How to Have the Best Lighting For your Wedding Photos

How to Have the Best Lighting For your Wedding Photos

Disclaimer: As most people know, I am a natural light wedding photographer so what I’m about to share has everything to do with natural light. I don’t use boom sticks or artificial light at receptions, except for a flash if there’s awesome dancing happening!

Okay! So I’ve shot a lot of weddings this year and I have to say one thing about lighting: IT’S REALLY IMPORTANT. So, I’d like to share the top 3 ways you can have the best lighting for your wedding photos, through the eyes of a natural light photographer.

#1) Communicate and Listen to your Photographer.

I get it, wedding planning can be super stressful and you’ll come to a point where you just want to be done with it. But you have to (have to!) communicate with your wedding photographer when it comes to photos and a timeline. They know when sunset is, they know how long photos take, and they know the best time to take everything. So brides and grooms, please communicate with your photographer. Ask them the following:

• When should we do family photos?

• How long do family, wedding party, and bridal portraits take?

• What time do you recommend starting portraits? Or even the Ceremony?

If you’re hiring a professional to document your wedding, then they will be more than happy to give their lighting recommendations so they can make the best magic for your wedding day memories.

#2) Try to not have your ceremony at Blue Hour

In case you’re unaware of this term, Blue Hour refers to the time just after the sun sets. So, when there’s less light around, it makes it harder for our cameras to detect objects and we might have to bring out artificial light sources to be able to capture these epic moments with sharpness.

During Blue hour, it’s always so tricky to bring anything into focus. Plus, since the light quickly fades away during this time, photographers are constantly having to change their camera settings.

If you’re going for a dark and moody style for your wedding ceremony, then be sure to communicate that to your wedding photographer so they can bring the right equipment. If you don’t mind the flashing light, then by all means, you do you!

#3) Face Windows!

In order to make sure your skin looks amazing, and that there is plenty of light on your big newlywed smiles, I highly recommend facing a window (venue layout permitting) if any events will be indoors while it’s still light outside.

If a window is behind you, it’s almost like you’re standing in front of a bright, giant light, which makes your faces darker and harder to capture. But, if you stand facing the light, then your skin will be evenly lit, everyone will be able to see you, and your photos will turn out beautifully.

So for cake cutting, speeches, sitting at the head table, etc., you’ll get much softer lighting and better photos if you’re facing a bright window instead of having your backs against it.

Anyway! Those are just a few hints to get great wedding photos with the best lighting possible. I hope that helps with lighting questions couples planning their wedding day might have!

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