*Choosing the Right Poses for Your Wedding Photos
Posing can sometimes feel intimidating, but it’s all about making you and your partner feel comfortable and relaxed. Here are some tips for choosing poses that will make your wedding photos look stunning:
1. Go for Natural and Candid Shots
While formal posed photos are expected, don’t forget about candid moments! Some of the best photos come from natural interactions, whether it’s laughing together, sharing a quiet moment, or dancing like no one’s watching. These unposed photos will showcase the genuine love and joy you share. I felt my couple brought this energy!
2. Embrace Movement
A little movement can make your photos feel more dynamic and less staged. Try walking hand-in-hand, twirling, or even dancing. The motion will give your images a sense of life and energy. A fun twirl or a playful dip can create a truly magical shot. Photograph like nobody is watching...it's so cool when couples are doing them and the photographer is hidden catching it all. I felt this happened a lot with my couple.
3. Focus on Details
Sometimes it’s the little things that make a wedding photo special. A close-up shot of your hands intertwined, your wedding rings, or a tender moment of you kissing your partner’s forehead can convey so much emotion without being overly posed. These shots can often feel more intimate and raw but I believe it reminds you of just how loved you are and excites you for the years to come.
4. Play with Perspectives
Don’t be afraid to experiment with angles and perspectives. A great photographer will help with this, but you can always ask for a few shots from different vantage points—whether that’s a bird’s eye view, shooting through an archway, or a low angle. Playing with perspective will add variety and interest to your photo collection. I always suggest a photo book and if one is purchased, you'll be so happy that all the photos don't all appear from the same angle.
5. Incorporate Your Personality & Emotions
The best poses reflect the unique dynamics of your relationship. If you and your partner are a bit goofy, don’t be afraid to show that off in your photos. If you’re more reserved, embrace those quiet, intimate moments instead. Poses should feel natural to you, not forced. The goal is to let your personalities shine through, that way it feels most authentic. The most memorable photos are the feeling ones where we can see the joy, the excitement, the love. Key is to be present...I think my couple leaned in.
Relax and enjoy the moment—it’s your big day! The more laid-back and natural you are, the better your photos will be. Choosing the right locations and poses helps capture the essence of your love. Consider your style, theme, and the vibe you want to convey. With a talented photographer and a little planning, your wedding photos will tell the story of your love, of your journey, in addition to your day!
~XOXO