Planning for Light on Your Wedding Day

You probably already know that light is important in photography. While wedding photographers come equipped and experienced to handle less than ideal situations it doesn’t have to be that way. With a little chatting and devising with your photographer, you can plan for the most beautiful light. As a documentary photographer, this is important because I’d rather not have to bring out a distracting flash unless absolutely necessary. I would much rather be able to use the natural light that was true to the moment. It’s also such a joy when we’re able to capture your couple photos during the romantic golden light as it’s so flattering and lovely. Of course, your wedding day is just that, yours. In no way do you have to follow all or even any of my advice. While light is a pretty big deal when it comes to wedding photography so is emotion, moments, and connection. As I said, a talented photographer will be able to work with the toughest of lighting situations. I have merely created this article to help you make informed decisions in regards to your wedding photography.

Getting Ready

For your getting ready location, you want to make sure that it has large windows that let in enough natural light to evenly light the space with the lights turned off. It’s even better when the room is painted a light colour which gets the light reflecting around the room. You want to make sure that there is enough light with the lights turned off because different light sources emit different colours. For example, the camera sees the window light as blue and the artificial lights as orange. Having these colours of light come together on your face can lead to weird skin tones even the naked eye doesn’t pick up on. Renting an Airbnb is a great option as they usually have lots of light and character yet lack the unsightly aspects of a hotel room like no smoking signs and not so nice decor.

First Look

I love photographing first looks as great emotions happen during this time and it really gives you a chance to relax before the ceremony. Most of my couples who do first looks also plan to continue with the rest of the photos afterward. However, first looks usually happen early in the day when the light is at it’s least ideal. When the sun is high in the sky it creates dark under-eye shadows, nose shadow mustaches and lots of squinting. If you want to photograph all of your photos at midday make sure you have a backdrop that provides large enough shade for the whole group. The other option is to schedule your photos to happen later in the day when the light is more forgiving.

Ceremony

I love outdoor wedding ceremonies but if they are planned for midday this can be no fun for anyone. If your ceremony will not be completely shaded you want to avoid the hours of 10 am to 3 pm. As I said earlier, this time of day creates unflattering shadows and is also very hot. When planning an outdoor summer ceremony, plan to have it take place 2 – 3 hours before sunset.

Portraits

If you take a look at my engagement portfolio you may notice that they are all photographed in the soft, warm light of golden hour. Golden hour takes place one hour before sunset. If you look at those photos and want that same quality of light I recommend scheduling your couple portraits during that time of day or at least sneaking away during that time for 15 or 20 minutes.

Reception

When it comes to your reception I find it important to capture it as it truly looked and felt in the moment. If your worrying that their may not be enough light think about adding some string lights. They add that touch of warm light and depth in the photos. They’re especially great of outdoor receptions that have no light once the sun goes down. For more intimate weddings I would recommend looking into hosting your reception at a restaurant. Restaurants are well designed in terms of lighting, unlike a banquet hall that is a blank canvas in which you are to create.

Conclusion

Make sure that you plan to avoid taking photos outside when the light is harsh. If you’re worrying that it may be overcast on your wedding day, don’t! When it’s overcast even the harshest of light is softened by the clouds meaning you can take photos at any time. As a wedding photographer, I love to capture your wedding day using the best light so that your memories are captured in the most beautiful and perfect way. If you want to find out about what the light will be like on your wedding day use suncalc.org.

Check out more wedding planning articles for couples.