As a Las Vegas wedding and elopement photographer, I wanted to share some important tips for getting the best photos from your wedding ceremony. You’ve already heard “have an unplugged ceremony,” which yes you totally should, but there are a few more things worth keeping in mind. Today I’m sharing my top 5 tips for great wedding ceremony photos!

#1 Designate someone to fluff your dress!

If your wedding dress has a train, it will drag behind you as you walk down the aisle and settle however you end up reaching your ceremony spot. Have your maid of honor, family member, friend, or whoever is closest to you at the front, fluff your dress. A quick readjustment to your train once you’re standing in place will ensure your dress looks amazing in ceremony photos! 

Even your photographer would be happy to help with this too! Just ask them!

#2. Remove things from pockets & hair ties from wrists.

Make sure your wedding party members empty out their pockets. Bulky items like phones, wallets, keys, sunglasses, etc., tend to be noticeable in photos! Even just setting them off to the side for photos AND the ceremony will do. 

Most bridal party members have heard of removing hair ties from their wrists, but you’d be surprised how many people still forget to take them off. It’s always helpful to do a hair tie check! 

This one might ruffle the feathers of your health and fitness-obsessed friends, but removing fitness watches and trackers is best! They simply don’t look classy in photos and are obvious. Sorry Apple Watch friends! 

#3. Write down your vows!

I HIGHLY recommend writing down your vows rather than reading them off your phone. It looks SO much better in photos to be holding a small notebook or even a piece of paper in your hand instead of photos of you looking down at your phone! 

Buy a set of vows books that you both commit to using for your vows! Even if you type them out on your computer or phone, you’ll already have a place to transfer them to. You can easily find a set of vow books on Amazon!

#4. Hold your ceremony kiss for 5 seconds! 

Aim to hold your wedding ceremony kiss for 5 seconds! This will give your photo and video team plenty of time to nail the kiss photo. If you give a quick “peck” on the lips, the chances of that exact moment being missed are high! Think about how fast a peck on the lips is. .  . way too fast. 

Hold your kiss for a few seconds or even do a couple extra kisses if that’s more your style! This is a wedding day moment worth practicing beforehand with your partner! 

#5. Stop halfway down the aisle for a 2nd kiss!

When you and your partner are walking back down the aisle as a married couple, stop halfway or at the end of the aisle for a second kiss. If you’re feeling extra spicy, make it a dip kiss. SO cute!

This moment is always fun! Usually, your guests are clapping and celebrating, so they’ll be in the background of your photos as you kiss in the aisle. This is another reason to do an unplugged ceremony because your guests can only clap if their hands are free! 

The wedding aisle kiss is another moment that is helpful to talk about and practice before the big day! 

Bonus Tip:

If you have anything planned for your ceremony, such as a special exit, surprise, or non-traditional moment, make sure to let your photographer know! Photographers are already used to anticipating moments happening, but a heads-up is always appreciated! It ensures that your photographer will mentally know it’s coming and will be ready!

Wedding Photography in Las Vegas

I’m a wedding and elopement photographer based in Las Vegas! I would love to be a part of your dream day, so head to my contact page to get in touch!

For more wedding party tips, check out this blog featuring 5 Must-Have Wedding Party Photos!