There’s a million things to think about on your wedding day and a million things you wouldn’t even think to think about – That’s why I’m here! There are things we notice as photographers that we wish our couples would know. Tiny things that help them be more immersed in the day – over the next few weeks, I’m going to be sharing some of my tips to not only help you be more attuned to your day, but also to help get those moments photographed the way you want.

Let’s start with 5 tips for perfect wedding ceremony photos:

1. Walk slowly as you come down the aisle: Like when you think it’s slow, go even slower. Soak it alllllll in. Look at your person at the end of the aisle. Look at your guests and your parents. Soak in all of the love and don’t be afraid of getting emotional. It’s a very emotional moment and it’s ok to get lost in it. You probably have a hankie for this and for those wearing makeup, your artist did an amazing job to make sure your makeup won’t get ruined

2. Hold your bouquet low as you’re coming down the aisle:

The trick is locking your forearms with your hip bones. If you carry it up high and you’re wearing strapless gown, it can look wild like you don’t have a top on. Not a huge deal, but not the illusion you want

3. Look at your partner, not the officiant:

Don’t forget, you’re promising yourself to your favorite person. Get lost in their eyes and feel all of the feelings. It’s ok to glance over at the officiant of course, especially if it’s a friend or family member of yours who’s sharing something very special with you, but don’t forget to truly connect with your person.

4. Hold that kiss!

Hold that first kiss for a few seconds and truly get lost in the moment. I know a lot of you get married in a church and don’t want to get too wild, but kiss them like you mean it and not with a quick puckered peck like you’re kissing your grandma

5. That just married feeling:

I LOVE an end of the aisle moment and I’ve found a lot of my couples do too! Whether you wave to guests, do a grand dip kiss, or just look at each other and laugh, it’s a great photo moment with all of your loved ones in the background that captures the true excitement of the moment

BONUS:

I can’t even include a photo on this one because I always feel bad calling people out. Ask your guests to put their phones away. Like truly turn them off and tuck them away for real. I know we all live in this digital world where we have to show people where we are (I’m guilty of this too). But remind them that you want to see their faces and for them to truly be present. You invited each and every single one of them for a reason and if you share that all with them, they may be more apt to not hold their cell phone out in the aisle as you come down for their photos. I promise within 48 hours, they will get to see those photos and can even download them off Facebook!

5 tips for perfect wedding ceremony photos

Photos taken at the following Metro Detroit wedding venues as shown:

1. Sweetest Heart of Mary Cathedral
2. Masonic Temple Detroit
3. Marriott Ypsilanti at Eaglecrest
4. Detroit Opera House
5. Whiskey Factory Detroit
6. Westin Book Cadillac

For more wedding tips:

Top 10 Downtown Detroit wedding venues