Wedding Photography Series: Part 7 of 10
Putting together meaningful wedding ceremony can seem overwhelming, but when the details come together–timing, location, personalization–they create a moment that is not only unforgettable for your guests, but deeply special for you. Whether you are planning an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, these six tips will help you design a wedding ceremony that is both beautiful and meaningful.
1. Choose the Right Time of Day for the Best Light
While it might not seem like a big decision at first, the time of day for your ceremony plays a crucial role–especially for your wedding photography. The most flattering and beautiful light is when the sun is soft, just after sunrise or before sunset.
To make the most of this soft, glowing light, consider scheduling your ceremony approximately three hours before sunset. This gives you enough time for the ceremony itself, family photos and time for romantic couple’s session in perfect light. You will be thankful for the beautiful images that result from a well-planned day.
C + C's ceremony at Ford Field and River Club was at the perfect time--just as the sun was setting.
H + K's morning wedding at Harper Fowlkes's House cast soft light throughout the ceremony.
M + B exchanged vows in the early evening at the Mackey House. The evening light and shaded patio softened the sun to create stunning photos.
Evening wedding ceremonies, when the light is soft, are beautiful as seen at K + L's wedding at Cotton Hall.
2. Personalize Your Wedding Ceremony with Meaningful Details
The most touching ceremonies are those that reflect the couple’s love. Whether it’s including your pet, honoring a lost loved one, or writing your own vows, adding personal elements helps share your love story with each guest. These details not only make your ceremony more meaningful, but they also provide opportunities for authentic photos that you will treasure forever.
B + J has cocktail burros at their wedding–incorporating a location tradition.
There are many ways to remember and honor family who are not able to be at the wedding.
A + D’s dog, Kava, ran down the aisle to join them as they exchanged vows.
M + J treated guests to one of their favorite drinks–a welcome treat during the ceremony.
M + C precious pup joined them at their afternoon ceremony at Beaulieu Estate.
3. Decide Between an Indoor or Outdoor Wedding Ceremony
Where you choose to hold your ceremony can impact both the experience and your wedding photos.
Outdoor ceremonies provide stunning natural backdrops and display the beauty of your venue, but they can be subject to unpredictable weather.
Indoor ceremonies offer reliability and comfort. You won’t need a backup plan, and you have control over the setup. Just be sure to check if the venue has guidelines on photography or movement during the ceremony.
Beaulieu Estate offers different outdoor locations for ceremonies. J + J chose to exchange vows beside the river, under the shade of an ancient live oak.
St. John’s Cathedral, in Savannah, is a stunning venue for wedding ceremonies.
S + O’s outdoor wedding at Forsyth Park came with unpredictable weather–but the rain didnt’ stop S from walking down the aisle, umbrella in hand.
B + J brought a bit of the outdoors into The Crescent Club for their elegant wedding ceremony.
Harper Fowlkes House is a beautiful location for an outdoor ceremony offering options for a garden wedding or covered with a tent.
G + W enjoyed an indoor ceremony while welcoming the beauty of Telfair Square in through the large windows of the Jepson Center.
4. Design Your Wedding Ceremony Space with Intention
Your ceremony decor helps set the tone and tell the story of your wedding. Depending on your venue, you might go big with a floral arch and flowers down the aisle. Or you may choose to keep it simple with minimal decorations.
Focus on design elements that reflect your personality–whether that’s heirloom decor, custom signage or touches of humor that capture your shared sense of fun.
The beauty of Savannah doesn't need extravagant design--simple elegance created a stunning look.
Married in front of the Savannah River, P + M opted for an elegant arbor that did not take away from the views of the city.
Incorporating cultural traditions into your decor is a great way to personalize your wedding ceremony.
The Cloister Chapel on Sea Island is beautiful–the elegant flowers by The Vine accented the venue perfectly.
Forsyth Park’s iconic fountain is stunning . Kato Floral Design skillfully arranged two beautiful floral arrangements to complete K + A’s ceremony decor.
C + C’s ceremony at Ford Field and River Club was accented by simple greenery.
Already decorated for Easter, L + T’s ceremony needed minimal adornments.
5. Incorporate Religious or Cultural Traditions into Your Wedding Ceremony
Will your ceremony include religious, spiritual or cultural traditions? These elements add depth and significance, connection you to your heritage or beliefs.
Whether it’s a unity ritual, scripture reading, or cultural blessing, these traditions can be woven into your ceremony in a way that feels both meaningful and modern.
6. Capture Magical Moments with Photography Tips
So many small, in-between moments during the ceremony make for the best photos. Being aware of them–and planning for them–can make a big difference.
Unplugged Ceremony: Ask your officiant to remind guests to put away phones so your photographer can capture genuine moments without distractions.
Walk Slowly: Don’t hurry down the aisle. Walk slowly and enjoy the moment–it makes for more elegant photos.
Hold Your Bouquet Low: Holding your bouquet at waist level allows your dress to shine in photos.
Look Forward: Keep your eyes on your partner; you will have time to connect with guests after the ceremony.
Linger for the Kiss: Don’t rush it! A longer kiss ensures your photographer captures that iconic moment.
Joyful Recessional: One of the most joyful shots is the walk back down the aisle as a married couple. Smile, laugh–and maybe stop for a second kiss!
Bonus Tip: Capture the Kids!
Flower girls and ring bearers always steal the show. Whether they are perfectly posed or a little unpredictable, their presence adds charm, and a little humor, to your photo gallery.
Ready to Plan Your Picture-Perfect Wedding Ceremony?
A meaningful wedding ceremony doesn’t happen by accident–it’s built from intentional decisions that reflect your love. From the timing to traditions to the tiniest decor details, the beauty of these carefully planned details will shine in every photo.
Your wedding ceremony deserves to be photographed with the same care and personality that went into planning it. Call today to start planning how we will tell your story.
See more weddings on the blog here.
