While many couples dream of getting married in a picturesque church or venue, the reality is that not everyone has the budget for a big, fancy wedding. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to get beautiful wedding photos without breaking the bank. With a little creativity and effort, it’s easy to take stunning at-home wedding photos that you’ll cherish for a lifetime. Here is a Dubai wedding photographer’s guide to taking stunning at-home wedding photos.
Make a list of must-have shots
Before you start taking any photos, it’s important to sit down with your partner and figure out which shots are absolutely essential. Do you want a photo of you both exchanging vows? A shot of you cutting the cake? Once you know which moments you absolutely need to capture, you can make sure that those moments are captured beautifully. Of course, every couple is different, so there is no definitive list of must-have shots. However, some popular ideas include a photo of the bride and groom holding hands, a candid shot of the wedding party, and a close-up of the bride’s bouquet. By taking the time to plan out which shots are most important to you, you can be confident that your wedding photos will be everything you’ve ever wanted.
Choose the right time of day
The time of day can have a big impact on the quality of your photos. If you’re shooting outdoors, the best light is usually in the morning or late afternoon/early evening. The sun isn’t as harsh at these times, and there are plenty of shadows to add depth and dimension to your shots. Of course, there are exceptions to every rule. If you’re trying to capture a particular mood in your photo, the time of day may not be as important as the overall lighting conditions. For example, if you’re shooting in a wooded area, the light may be dappled and diffused even at midday. In general, though, it’s best to choose the right time of day for your photo shoot.
Take advantage of natural backgrounds
When it comes to taking photos, the background can often be just as important as the subject. A beautiful garden or a stunning view can make a huge difference in the overall look of the photo. If you’re lucky enough to have access to such an idyllic setting, be sure to take advantage of it. However, even if you’re stuck indoors, there are still ways to create an attractive background. Hanging some fairy lights or draping some curtains can help to transform even the most mundane room into a magical space. So next time you’re planning to take a photo, don’t forget to think about the background. With a little bit of effort, you can ensure that your photos are always gorgeous.
Get everyone involved
A big part of what makes at-home weddings so special is the intimate atmosphere. You’re surrounded by the people you love most in a comfortable and familiar setting. This also means that everyone can get involved in taking photos! Ask your friends and family members to snap some shots while you’re getting ready or during the reception. They’ll be happy to help out, and it’ll give you even more memories to treasure later on. Not to mention, it’s always fun to see the wedding through other people’s eyes. So don’t be shy about asking your loved ones to take some photos – it’ll only add to the memories of your special day.
Don’t forget about the details
When people think about wedding photos, they often focus on big moments like exchanging vows or cutting the cake. But it’s also important to remember all of the small details that made your day special. Make sure to take plenty of shots of your dress, bouquet, invitations, rings, and anything else that helped make your wedding uniquely yours.
Make the house part of the shoot
If you’re getting married at home, make sure to use your house as part of the photo shoot! Get some shots of you and your partner in front of the fireplace or in your favorite room in the house. It’ll be a great way to remember your big day years down the road. Plus, it’s a great way to get some unique photos that most weddings don’t have. If you have a beautiful backyard, get some photos of you two in front of the flowers or by the pool. And if you live in a city, use your wedding as an opportunity to get some cityscape shots.
Embrace candid shots
One of the best things about at-home weddings is that they tend to be more relaxed affairs. This makes it the perfect opportunity to capture some truly candid moments. Look for shots of your guests chatting and laughing or of you and your partner stealing a moment alone. These types of photos are often the most cherished in the long run.
Use props to add interest
If you want to add a little extra interest to your photos, try using some props! You can use anything from balloons and streamers to vintage furniture or even your pets. Just make sure that the props fit in with the overall feel of your wedding day.
Include the pets
If you have any pets, make sure to include them in your photos! They’re a big part of your life, and they’ll be happy to help you celebrate your big day. Just make sure to get some shots of them before the chaos of the wedding day begins.
Don’t forget the selfie stick
Selfie sticks are a must at any wedding, but they’re especially handy for at-home affairs. They’ll help you get some great shots of you and your partner without having to ask someone else to take the photo. And they’re also great for getting group shots of all your guests.
Edit, edit, edit
Once you’ve taken all your photos, it’s time to start editing! This is where you can really get creative and make your photos look their best. Be sure to try out different filters and effects until you find a look that you love.
The Bottom Line on At-Home Wedding Photography
Planning a wedding can be a lot of work, but it’s also a lot of fun. And when it comes to at-home weddings, the photography is one of the best parts. With these tips in mind, you’re sure to end up with some beautiful photos that you’ll treasure for years to come.
Alona Koenig Photography.
Vintage charm. Timeless elegance. French ‘joie de vivre’
