Tips For Getting The Best Wedding Photos | Wedding Photographer Jeff Brummett

Over the years, I’ve learned a lot while photographing weddings. Wedding days can feel overwhelming, but my goal is always to reduce stress, keep things fun, and capture your story in the most meaningful way possible. I want you to enjoy every moment and to love the images we create together. Here are some helpful tips to make that happen:

My Approach

I shoot with a photojournalistic mindset, focusing on genuine moments as they unfold. That said, I also love capturing cinematic portraits where light and composition are everything. Sometimes I’ll guide you into a spot or adjust a pose slightly to get the best result, but I always want you to feel like yourselves.

Personalization is at the heart of what I do. I ask a lot of questions, learn about what matters to you, and stay flexible. Rather than directing every moment, I offer guidance and help you move through the day naturally.

Embrace the Day as It Comes

No wedding day ever goes exactly as planned. Weather changes, timelines shift, and little things get forgotten. That’s okay. Your wedding is still uniquely yours, and that’s what makes it special. Embrace the unexpected, and I’ll be right there capturing the beauty of it all.

Timeline Tips

• Build in more buffer time than you think you need. Hair, makeup, travel, and group photos nearly always run long.
• Keep vendors and wedding party informed about the schedule. The more people know, the better things stay on track.
• If the timeline slips, don’t panic. We’ll adjust as needed. The day is about you, not the clock.

Getting Ready

Think about the vibe you want for your morning. Do you want quiet time with a few close people, or a big, high-energy atmosphere? Make sure the space reflects that. Too many people in one room can get chaotic.

Make sure your bridesmaids and parents are dressed and ready before you put on your dress. Add at least 30 minutes to whatever time your makeup artist gives you to avoid rushing.

Setting Expectations

Talk with your wedding party and family before the big day. Share what you hope the day will feel like and how they can help make that happen. If you want them to be part of any specific moments or traditions, let them know ahead of time.

Have your details ready to go

When I arrive, I usually start with photographing your details. It saves time if everything is gathered in advance. Consider assigning a bridesmaid or planner to help with this.

Here are some commonly included items:

• Invitation suite and stationery (Many times I take this with me to photograph later)
• Shoes
• Dress and veil on a nice hanger (ditch the plastic one)
• Jewelry and both rings
• Perfume or cologne
• Sentimental items (handwritten notes, family heirlooms)
• Welcome gifts
• Groom’s items (watch, cufflinks, bowtie, shoes)
• Loose flowers or greenery from your florist

Keep the Space Tidy

Ask a bridesmaid to help keep the getting-ready area clean. Designate a corner or bathroom for bags, snacks, and water bottles. Clear backgrounds make for better images.

Natural Light for Makeup, etc.

Let your makeup artist know you’d like to sit near a window if possible. Natural light is more flattering than overhead or lamp light and helps keep your skin tone true in photos.

Avoid Orange Indoor Lighting

Most hotel rooms and indoor spaces use warm tungsten lighting — think orange lamps and overhead lights. While cozy in person, this light tends to cast unflattering color and harsh shadows on your face in photos. When possible, we’ll turn off these lights and rely on natural daylight from windows instead. It makes a huge difference in keeping your skin tone looking beautiful and true to life.

Lose the Gum

Please avoid chewing gum once we start taking photos. It’s a small thing, but it can easily ruin a great shot.

First Looks

If you’re doing a first look, allow extra time afterward. We want to avoid doing portraits while guests are arriving. It’s also important to have time to breathe before the ceremony.

The Ceremony

The best time for outdoor ceremonies is one to three hours before sunset. We can talk through the direction of light to avoid shadows and squinting. After the ceremony, we’ll want 15 to 20 minutes for family photos, and at least 20 minutes for couple portraits if possible.

During the Ceremony

• Center yourselves in front of the altar
• Focus on each other, not just the officiant (it’s ok to look at each other and your guests while they are talking)
• Don’t be afraid to show emotion (holding in the tears looks worse than letting them out)

Let Us Know About Special Moments

If you’re planning something fun or unexpected, like a dip at the end of the recessional or a choreographed first dance, give us a heads-up. We want to be in the best spot to capture it. Even a quick mention during prep or the rehearsal makes a big difference in making sure the moment is captured beautifully.

Family and Group Photos

Consider limiting family photos right after the ceremony to immediate family. Larger groupings can be done later in the reception. Have someone from each side help round up people on your list.

When making your list, format it like this:

• Couple with bride’s parents
• Couple with groom’s parents
• Couple with both sets of parents
• Couple with siblings, etc.

Unplugged Ceremony

Ask your officiant to announce that phones and cameras should be put away during the ceremony. This helps keep everyone present and ensures your professional photos are distraction-free.

Take It Slow

Walk slowly down the aisle, up the aisle, into your reception, and during your exit. Take it all in. Rushing through moments makes them harder to photograph and easier to forget.

The First Kiss

Ask your officiant to step aside before announcing the kiss. That way your first kiss photo won’t have a third person in the background.

Golden Hour is Gold for a Reason

If it works with your timeline, I always recommend carving out 15 to 20 minutes around 30 minutes before sunset for some couple portraits. This is when the light is soft and glowy, and it makes everything look a little more romantic and cinematic. It’s also a beautiful pause in the day, a quiet moment to take it all in together. Sometimes this means extending cocktail hour a few minutes so that’s something you might want to take into account.

Reception Tips

I love photographing receptions. I’ll need about 15 to 20 minutes to capture detail shots before guests enter. If timing is tight, we can plan around it.

Make time to sit down and enjoy dinner together. Avoid trying to greet every guest if it means missing key moments. When you’re present and having fun, the energy of the whole night follows.

Don’t Cut the Dance Short

It may feel long, but your first dance should last at least a few minutes. It gives me time to capture the best angles. Try to enjoy it without overthinking.

Dance!

When the couple is dancing, the party stays alive. Ask a friend to grab you drinks or dessert so you don’t have to leave the floor.

I’m Working for You

Everything I do is with you two in mind. If anyone makes a request that doesn’t align with your vision, I’ll always check with you first. You can count on me to support your experience fully.

Looking forward to documenting your story in the most beautiful, genuine way possible.