10 Wedding Photography Client Tips Every Couple Should Know Before Their Big Day
As a wedding photographer who’s documented over 800 love stories, I can tell you—beautiful photos don’t just happen.
The best wedding galleries are the result of preparation, trust, and a little insider knowledge.
Whether you’re a couple planning your big day, a photographer prepping your clients, or a planner trying to keep things on track, these 10 tips will make your photo experience smoother, more enjoyable, and (most importantly) more memorable.
1. Create a Solid Timeline with Built-In Breathing Room
Don’t cram your day. Build in buffer time between key events—especially before the ceremony. Rushed photos = stiff smiles. Calm, spacious timelines = magic.
2. Consider a First Look
It’s personal, but if you're unsure—know that a first look can ease nerves, give you more time for portraits, and let you enjoy cocktail hour instead of missing it.
3. Communicate Must-Have Shots Early
Make a short list (emphasis on short!) of non-negotiable moments—like a photo with your grandmother or a special heirloom—and share it with your photographer before the big day.
4. Assign a Family Photo Helper
Designate someone who knows both families (and isn’t in the wedding party) to help gather people during family formals. It’ll keep things moving smoothly.
5. Prep Your Getting Ready Space
Natural light, clutter-free rooms, and coordinated outfits or robes make a huge difference in your getting ready photos. A calm space = a calm energy = better photos.
6. Build in Golden Hour Portrait Time
Schedule 15–20 minutes around sunset for your couple portraits. The lighting is magical—and you’ll love how relaxed and natural those photos feel.
7. Don’t Forget Detail Shots
Rings, vow books, shoes, invites—set them aside in the morning so your photographer can capture them without scrambling.
8. Consider Ceremony Lighting
If your ceremony is indoors or after dark, ask your photographer about lighting. Candles are gorgeous in person, but without proper light, the photos can fall flat.
9. Trust Your Photographer
You’ve hired someone you believe in—trust them. Let them guide you through poses and timelines so you can relax and enjoy being in the moment.
10. Be Present
The best photos happen when you’re not worried about how you look—you’re just living the moment. Let go, be there, and let your joy shine through.
Bonus for Photographers:
Want to send these tips to your couples in a beautifully branded way?
Check out our Wedding Day Prep Guide Template—fully editable in Canva and ready to drop into your client workflow.