What You Don't Want to See in Your Wedding Photos

While there are plenty of aspects of your wedding that are absolutely beautiful and should be captured on film, there are also some details – mostly from behind the scenes – that can keep your photos from looking picture-perfect. Take a look at some of the most common things you'll want to avoid for your wedding photos:

Non-Guests
While they are a necessary part of making your big day happen, you don’t necessarily want to see the event staff when looking back through your photos after the wedding. This can be a problem when it comes to getting images of the reception space before the guests enter, as there may still be some setting up to do. Your photographer may also have to coordinate with their second shooter or the videographer to make sure they don’t get in each other’s shots. Even the officiant can be an issue in this regard. You likely want a photo of them presiding over the ceremony, but you’ll want to make sure they step out of frame when it comes time for the first kiss. Servers can also be an exception – shots of them clearing dishes or setting up glasses may not be desirable, but passed appetizers and special Champagne pours can showcase memorable details from your big day. 

Excess Objects
Clutter is also a factor to avoid in your photos. While there can be issues with used glasses in images from the reception, the biggest culprit tends to be in the getting-ready shots. Whether you have a huge bridal party or an intimate one, it’s still natural that everyone’s stuff will be around in the space. If you have a full suite, it can help to designate one room for possessions and the other area can act as the spot for those Pinterest-ready pictures of prepping for the big day.

Technology
Cell phones can also be considered clutter, in a way. In some cases they might literally clutter a reception table, but they can also distract the eye if guests are trying to take their own pictures during the ceremony. Stating that it will be an unplugged wedding can help to alleviate that possibility. 

Unhappy Expressions
Finally, there is one other thing you don’t want in the pictures from your nuptials. This is something that you can fully control: your own facial expression! You obviously want to look happy in your wedding photos, so try to make sure that you don’t have a strained smile. One tip that can help is taking some candid shots between your posed portraits in order to give your face an opportunity to relax. 

For more tips, learn how to be more photogenic on your wedding day and get must-know advice from a photographer.