A few things couples often forget.Tips from a Bay Area wedding photographer

Let me tell you something: as a Bay Area wedding photographer with more than a decade of experience, I want to give you some useful tips for your wedding day.

You’ve got the venue, outfits, and schedule all set. But after photographing so many weddings, I’ve learned it’s often the little things that really shape how your photos turn out. These small details can make a big difference in how your day feels and how your memories are captured.

Where you get ready matters a lot. You’ll spend hours there, and it’s where many emotional moments happen like your mom helping with your dress or friends joking while you sip coffee. Choosing a bright room with natural light and minimal clutter really helps these moments shine. Bright hotel rooms or Airbnbs with big windows are much better than dark, tight spaces.

Lighting during the ceremony sets the mood. Harsh midday sun can create unflattering shadows while low light indoors can make it hard to capture details. If you’re still deciding when your ceremony will be, let’s talk. I can help you pick a time that flatters you and brings out all the emotion in your photos.

Phones in the aisle can ruin the shot. You’re about to kiss and suddenly there’s a phone or tablet blocking the view. It happens a lot. A simple announcement from your officiant asking guests to put phones away makes a huge difference. Everyone gets to enjoy the moment and I can capture it without screens in the way.

Please remember to eat. It might seem obvious but wedding days move fast and it’s easy to skip meals without noticing. If you don’t eat, you’ll feel drained and it might show in your photos. Take a few minutes to grab a snack and some water before the ceremony or during a break. You’ll feel better and look more energized.

Give yourself extra time. Things almost always take longer than expected. Hair and makeup might run behind or traffic might slow you down. Adding a little buffer throughout the day helps everything feel more relaxed and gives us space to capture genuine moments without rushing.

One more thing quick introductions help a lot. When I meet your family or bridal party a simple “Hey everyone, this is Alex, our photographer” makes everyone feel comfortable. When people are at ease with me they relax in front of the camera and that leads to better photos.

Photos aren’t just pictures they’re memories. Planning ahead for these small details helps your day go smoothly and makes sure your photos truly reflect the joy and love of your wedding. If you want help thinking through any part of the day, I’m always happy to share what I’ve learned.