Do's & don'ts
Wedding tips from a photographer's perpective.
As a Mauritian wedding photographer I have the honour of having documented around 300 weddings. In my career I’ve seen a lot of what works well and what doesn’t. Also that I’ve been on the other side as a bride, I have even more insight as to what matters most and how to make sure to have beautiful pictures on your wedding day. Here are my top wedding tips for making your big day a success from the perspective of a wedding photographer:
TIP NO. 1
The Vows
A Moment Worth Holding
Write Your Own Vows
As a photographer, I see how these small details transform your ceremony. If you have the choice, I highly recommend writing your own vows rather than simply repeating words given to you by the officiant. Your vows are a chance to speak directly to each other, to share your own words, memories and promises. It makes the moment more emotional, intimate and truly personal. And there’s something beautiful about the way it looks too: instead of looking at the officiant while repeating the words, you’ll be looking at each other. That connection makes the moment feel more genuine and creates some of the most beautiful, heartfelt photographs.
Have the vow written or printed. ( I personally prefer handwritten)
A handwritten or printed vow adds a romantic, intimate touch, something far more meaningful than reading from a phone. It photographs beautifully, becomes part of your story, and can be kept forever as a cherished keepsake. Let your vows be as special as the words you speak. Hold them, feel them, and allow them to complete the magic of your day.
TIP NO. 2
Let us capture the moment without the distractions.
If a family member or friend will be filming your ceremony on their phone, kindly ask them to stand close to your photographer or videographer.
This simple tip helps keep them out of the main frame, so they won’t appear in your ceremony photos or videos. It also keeps the aisle and ceremony space clear, allowing us to capture your moments beautifully and without distractions.
TIP NO. 3
Ring ceremony
Where should you stand
The groom should stand on the right side and the bride, next to his heart, on his left side. The groom should put the ring first on his wife's finger. During the ceremony, I recommend that the groom holds her lover's hand softly with his left hand while putting the ring with his right hand. Bride, holds your arms 90 degres towards your partner and avoid placing your hand too high.
Exception ( when to do the opposite)
In orthodox religion and some countries, the ring is worn on the right hand, in this case, the bride will stand on the right side and the groom on the left side. So that the bride's hand is in front of the camera during the exchange of the ring. I also recommend this position, when it's too windy, especially in the eastside coast of the island. For the sake of the bride's hair and veil, she should then stand opposide to the direction of the wind.
TIP NO. 4
Avoid harsh sun at all cost
If the wedding will take place in a hotel, especially in the east side of the island, I highly recommend that you asked your wedding coordinator about the exact location of the ceremony and where the gazebo will be placed. This will play a major role in you having beautiful pictures. Having harsh sunlight on your face, during the whole ceremony, will not only make it hard for you to open your eyes but also make you sweat even more. Photographing a person facing the sun is a big no-no in photography. The bride and groom should be, as far as possible, standing back to the sun. I suggest that you and your patner , place yourselves at the exact same place and time, the day before the ceremony, to see the position of the sun on your face.
TIP NO. 5
Unplugged ceremony
Unplugged ceremonies are becoming more and more common. As a photographer, bride, and wedding guest I love them. They help guests focus on what is actually happening rather than getting the best photo or video of your ceremony. This is the moment you are actually getting married after all. It is the reason everyone is there! Plus, they make your professional wedding photos and videos better by removing obstacles and distractions. Nothing is worse than a shot of the bride walking down the aisle with dozens of cell phones pointed at her! You want to see the faces of your loved ones, not their phones.
TIP NO. 6
Don't be too casual
Outfit
Do not let your guests mistake a casual dress code for jeans and a t-shirt; those are never acceptable. Let them know that they are still participating in an important ceremony even if it’s a casual affair and beach wedding. Decide for hand if you want your guest to be formal or casual. This make a huge difference on group shots. This picture illustrates a good colour theme and outfit dress code.
TIP NO. 7
Not everything will be perfect,
and that’s ok
Don’t let perfect become the enemy of good. While you can create the best vision board and plan thoroughly. Not everything is going to come out exactly as you think it will – and that’s ok! Try not to let the little things stress you out. Prioritize enjoying the day with your spouse, family and friends!
TIP NO. 8
Have something fun !
If you are a fan of candid shots, having something funny will add a touch of enchantment to your wedding day. It can be the guests symbolically shower the newly married couple with flower petals as they exit the ceremony, it can be a sand ceremony or it can just be the bouquet toss tradition.