Whether it was yesterday, last year, or two decades ago, the memories of your wedding day—filled with emotions, laughter, and unforgettable moments—remain timeless. Naturally, you’d want to cherish these moments for a lifetime.
A beautiful way to do this is by framing your wedding photos. But the question arises: how can you select and frame these moments in a manner that truly captures the essence of the day?
This guide delves into the art of choosing the perfect shots and how to frame them, so they resonate deeply with the soul. Additionally, you’ll discover how experts in framed photo services can elevate this experience for you.
framed prints
The Art Of Selecting Wedding Photos
Every wedding album is brimming with hundreds of photos, but only a select few tug at the heartstrings. Here’s how to identify them:
Candid Moments
These unscripted shots, like your partner wiping away a tear or the spontaneous laughter of your bridesmaids, often hold the most emotion.
Laughing bride and grom on bannister
Embracing Imperfections
Sometimes, it’s the little imperfections—a windswept veil, a child’s curious touch, a cake mishap—that make a photo genuinely memorable and authentic.
bride laughing in amongst purple flowers
Group Dynamics
Photos that capture the interactions among guests, such as a group hug or a shared joke, showcase the collective joy of the occasion.
bridal party being crazy
Symbolic Elements
Look for photos that incorporate significant wedding symbols, like the exchange of rings, the lighting of a unity candle, or a close-up of hands intertwined, emphasizing the commitment and bond formed.
Closeup of bouquet as kiss
Go for photos that tug the heartstrings. If you can’t point them out, don’t shy off from asking experts to help you.
Technical Aspects Of Selecting Photos
Beyond the emotional connection, certain technical elements can elevate a photo’s impact:
Resolution And Clarity
A clear, high-resolution image will always stand out, especially when enlarged. This clarity ensures that even the smallest details, from the intricate patterns on the wedding dress to the emotions in the eyes, are captured in the photo.
Lighting
Natural lighting can enhance a photo’s mood. Take the example of the golden hue during a sunset ceremony. The interplay of shadows and light can add depth, making moments feel even more ethereal.
Composition
Ensure the main subjects are centered and that there’s a balance between the foreground and background. Proper composition guides the viewer’s eye, ensuring that the focal points of the image are highlighted effectively.
Perspective
Unique angles or viewpoints, such as an overhead shot of the couple’s first dance or a low angle capturing the grandeur of the venue, can add depth and intrigue. These perspectives offer a fresh take on familiar scenes, making them memorable.
Color Balance
Ensure that the colors in the photo are vibrant and true to life, avoiding any unnatural tints or shades. Well-balanced colors can evoke the right emotions, making the memories feel as fresh as the day they were captured.
Depth Of Field
A blurred background with a sharp focus on the couple or a significant element can create a beautiful bokeh effect, drawing attention to the photo’s main subject. This technique adds a professional touch, making the subjects stand out against a dreamy backdrop.
Groom filming groom with super 8 video camera
Framing Photos: More Than Just A Border
A frame does more than just encase a photo; it accentuates its beauty. Here’s how to choose the perfect frame for your wedding photos:
Classic Wooden Frames
These timeless pieces complement rustic or vintage-themed weddings. Their natural texture and warmth can evoke feelings of nostalgia and tradition when framing photos.
Modern Metallic Frames
Sleek and chic, they’re perfect for contemporary wedding themes. Their reflective surfaces and clean lines can add a touch of modern elegance to any space, making the photos pop.
Digital Frames
Rotate through your favorite shots to ensure every memory gets its moment to shine. With the added benefit of slideshows and customizable display settings, they offer a dynamic way to relive multiple memories from a single frame.
Handcrafted Frames
Personalized frames, perhaps with your wedding date or a special quote, add a unique touch. Crafted with love and attention to detail, they not only showcase your photos but also the personal story behind them.
When selecting a frame, consider the decor of the room where it’ll be displayed. A baroque frame might look out of place in a minimalist living room, just as a simple frame might be overshadowed in a room with ornate decorations.
Moreover, the matting can enhance a photo’s appeal, creating a visual break between the photo and the frame.
Framed Print
Tying It Up
Your wedding day might last just a few hours, but the memories linger for a lifetime. By meticulously selecting and framing photos, you create lasting mementos that not only decorate your walls but also your heart.
Every time you glance at that framed photo, you’ll be transported back to the joy, love, and bliss of that special day. So, invest the time and thought into this process.
Incorporating sustainability into your wedding doesn’t mean compromising on elegance or beauty. As a wedding photographer of over 400 weddings, I’ve observed the growing trend of eco-conscious ceremonies and can vouch for their authentic charm.
Things to consider when planning eco-friendly weddings
As you set out to weave sustainability into your wedding celebrations, it’s essential to approach each decision with mindfulness. The beauty of eco-friendly weddings lie in the details, and each choice can significantly influence the broader impact on our environment.
Bride in Northern Palm Garden wedding photo
From selecting the decor to coordinating with vendors, keeping eco-conscious principles at the forefront will ensure your celebration is in harmony with nature. Here are some key factors to consider as you embark on this beautiful, green journey –
Choosing an Eco-friendly Venue
The setting of your wedding creates its primary ambiance. Outdoor venues, from lush botanical gardens to serene beachfronts, naturally reduce energy consumption, providing an authentic, organic backdrop.
For those inclined towards indoor celebrations, there’s an increasing number of venues championing green practices such as measures like solar energy and recycling. Even better, some are affiliated with environmental initiatives such as 1% for the Planet, seamlessly blending commitment with celebration.
Try to choose a venue that also cuts down on paper and plastics and any un-necessary waste.
Big Easy radio Wedding Venue
Sustainable Invitations
Digital invitations are convenient, customizable, and completely paper-free. For those partial to traditional paper invites however, choices are available. Recycled or ‘plantable’ options have become increasingly popular.
Plantable cards, which bloom into wildflowers or herbs when planted, offer a dual purpose: conveying information and later, adding a touch of nature to a guest’s garden. Adding QR codes for RSVPs or additional wedding information is both contemporary and eco-friendly.
Wedding invite
Dress and Attire
The most eco-friendly way to dress yourself is to recycle your clothing – one of the more wasteful costs at a wedding tends to be the bridal gown, despite being absolutely beautful, they tend to only be worn once and can use a lot of resources to make. Try second hand stores or hand-me-downs, after all, vintage is on it’s way back to popularity!
Several designers have embraced sustainable materials without compromising on elegance. For the bridal party, the trend of renting outfits is rising. This way, the attire doesn’t just find a one-time use, promoting both fashion and sustainability.
Wedding dress hanging on cottacge
Rings and Jewellery
The symbol of your eternal love can also be a symbol of commitment to the environment. Ethically sourced gemstones and recycled metals are becoming the preferred choice for many couples.
Alternatively, wooden rings or rejuvenated heirloom pieces offer a unique and eco-conscious touch to your wedding jewellery, ensuring your love story is intertwined with nature.
Wedding rings
Decor and Florals
Nature offers a bounty that can beautify any setting. Opting for local and seasonal flowers supports local businesses and reduces transportation emissions. Potted plants are another charming option.
Not only do they serve as decor during the ceremony, but they can also be taken home by guests or the couple, continuing to flourish long after the festivities.
Engagement ring in Australian flowers
Catering and Menu
By choosing organic and locally sourced dishes, you ensure freshness and support local agriculture. A vegetarian or predominantly plant-based menu is another fantastic way to keep things green. And if you’re looking to surprise and delight your guests, edible centre pieces can be both a visual and a fun treat!
Food platter on display
Transportation
Your grand entrance doesn’t have to be a grand emission. Electric cars are stylish and sustainable. If you wish for something more playful, a tandem bicycle is both eco-friendly and photo-worthy. For your guests, consider suggesting carpooling or chartering a bus or shuttle, turning the journey into a shared, eco-friendly experience.
Bridal horse and carriage
Gifts and Favours
Donations to your favourite green initiative can be a meaningful gesture, and can illicit more giving from your guests when stated it’s for a charity.
For tangible gifts, items that can be used and reused, like bamboo cutlery or cloth bags, are both practical and aligned with the theme. Gifting plants is another heartwarming option, signifying growth and nurturing.
Succulent guest gifts
Zero-waste Practices
Every wedding has its share of waste, but with conscious choices, this can be minimized. Using compostable tableware is a start. Planning the food servings meticulously and having a plan for any leftovers, such as community donations, ensures that the celebration remains waste-free.
This approach doesn’t just benefit the environment; it also adds a layer of community involvement and sharing to your celebration.
The food
Hair and Makeup
Opting for cruelty-free and organic beauty products ensures you’re radiant while making a positive choice. Embrace natural beauty with minimalist makeup, letting your genuine joy be the highlight of every photograph.
Bride having makeup done through window
Documentation
Preserving memories needn’t cost the earth. Digital albums are a brilliant way to share and keep your special moments, ensuring longevity without the use of paper. Innovative photography methods, like using drones, can capture the entirety of your eco-friendly setting, providing unique angles and perspectives.
Drone shot from above
Working with Sustainable Suppliers
One of the most impactful ways to ensure your wedding is eco-friendly from the ground up is by partnering with sustainable suppliers who share your vision for a greener celebration.
As wedding photographers, we are proud members of 1% for the Planet. This means we donate a minimum of 1% of all our proceeds to environmental causes. We also carbon offset all our operations, ensuring that every step we take, from photoshoots to post-production, treads lightly on the earth.
1% for the Planet
Collaborating with suppliers that prioritize sustainability doesn’t just align with eco-friendly goals; it amplifies them. These partners, with their green practices, bring expertise and authenticity to your celebration, ensuring that the essence of your big day is both beautiful and responsible.
By weaving in sustainable choices at every step, your wedding day becomes not just a personal celebration, but also a testament to your commitment to a greener world.
How to Find Suppliers for Eco-Friendly Weddings
But how do you find suppliers who resonate with eco-friendly weddings? Here’s a guide to help you in this quest –
Research and Recommendations
Start with a basic online search to identify suppliers in your area who promote eco-friendly practices. Many businesses these days proudly highlight their green initiatives on their websites.
Don’t underestimate the power of word of mouth, either. Ask friends or family members if they know of any suppliers who prioritize sustainability. Recommendations can often lead you to trusted vendors whose eco-credentials have been tried and tested.
Eco-friendly Platforms
There are dedicated platforms and directories online that list eco-friendly wedding vendors, ranging from caterers to florists. Websites or apps focused on sustainable living often feature sections dedicated to events and weddings, making your search more streamlined.
Sneakys wedding photo
Certifications and Affiliations
Check if the supplier has any eco-certifications or is affiliated with environmental organizations, such as 1% for the Planet. Such badges are often a testament to their commitment. Suppliers who carbon offset their operations offer a tangible measure of their environmental responsibility.
Sunset photo of bridal couple in trees
Ask Questions
When you have shortlisted potential suppliers, don’t hesitate to ask them specific questions about their practices. This could include inquiries about the origin of their materials, their waste management procedures, or their energy sources.
Suppliers genuinely committed to sustainability will appreciate your interest and will be transparent about their operations.
The Currant Shed wedding photo
Attend Green Events or Expos
Eco-friendly expos or green-themed events often feature stalls or presentations by suppliers who focus on sustainability. These events are not just informative but also provide an opportunity to interact directly with potential partners, allowing you to gauge their authenticity and passion.
Botanic Gardens Adelaide wedding photo
Check Reviews:
Reviews and testimonials provide real-life feedback on suppliers. While most reviews might focus on the quality of service, some might also shed light on the eco-friendliness of the supplier’s practices, giving you insights from those who’ve already employed their services.
Wedding photo on rocks at sunset
Finding suppliers for eco-friendly weddings may require a bit more time and effort compared to the conventional route, but the results – a wedding that aligns with your values and treads lightly on the earth – are absolutely worth it.
As an Adelaide based wedding photographer, I’ve been lucky enough to witness the magic of countless weddings across our stunning city and our country. Over the years, I’ve seen so many couples find beautiful ways to commemorate loved ones who couldn’t make it to their special day. Today, I’d love to share these heartwarming ideas with you!
Absent Loved Ones Memory Table
Ah, the memory table! What a timeless way to honour those we miss. Perhaps the most common way to commemorate absent loved ones is to put together a beautifully decorated table filled with framed photos, letters, and trinkets belonging to the couple’s loved ones. It was not just a spot for quiet reflection but becomes a gathering point where guests shared stories and reminisce.
Walking past it, the aroma of fresh lilies (Grandma’s favourite) from the Adelaide Central Market would whisk you away. Every element on the table told a story, making it a unique, personal tribute.
Guests pictures
Wedding Program Tributes
Printing a touching tribute in the wedding program is a subtle, yet significant nod to loved ones. An Adelaide couple I photographed in Glenelg had heartfelt notes dedicated to family members alongside their pictures. Guests would read and remember as the ceremony went on.
Often, these tributes add depth to the ceremony, making everyone feel the presence of those dearly missed.
Wedding program
Photographic Memorials
Nothing captures a memory like a photograph, right? Photographic memorials can be done in a range of different ways, perhaps a charm tied to a bouquet, or a wall adorned with printouts of a person’s life.
Even the groom can wear cufflinks with miniature images of his late father, or perhaps a lapel pin. Such gestures ensure that though absent, loved ones are right there in every frame.
Photos on bouquet
Lighting a Candle
A common sight at weddings is a memorial candle, often lit during the ceremony with the celebrant mentioning what it’s for, the flickering flame stands as a beacon, reminding everyone of the spirit of those not with them.
Many believe that lighting a candle allows the spirit to shine bright amidst the celebrations, and it surely adds a soft glow to your wedding photos!
Guests lighting wedding candles
Memorial Jewelry
Jewellery has a way of becoming a part of us. I remember once at a wedding in the Adelaide Hills, the bride wore a locket with a tiny note from her late sister. Every time she touched it, you could feel the bond they shared.
Whether it’s a piece passed down or something new, memorial jewellery is like holding a piece of your loved one close, all day.
bridal jewellery
Using Heirlooms in the Ceremony
One of the most touching weddings in Adelaide I covered showcased a bride wearing her grandmother’s veil. She told tales of her grandma getting it stitched from a boutique in Rundle Mall decades ago.
Incorporating heirlooms can be a beautiful nod to family history and the legacy of love that precedes you.
Bridal veil flying around the couple
Creating a Memory Garden
If your venue has the room, setting up a memory garden filled with potted plants that your lvoed one used to enjoy having aorund is a nice way to honour them. Each plant can symbolise a loved one, and perhaps adorn each with a photo. Guests could stroll, reminisce, or simply sit and reflect amidst nature.
This living tribute not only honours loved ones but also thrives and grows as a testament to enduring love.
Succulant
Reserving a Seat
An empty chair can speak volumes. I remember guests tearing up at a beach wedding in Henley, where a single rose adorned an unoccupied chair with a framed photo, representing the groom’s late mother.
Such gestures, though simple, resonate deeply, ensuring those absent are given their special place.
Chair
Reserving a Seat at the reception
Beyond the traditional empty chair at the ceremony, an empty seat at the reception with the name of a late family member. Flanked by fresh flowers, is a poignant reminder of their presence.
Dedicating such spaces at a reception holds profound significance. It’s a tangible affirmation that, even in their absence, our loved ones still occupy a distinct and honoured place during our most precious moments. In the midst of the joy and festivities, these reserved spots serve as grounding points, offering moments of reflection and deep connection.
guests who could not attend reception
Video or Audio Tributes
One wedding that I fondly remember was the wedding of Michaela & Paddy in Mclaren Vale where the reception featured a video of well wishes from guests all around the world who could not make it. The reactions from Michaela seeing the faces of loved ones talking to her via video was a beautiful addition to the day. The room was filled with laughter and tears as his witty anecdotes and blessings filled the air.
Video or audio tributes can be a powerful way to feel their presence, even from afar.
Incorporating Their Favourite Flowers
What’s more intimate than using flowers that your loved one use to love? Every bouquet and centerpiece can be a fragrant reminder of absent loved ones. Taking it one step further, you may even like in infuse any stattionary with a perfume they used to wear?
Choosing flowers linked to memories or loved ones is a beautiful way to infuse personal touches into your decor.
Wedding cake on display during lunch reception
Bouquet and Boutonniere Tributes
Now, speaking of flowers, I once photographed a groom in Norwood who had a dried petal from his grandmother’s garden enclosed in his boutonniere. It can take the idea of using a simple photo charm attached to a bouquet to another level. While not many people other than yourself might know the significance, it’s still lovely to know in your own mind that your absent loved ones are represented in some way.
Heart shaped Bridal bouquet charm bronze
Crafting a DIY Memorial Keepsake
DIY is what makes a wedding personal and unique to you as a person, or couple! One super-creative couple in Port Adelaide designed beautiful memory pins for all their guests, each pin carrying a miniature portrait of a loved one.
Crafting these keepsakes not only serves as a tribute but also involves family and friends in the process, making it even more special.
Single Oval bridal Charm
Including Them in Photo Sessions
Now, this one’s close to my photographer heart! I once suggested to a bride during their engagement shoot to pose with her late mum’s portrait. The emotional photos captured were poignant and touching.
The absent loved ones you’re including in your photoshoot don’t have to be ‘gone’ either, they may simply not be able to attend your wedding for some other reason! Invite them on a family shoot before your big day, the photos you take may be priceless in the future.
It’s also quite common to recieve the request to photoshop in someone who could not attend, then print off the scene to put on display at the reception.
It’s always a pleasure to help couples in Adelaide find innovative ways to make sure that those who are absent still make it to the photo album.
Family sitting on tree trunk
Floating Lantern Releases
Now unfortunately due to fire concerns, this one – while absolutely awesome in every way! – cannot be done – at least in Australia. However the effect can still be achieved with grounded lanterns or candles placed around a wedding venue. Each lantern can represent a departed loved one, creating a spectacle as their memories illuminate the evening.
Wedding table centrepiece
Memory Quilts and Fabrics
There’s something so warm and comforting about quilts. Crafiting a memory quilt using fabrics from clothes of their late family members can be quite an undertaking, but can make an incredibly heartfelt gift to centerpiece to a reception, perhaps draped over a bench, inviting guests to feel its warmth.
These can serve as a patchwork of memories, each square narrating a different tale of love.
Tribute Toasts
Cheers to the ones we miss! It’s always a touching addition to any speech where you offer a toast to an absent loved one’s memory. You may even go so far as serving their favourite wine for the toast, and tell stories about them as you drink to their memory
Tribute toasts are a great way to ensure everyone raises a glass in loving memory.
Chinese cheers
Creating a Memorial Book
At a vintage-themed wedding, there was this ornate memorial book, where guests could pen down their memories of the departed. Located by the entrance in Burnside, this book was brimming with stories and sketches by the end of the day. The book also doubled as the couple’s guest book so that whever they were to look through they would also be reminded of their absent loved one.
It’s a lasting keepsake, giving guests a chance to contribute their memories and sentiments.
Scrap book
Setting up a Digital Memory Wall
Marrying tradition with technology! Setting up a large TV as a digital wall where photos, videos, and messages related to their absent loved ones played on a loop can be a space-effective and interactive way to honour absent loved ones at your wedding.
A modern twist to remembering the old times – and as their photographer, capturing guests’ reactions to these memories was truly heartwarming.
Livestream viewers
Live Stream the Ceremony
With the ever-improving mobile coverage at many wedding venues, you have the fantastic option to live stream your wedding ceremony right from your smartphone. Most contemporary smartphones are equipped with impressive camera features. So, all you need to do is initiate a video call with the absent guest. Instead of pointing the camera at yourself, simply angle it towards the altar, allowing them to immerse themselves in the real-time events of your special day.
For those who are tech-savvy, consider leveraging platforms like Livestream. By connecting a camera to a computer with internet access, you can broadcast your wedding. The added advantage? many absent guests can join in and witness your joyous moments simultaneously.
This is something SvenStudios offers for free with any wedding we cover as a photographer or videographer.
bride and groom waving to their live stream
Memory Balloon Release
This is another one of those lovely ideas that unfortunately should not be done at a wedding due to littering laws – however you can opt to perhaps fill multiple balloons with helium and release them at your reception hall, to be collected later?
Guests can release balloons with tiny notes attached, sending their wishes skywards for those not with them. The sight of colourful balloons ascending against the sky can be both joyous and emotional.
A simple, yet profound way to send love upwards.
Balloon man
Sewing Tokens into Wedding Attire
Sewing an absent loved one’s handkerchief, or piece of clothing sewn into a wedding dress is a common way to keep a loved one close all throughout a wedding day.
Such gestures are intimate, ensuring that even in the most significant moments, we carry a part of our loved ones with us.
Wedding dress hanging above bridal party
Special Dances in Their Honour
Twirling to tunes that echo memories! I was in awe at a wedding in Prospect where a bride danced to her late father’s favourite song. The DJ played a special setlist commemorating absent loved ones.
The dance floor became a space of remembrance and celebration, making the music even more magical.
Dancing guests
Set up an Audio Reminder
There’s an undeniable power in the human voice. It can evoke memories, feelings, and transport us back to specific moments in time. If the couple had a recording of an absent loved one’s voice perhaps they could set up a telephone that guests could literally pick up the phone and listen to their loved one’s voice.
This can also allow loved ones who are still alive, but not able to attend – be a part of the day by giving them a job to perhaps voice the introduction to an audio guest book, which is a nice way to augent a more traditional guest book with audio of your guests stating their well wishes.
audio guest book
Writing Letters
During a wedding ceremony in the serene Adelaide Park Lands, a groom read aloud a letter to his late best mate. It was filled with shared jokes, promises, and dreams. There wasn’t a dry eye around.
Writing letters provides a voice to the heart’s yearnings, ensuring feelings are shared and acknowledged amidst the wedding joy.
tear jerking
Themed Accessory Stations
A really call bonbonerie idea I’ve come across is a ‘Memory Pin’ station. Guests could pick pins symbolising departed loved ones—like a guitar for a music-loving uncle or a rose for a gardening grandma. It can also be an idea if you’re planning on hosting a photobooth during your reception.
Such stations add a fun, interactive element, allowing guests to wear their memories and spark conversations.
Group using photobooth
Donation Drives
In lieu of gifts, a socially-conscious couple may encourage donations to a charity close to a late relative’s heart, or even perhaps related to cancer if they passed due to cancer (for example). The reception area can showcase a tribute corner with donation details, photos, and stories.
It was a heartening way to transform loss into hope, making a difference in the Adelaide community in the name of their loved one.
Be sure to include a credit card reader too to maximise donations!
Another fun way to do this is have the groomsmen add a secret word into the groom’s speech, or anyone’s speech really, and take ‘bets’ from guests on if they say it or not. Can be a fun way to raise a lot of money 🙂
Speech giver
I hope these ideas inspire all lovebirds to craft a wedding day that is as sentimental as it is celebratory while commemorating absent loved ones. Remember, it’s all about weaving love, memories, and connections into your special day. Cheers to love and the memories we cherish!
There’s something about maternity shoots that just warms my heart. Every bump, every smile, and every tender touch – it’s all about celebrating the miracle of life. And guess what? I had the pleasure of being a part of another fantastic journey right here in Adelaide – the Mt Crawford Maternity Shoot for the radiant Natasha and dashing Jonathan!
I absolutely love working in Adelaide. Every nook and cranny of this great city and surrounding state has a story to tell, so it was pretty exciting to head out to the splendid Mt Crawford Fprest! It’s like Mother Nature herself decided to paint her masterpiece! The forest of Mt Crawford was nothing short of a photographer’s dream – sprawling gum trees, a rugged underbrush, and oh-so-stunning earthy backdrops. Perfect for our soon-to-be parents.
Mt Crawford Maternity Shoot Photos
Every shot taken was a blend of Australia’s raw beauty and the pure love that Natasha and Jonathan share. The way the sunlight pierced through the gum trees, casting gentle shadows, and the gleam in Natasha and Jonathan’s eyes – everything was just spot-on. If someone were to ask me why I love being a photographer in Adelaide, I’d just show them these snaps!
Those of you who have been readiung for a while might remember their wedding? I had the honour of capturing that lovely day a couple of years back. It feels like a full circle, doesn’t it? From their wedding vows to this maternity shoot, witnessing their love story unfold has been nothing short of magical.
COuple walking along path in Mt Crawford forest
Couple maternity portrait
Couple leaning on big gum tree
Pregnant under the gum trees
Pregant lady with man in background
Couple in amongst Australian foliage
Couple maternity photo
Hand on pregnant belly
Traditional Photos
Alongside the classic maternity photos, this session was sprinkled with beautiful traditional elements. As a photographer, these moments speak volumes, adding depth and stories to every frame.
One particular moment that stood out was the delicate New Zealand greenstone pendant, a symbolic piece for the wee one on the way. Its rich green colour stood out beautifully against the earthy tones of Mt Crawford, adding a touch of cultural significance to our shoot.
And then there were the clapping sticks and the traditional wooden bowl. Each element told a story of heritage, of traditions passed down generations, and of a future filled with promise and legacy. These unique touches made this Maternity Shoot resonate on a different level.
Pregnant laying on fallen tree
Couple under a birthing tree
Couple hugs under birthing tree
Couple portrait under birthing tree
Pregnant with flowing red dress
Couple portrait on rocks
Mother gathering water
Couple touching noses
Mt Crawford Maternity shoot
Couple in amongst the pine trees
The entire shoot was a joy to be a part of, and to be invited back into Natasha and Jonathan’s lives, after their wedding and now for such an intimate moment, is truly a blessing. It’s moments like these that make being a photographer a dream come true.
Hello, lovely brides-to-be! Are you dreaming of a breathtaking sunset wedding with golden hues illuminating your special day? If so, you’re in for a treat! Sunset wedding photography can add an enchanting touch to your album, capturing the romance and magic of the moment. But before you say “I do” to a venue, there are a few key considerations you should keep in mind. After all, finding the perfect location for your sunset nuptials will make all the difference in creating those picture-perfect memories you’ll treasure forever.
What is Golden Hour?
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of selecting a wedding venue that complements sunset photography, let’s talk about the concept of “golden hour.” Golden hour is that magical time shortly after sunrise or before sunset when the sun is low in the sky, casting a warm, soft, and golden glow over everything it touches. The lighting during this time is simply dreamy, flattering, and perfect for capturing stunning photos.
Now that you have a grasp of what golden hour actually is, let’s explore what to consider at your wedding venue to maximize your sunset photography experience. Thankfully as a wedding photographer based in Adelaide – one of only a few capital cities in Australia with a coastline that faces west for sunsets we have plenty of wedding venues perfectly suited for perfect sunset wedding photography!
Bride and groom perched on rocks
Sunset Wedding Photography – Things to consider
1. Outdoor Spaces
When scouting for a wedding venue, focus on outdoor spaces that provide unobstructed views of the horizon. A location with panoramic vistas will allow the sun’s rays to cast their captivating colors across your wedding ceremony and reception. Look for gardens, terraces, rooftops, or waterfront areas that offer a clear line of sight to the setting sun. These spaces will create a breathtaking backdrop for your photos and add a touch of ethereal beauty to your wedding day.
Imagine sharing an intimate moment, surrounded by lush greenery, as the sun sets in the distance, painting the sky with a myriad of captivating shades. Your photographer will be able to capture those magical moments as you bask in the warm, romantic ambiance of golden hour.
Don’t forget about the foreground though too – while a magnificent sunset is beautiful in it’s own right, a nice photo also has to take the foreground into account – have a think about what will ‘frame’ the scene within the camera. Hopefully this example below illustrates what i mean better.
Darwin’s Pride rock
2. Natural Elements
To truly make your sunset wedding photography shine, consider venues that boast natural elements such as rolling hills, majestic trees, or serene bodies of water. These elements not only add depth and texture to your photos but also enhance the overall aesthetic of your wedding.
Picture yourself strolling hand-in-hand with your beloved through a meadow, bathed in the soft glow of the setting sun. The warm, golden light filtering through the trees as you exchange loving glances will create an enchanting atmosphere. These natural features provide an incredible opportunity for your photographer to capture your love story in a way that feels timeless and utterly captivating.
Sunset photo of bridal couple in trees
3. Backdrops and Landscapes
The backdrop of your sunset wedding photos can make a world of difference in creating a visual masterpiece. Look for venues with diverse landscapes that offer an array of options for your pictures. Whether it’s a breathtaking mountain range, a serene lake, or a sandy beach, a varied backdrop will add depth and visual interest to your wedding album.
Imagine being framed by a stunning seascape as the sun sets behind you, casting a warm, golden glow across the water. Your photographer will capture the magic of the moment, highlighting the love between you and your partner against this captivating backdrop. The combination of a striking landscape and the romantic lighting of golden hour will result in awe-inspiring photographs you’ll treasure forever.
Queenstown Wedding Photoshoot Photo
4. Venue Policies and Timing
Before falling head over heels for a wedding venue, it’s essential to inquire about their policies regarding sunset photography and the timing of your event. Some venues may have restrictions on outdoor photography or specific areas that are off-limits during golden hour.
Ensure that you have a clear understanding of any limitations or guidelines to avoid any disappointments on your special day. Discuss with your venue coordinator and photographer to ensure they are aligned on capturing those precious moments during sunset. With everyone on the same page, you can rest assured that your photos will be nothing short of magical.
Bride leading groom through long grass
5. Collaborate with Your Photographer
Lastly, remember that your photographer is your ultimate guide to capturing stunning sunset wedding photography. They are experts in understanding lighting, angles, and composition, and they will know how to make the most of your chosen venue. Collaborate with your photographer to discuss your vision, share your preferences, and ask for their professional advice on how to maximize the beauty of golden hour at your venue.
Trust in their expertise and allow them to work their magic. Their passion for their craft combined with your love story and the breathtaking backdrop of your venue will result in photos that reflect the essence of your special day.
Bride and groom in the grass
When it comes to sunset wedding photography, selecting the perfect venue is key. Look for outdoor spaces with unobstructed views, natural elements that add beauty and depth, diverse backdrops for visual interest, and clarify venue policies and timing. Collaborate closely with your photographer to capture the magic of golden hour and create memories that will last a lifetime. With these considerations in mind, you’ll be well on your way to an enchanting sunset wedding filled with love, beauty, and timeless photographs. Happy planning!
