Wedding Planning Tip:
How We Capture Stunning Detail Photos That Tell Your Love Story
Your wedding day is a masterpiece in the making—a symphony of emotions, moments, and meticulously chosen details that reflect you as a couple. We believe those details deserve their own spotlight. From the delicate lace of your heirloom veil to the handwritten vows tucked in your pocket, detail photos are the brushstrokes that complete the canvas of your wedding gallery. Here’s everything you need to know to ensure your detail shots are as breathtaking as the day itself, with a classic curated vibe that’s ready to steal the show on your Instagram feed and in your heirloom album.
What Are Detail Photos, and Why Do They Matter?
Detail photos are the close-up, styled shots of the little elements that make your wedding uniquely yours. Think of the engraved bands of your rings nestled in a velvet box, the florals cascading from your bouquet, or the custom signage welcoming guests to your celebration. These images aren’t just pretty—they’re storytelling magic. They capture the textures, colors, and intentions behind every choice you made, preserving the essence of your day in a way that feels both timeless and oh-so-chic. Plus, they’re the perfect way to showcase the artistry of your vendor team, from your florist’s genius to your stationer’s design flair.
Step 1: Curate Your Details with Intention
To get those Insta-worthy detail shots, start by gathering the items that mean the most to you. Think of pieces that reflect your style, your story, and the vibe of your day. Here’s a checklist of must-haves to inspire you:
• Jewelry & Accessories: Your rings (both engagement and wedding bands), earrings, cufflinks, or a sparkling hairpiece. Bonus points for including a family heirloom—like your grandmother’s brooch or your dad’s vintage watch.
• Paper Goods: Your invitation suite (invites, RSVP cards, envelopes), save-the-dates, and any custom signage or menus.
• Florals: A few loose blooms or greenery from your bouquet or centerpieces to add an organic touch to the shots.Pro-tip: Ask your florist for loose blooms to be used for styling.
• Attire Details: The embroidery on your veil, the monogram on your suit jacket, or the delicate buttons on your gown. Don’t forget your shoes—those sparkly heels or custom sneakers deserve their moment!
• Sentimental Touches: Handwritten vows, a love letter to your partner, or a meaningful keepsake (like the ticket stub from your first date). These add a layer of intimacy to your gallery.
• Fragrance & Finishing Touches: Your perfume or cologne bottle, a silk ribbon from your bouquet wrap, or the wax seal on your invites for a luxe, editorial vibe.
Step 2: Timing Is Everything
Detail photos are typically captured during the getting-ready portion of your day, before the ceremony begins. This is when the energy is calm, the light is soft, and we have time to play with styling. To make the most of this window, have your details ready to go when we arrive—ideally in one spot, so we’re not searching for that missing earring while you’re sipping mimosas with your crew. Gather these items in a box or bag and have them ready. This ensures nothing gets missed in the whirlwind of getting ready.We usually need about 30-45 minutes to style and shoot your details, depending on the complexity of the setup. If we are tight on time, we can plan to photograph certain items (like your rings) during a quieter moment later in the day, such as during cocktail hour.
Step 3: Trust the Pros (That’s Us!)
As your wedding photographers, we’re obsessed with making your detail photos a work of art. We’ll scout the best light in your getting-ready space—think a sunlit windowsill or a soft corner away from the hustle—and use our collection of styling tools (like neutral backdrops, ring boxes, and macro lenses) to create images that feel editorial yet authentic. We’ll play with composition, layering your invitation suite with a sprig of eucalyptus or nestling your rings in the folds of your veil for that dreamy, magazine-worthy look. Our goal? To capture details that feel like you—a perfect blend of polished and poetic.
Step 4: Don’t Forget the Little Moments
While we’re styling your flat-lays, we are keeping an eye out for spontaneous details that pop up throughout the day. The way your mom adjusts your veil, the champagne cork from your first toast, or the confetti stuck to your partner’s suit jacket—these unscripted moments add depth to your detail gallery. Let us know if there’s something special you want us to capture, like the embroidery on your “something blue” or the custom label on your wine bottle favors. We’re always on the lookout for those hidden gems that make your day uniquely yours.
Let’s Create Detail Photos That Dazzle
Your wedding details are the threads that weave your day together, and we’re here to capture them with an artistic eye and a trendy flair. From the sparkle of your ring to the ink on your vows, we’ll ensure every element gets its moment in the spotlight. Ready to see your love story come to life through stunning detail photos? So are we!