17 Wedding Photography Tips from a Pro

Planning a wedding can feel like juggling a thousand things at once – venues, guest lists, dresses, and yes, the all-important photos!

As a seasoned wedding photographer in Lancashire, I’ve had the honour of capturing countless "I do" moments and the magic that surrounds them.

So, whether you’re a bride, groom, or simply someone who wants stunning wedding photos, I’m here to share 17 golden tips that come straight from years of experience behind the lens.

These aren’t just tips – they’re insider secrets to ensure your big day is as picture-perfect as you’ve always dreamed.

Ready to dive in? Let’s make your wedding photos unforgettable!

Wedding Photography Tips from Your Wedding Photographer in Lancashire

1. Communication is Key

If there’s one thing I can’t stress enough, it’s the importance of clear and open communication between you and your wedding photographer. Trust me, as a wedding photographer in Lancashire, I’ve seen how great communication can make or break the flow of the day – and ultimately, your photos.

Communication isn’t just about sharing your wedding shot list; it’s about building a relationship. Let your photographer know your vibe – whether you prefer posed portraits, natural candids, or something artsy and unique.

The better I know your vision, the more I can tailor my approach to suit you. And don’t forget to mention any surprises you’ve got planned! (Yes, I’m looking at you, flash-mob-first-dancers.)

Ultimately, when you communicate openly, it sets the tone for a stress-free day. You’ll feel confident knowing your photographer is on the same page, ready to capture the magic just the way you’ve envisioned.

2. Let the Experts Do Their Magic

Once you’ve chosen your wedding dream team – your photographer, planner, florist, and more – it's time to let them shine.

As a wedding photographer, I can tell you this: trust is the foundation of creating something truly remarkable. You’ve picked your team for their skills and creativity, so give them the space to work their magic.

Sometimes, you might not immediately see the vision your photographer has in mind, but trusting them can lead to unexpected and stunning results.

Trust also comes into play behind the scenes. For instance, when I’m culling thousands of photos after a wedding, I carefully select the very best ones to edit and deliver.

While it might seem tempting to ask for every single shot taken that day, know that the process of refinement is part of ensuring you receive a gallery that tells your story beautifully – without the distraction of test shots or duplicates.

It’s not just about the photos, either. On your wedding day, your photographer might give feedback to your makeup artist or adjust the way your veil sits to make sure everything looks flawless in the pictures. These small tweaks make a big difference, and they’re only possible when you trust your team to work together seamlessly.

Remember, everyone on your wedding team wants the same thing – to make your day extraordinary. When you let go and trust the experts, it gives them the freedom to create something truly magical for you.

3. Good Things Take Time

Patience, they say, is a virtue – especially on your wedding day! Weddings are magical, yes, but they can also be a whirlwind of activity that doesn’t always stick to the schedule.

As one who has been in this game for quite some time, I can tell you that when time gets tight, the photoshoot is often the first thing to be trimmed. But here’s the thing: great photography takes time, and those moments are worth it.

Let’s face it – delays happen. The ceremony runs over, speeches go longer than planned, or the hair and makeup timeline slips. That’s where a solid plan (and maybe even a wedding planner) comes in handy.

A planner or coordinator can be your secret weapon for keeping everything on track. They’ll gently nudge things back on schedule if needed, giving you more time to soak in the moments that matter, like your portraits.

If a delay does throw the day off, it’s all about priorities. Say your photographer originally asked for 30 minutes for portraits, but you only have 20 now – don’t worry!

Communicate with your photographer about what matters most, whether it’s romantic couple shots, fun bridal party snaps, or family photos. Together, we can make every second count.

Some of the most breathtaking images I’ve captured came from couples who gave me the time and trust to create. Rushing through portraits might save a few minutes, but it can cost you the magic of those once-in-a-lifetime photos.

4. Light Makes the Magic

When it comes to photography, light is everything. It shapes the mood, highlights the details, and brings your photos to life. That’s why consulting your photographer about your venue’s lighting or decoration choices can make a world of difference.

Here’s a quick tip: harsh or overly colourful lighting – like red or fluorescent green LEDs – can dramatically affect skin tones. Imagine a romantic moment between you and your partner, but with unflattering shadows or unnatural hues on your faces. Not ideal, right?

Your photographer has a trained eye for how light interacts with the setting and can guide you to make lighting choices that flatter you and enhance your photos.

Whether it’s choosing softer, warmer lights or adjusting how a spotlight is angled, trusting their expertise ensures you’ll look your absolute best.

5. Create a Shot List for Must-Have Moments

Your wedding day will feel like a blur of joy, laughter, and happy tears, so having a shot list is like creating a treasure map for your photographer. Think about the moments you absolutely can’t miss: your dad seeing you in your dress for the first time, your best friend’s speech, or that magical sparkler send-off.

While I love capturing candid moments, a shot list ensures the must-haves don’t get lost in the excitement. I once worked with a couple who almost forgot to request a photo with their grandparents until we went over their list together. That single image turned out to be their most cherished keepsake.

Keep the list realistic – around 10-15 key shots is ideal – and trust your photographer to handle the rest. We’re pros at finding those in-between gems that you’ll treasure forever, but your list helps us zero in on what matters most to you.

6. Schedule an Engagement Session First

Think of an engagement session as your dress rehearsal for wedding photography. It’s the perfect opportunity to get comfortable in front of the camera, understand your photographer’s style, and even learn your best angles. Plus, it’s a fun way to celebrate your love before the big day!

An engagement session also gives your photographer a chance to learn how you interact as a couple – are you playful? Romantic? Goofy? Knowing these little details helps us tailor your wedding photos to perfectly reflect you.

7. Prepare for All Weather Conditions

Ah, the great British weather – unpredictable at best. Rain, shine, or an unexpected breeze, being prepared for all conditions ensures your wedding day photos are stunning no matter what.

For outdoor weddings, I always recommend having a Plan B, like a covered area or a few large umbrellas that can double as charming props. A couple I worked with once embraced a sudden rain shower, and we ended up with some of the most magical, romantic photos ever—think cosy embraces under a clear umbrella with raindrops sparkling all around.

If it’s blazing sunshine, shade can be your best friend for avoiding harsh shadows and squinting. And chilly days? Wraps and stylish coats can add a chic touch to your bridal look.

At the end of the day, weather is just another part of the story, and with a little preparation, it can make your photos even more memorable.

8. Keep the Getting-Ready Space Tidy

The getting-ready space sets the tone for the start of your wedding day photos. A clutter-free room makes all the difference, ensuring your images are clean, polished, and focused on you.

Take a few minutes to tuck away bags, wrappers, and other distractions. Keep the area by the window clear – natural light is a photographer’s best friend, and we’ll likely position you there for those dreamy prep shots.

A tidy space not only elevates your photos but also creates a calming atmosphere to help you relax and enjoy the moment.

9. Don’t Forget the Details

The small details are what tie your wedding story together. Invitations, rings, shoes, jewellery, and even your perfume bottle – they all deserve their moment in the spotlight.

Gather these items in one place before your photographer arrives to save time and ensure nothing gets missed. These thoughtful touches tell a story of your day’s style and personality, making your gallery feel cohesive and complete. It’s the little things that often become the most cherished memories.

10. Be Comfortable in Front of the Camera

Confidence translates beautifully in photos, and the key to achieving it is comfort. Trust your photographer and allow yourself to relax. Remember, you don’t need to “pose” perfectly – we’re here to guide you into flattering positions while keeping the vibe natural and authentic.

Whether it’s soft laughter, a quiet glance, or a playful moment, your emotions will shine through when you’re at ease. Embrace the moment, focus on your partner, and let your personality take centre stage. Authenticity always creates the most stunning images.

11. Time Your Ceremony for Golden Hour

Golden hour – the soft, dreamy light shortly after sunrise or before sunset – is a photographer’s paradise. If your schedule allows, plan key moments like portraits or your ceremony during this magical time.

The warm glow adds a romantic touch to your photos, creating images that look effortlessly timeless. Trust me, the results are always worth it, and it’s a simple adjustment that can elevate your wedding album to another level.

12. Know Your Best Angles and Preferences

Every couple has unique preferences, and knowing yours can make your photos even more stunning. Whether you have a preferred side, a specific pose you love, or certain insecurities you’d like minimized, share them with your photographer.

This collaboration ensures your images reflect your best self. A skilled photographer will use light, angles, and composition to highlight your favourite features while keeping you comfortable and confident.

13. Involve Your Photographer in Venue Walkthroughs

Including your photographer in a venue walkthrough can make a world of difference in your wedding photos. It gives us a chance to scout the best locations for portraits, assess the lighting at different times of the day, and plan for any logistical challenges.

I once visited a venue with a couple a few weeks before their wedding. During the walkthrough, we discovered a beautiful hidden garden on the property that wasn’t part of their original plan. On the wedding day, it became the perfect spot for their romantic portraits, and they were thrilled with the unique touch it added to their album.

This kind of preparation helps your photographer work more efficiently on the day, so there’s no wasted time trying to find the best spots or adapt to unexpected issues. Even a quick visit can ensure that every shot is intentional, seamless, and perfectly tailored to your venue.

14. Smile Naturally – Not Every Shot Needs to Be Posed

Some of the most captivating wedding photos happen when you’re not even aware of the camera. Genuine moments – a soft laugh, a stolen glance, or a heartfelt hug – capture the true essence of your day.

Don’t feel the need to overthink your expressions or constantly look directly at the lens. Trust your photographer to spot those natural, fleeting moments that tell your story beautifully. A relaxed and natural smile always outshines a stiff, posed one.

15. Limit Guest Photographers During Key Moments

Everyone loves snapping photos at weddings – it’s part of the fun! But too many guest photographers, especially during key moments like the ceremony, can quickly become a problem.

Imagine you’re exchanging vows, and Aunt Sue jumps into the aisle with her iPad, completely blocking the photographer’s shot of that once-in-a-lifetime moment. Trust me, as a professional wedding photographer, I’ve seen this happen more times than I can count.

To avoid this, consider asking guests to put their phones and cameras away during critical parts of the day. Many couples opt for an “unplugged ceremony,” where guests are encouraged to be fully present instead of trying to capture the moment themselves.

This not only ensures your professional photographer gets the perfect shot but also lets your guests immerse themselves in the emotion and beauty of the day.

I once worked with a couple who made this request, and the difference was incredible. The ceremony felt so much more intimate, with everyone focused on the love being celebrated rather than fumbling with devices. And the photos? Absolutely stunning, with no random phones or hands sneaking into the frame.

By setting clear expectations and letting your photographer take the reins, you’ll have a gallery full of uninterrupted, timeless images. After all, that’s what we’re there for – to capture every precious moment while you and your guests simply enjoy them.

16. Make Time for Post-Ceremony Portraits

After the ceremony, taking time for a dedicated portrait session with just you and your partner is a must. It’s a chance to step away from the hustle of the day, breathe, and let your photographer capture intimate, romantic moments.

These portraits are often the highlights of your album, showcasing your connection and love in a more relaxed setting. Schedule enough time to enjoy this part of your day – it’s worth every second.

17. See the Full Picture

Your wedding day is a whirlwind of emotions, moments, and memories – and there’s no room for retakes. That’s why choosing a photographer who can capture the full picture is essential.

From the intimate bride and groom portraits to the bustling dance floor and the intricate details of your décor, every element deserves its place in your wedding album.

When selecting your photographer, don’t just rely on a few glamorous Instagram shots. Always ask to see a full wedding gallery. This gives you insight into their ability to tell the whole story, not just highlight a single aspect.

After all, your wedding isn’t one-dimensional, and your photos shouldn’t be either. By ensuring your photographer has the expertise to capture every detail, you’ll have a complete, timeless collection to cherish forever.

Ready to Capture Your Dream Wedding? We Can Help!

Your wedding day deserves to be remembered in all its beauty, emotion, and magic. As an experienced wedding photographer in Lancashire, I’m here to ensure every moment is captured perfectly.

Let’s work together to create a timeless collection of memories that you’ll cherish forever. Whether it’s the grandeur of a big celebration or the intimacy of a small gathering, I’ll bring my expertise and passion to every shot.

Don’t leave your special day to chance – reach out today to discuss how we can make your wedding truly unforgettable. I can’t wait to be part of your story!