Your wedding ceremony is the heart of your day, where promises are made, tears are shed, and memories are sealed. And as your photographer, I want to make sure those moments look just as incredible as they feel.
Here are my top tips to help you create a ceremony that flows smoothly, feels meaningful, and photographs beautifully.
1. Consider the Light
Outdoor ceremony? Time it around the light. Harsh midday sun can cause squinting and shadows. The best light for ceremonies? Golden hour or shaded areas with even lighting. Ask your photographer to help you choose the perfect time and angle.
2. Unplug the Ceremony
Phones and iPads in the aisle? Not cute.
Ask your guests to put their devices away during the ceremony so the focus stays on you, so I can capture clean, unobstructed shots of the aisle and your reactions.
Pro tip: After the bride walks down the aisle to meet her groom, have your officiant pause the ceremony and invite guests to take 1–2 minutes to snap their photos. Then kindly ask them to put phones and tablets away for the remainder of the ceremony. This way, guests feel included, and your professional photos stay picture-perfect.
3. Talk to Your Officiant About Stepping Aside
After you say your vows and go in for the kiss, ask your officiant to take a small step to the side. That way, your first kiss photo is just the two of you and not your officiant photobombing in the background.
4. Walk Slowly and Pause
Take your time walking down the aisle, soak in the moment, hold hands, smile, and pause at the top for a quick glance or deep breath. These make for the most emotional and natural-looking photos.
5. Look at Each Other (Not Just the Officiant)
This one’s big. During the ceremony, don’t be afraid to look at your partner, laugh, tear up, or hold hands. That connection is what makes the photos feel alive.
6. Have a Microphone (If Outdoors)
Wind, waves, and laughter can make it hard for guests to hear your vows. Use a microphone so your words carry, and your reactions aren’t missed. It also adds clarity to any ceremony video you may have.
7. Hold Hands, Kiss, Laugh
Be yourselves! The more natural you are, the better your ceremony photos will be. Don’t worry about being stiff or perfect, just be present with your partner.
8. Plan for Unexpected Moments
It might rain. Your flower girl might bail. Your veil might do a dramatic dance in the wind. That’s okay! Some of the best photos come from unplanned moments. Just breathe, smile, and enjoy the day.
Bonus tip: Pack a few Q-tips in your bouquet wrap for quick tear dabs during emotional moments. It’s discreet, effective, and doesn’t smudge your makeup!
9. Assign Maid of Honour Duties That Matter
Your maid of honour is more than moral support. She's your behind-the-scenes stylist. Ask her to keep an eye on your train or veil, fix the dress after walking down the aisle, and take (then return) your bouquet during the vows.
10. Practice the Dip and Kiss for Your Exit
That post-ceremony aisle exit is the moment to shine!
Add some flair with a dip and kiss halfway down the aisle. Practice it beforehand to make it smooth, safe, and photo-ready. It adds energy and drama and trust me, it looks amazing on camera.
11. Plan Family Photos in Advance
After the ceremony, your photographer will likely gather immediate family for formal photos. Make it easier by having your officiant announce for immediate family to stay back. Also, inform your family in advance so no one disappears to the bar too early.
12. Make Eye Contact with Your Guests When Exiting
Your recessional is your first walk as newlyweds. Make it count! As you walk back down the aisle, take a moment to look at your guests, wave, smile, and soak it all in. It makes the photos more joyful and interactive, and your guests will love feeling that connection.
Final Thoughts:
Your ceremony isn’t just another part of the day, it’s the moment everything begins.
With the right light, timing, and mindset, your photos will reflect the beauty, joy, and emotion of your vows.
Want help planning a photo-friendly wedding ceremony in Jamaica? I’m happy to help you create a timeline and setting that brings your vision to life.
Let’s capture your “I Do” in the most meaningful, magical way.
