Details to Give Your Wedding Photographer the Morning Of

The morning of your wedding day is filled with excitement and anticipation. To capture all the beautiful moments and intricate details, it’s important to prepare specific items for your photographer. These little things will help tell the complete story of your day. Here’s a guide on the key personal items and details to give your wedding photographer the morning of your wedding.

1. Rings

Your engagement and wedding rings are central symbols of your commitment and love. Ensure they are accessible for your photographer to capture stunning detail shots. Consider placing them in a beautiful ring box or on a decorative surface that complements your wedding theme.

2. Vow Books

If you’ve written personal vows, provide your vow books. These are deeply sentimental and make for touching photographs, especially if they include handwritten notes. Place them together with the rings or other personal items for cohesive detail shots.

3. Wedding Attire and Accessories

• Wedding Dress and Veil: Hang the dress in a well-lit, uncluttered area. The veil and dress details, like lace or beading, should be easily visible for elegant photos.
• Groom’s Attire: Lay out the suit or tuxedo, along with any accessories such as cufflinks, tie, or pocket square. Ensure the tie or bowtie is pre-tied if it’s intricate.
• Shoes: Both the bride’s and groom’s shoes should be available. These can be photographed alone or alongside other accessories.
• Jewelry: Include all the jewelry you’ll be wearing, such as earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and watches.

Pro-tip! Don’t forget a nice hanger for your attire rather than the original plastic hanger it comes on.

4. Florals

• Bouquet and Boutonniere: Have the bouquet and boutonniere ready early. These floral elements are not only part of your attire but also add color and texture to detail shots.
• Bridesmaids’ Bouquets: If available, provide these too for group detail shots.

5. Invitation Suite

Gather a complete set of your wedding stationery, including the invitation, save-the-date cards, RSVP cards, envelopes, and any other paper goods. This suite tells the story of your wedding’s theme and style, and makes for beautiful flat lay photographs.

6. Perfume and Cologne

The scents you choose for your wedding day are part of the sensory memories. Include the perfume and cologne bottles in your detail shots. These items add a personal touch and are often beautifully designed.

7. Personal Notes or Gifts

If you and your partner are exchanging letters or gifts on the morning of your wedding, ensure these are ready for the photographer. Capturing the moment you read each other’s heartfelt words adds emotional depth to your wedding album.

8. Keepsakes and Heirlooms

Include any meaningful keepsakes or family heirlooms, such as a locket, handkerchief, or other sentimental items. These add personal significance and a sense of tradition to your photographs.

9. Boutonniere and Corsages

Ensure the groom’s boutonniere and any corsages for parents or grandparents are ready. These floral accessories are important details that highlight the people who matter most on your special day.

10. Miscellaneous Items

• Hair Accessories: Any combs, pins, or headpieces that will be part of your hairstyle.
• Garters: If you’re wearing a garter, include it in the items for detailed shots.
• Handwritten Notes: Any notes or special messages you’ve prepared for each other.

Tips for Organizing These Items

• Prepare a Detail Box: Gather all the items in a box or container the night (or two!) before. This ensures everything is in one place and easily accessible for your photographer.
• Inform Your Photographer: Let your photographer know where to find the detail box and any specific instructions for photographing these items.

By providing these specific details and personal items to your photographer the morning of your wedding, you ensure they can capture the essence of your day beautifully. These little things, often overlooked in the hustle and bustle, create a rich tapestry of memories that you’ll cherish for years to come.