5 Wedding Photo Mistakes Couples Don’t Realize They’re Making (And How to Avoid Them)

You don’t get a do-over on your wedding photos. No pressure, right? But here’s the thing—great photos don’t happen by accident. They’re a mix of timing, lighting, planning, and trust. And after photographing so many weddings, I’ve seen firsthand the little things couples wish they’d known before the big day.

Here are 5 common wedding photo mistakes—and how to make sure they don’t happen to you.

1. Not Giving Enough Time for Portraits

Squeezing your couple’s portraits between cocktail hour and dinner might sound efficient—but it’s usually rushed, stressful, and in the harshest light of the day.
Pro Tip: Plan for portraits when the light is soft—ideally golden hour (an hour before sunset). That dreamy glow? It’s not a filter—it’s timing.

2. Overlooking Lighting at the Ceremony

Outdoor ceremonies are beautiful, but if your ceremony is at high noon with no shade, expect squinty eyes and harsh shadows.
Solution: Talk to your photographer ahead of time. We’ll help you figure out where the light will be and when it’s best.

3. Skipping a Rain Plan

Even if it’s “not supposed to rain,” wedding days are full of surprises.
Prep Ahead: Have a backup indoor photo spot, bring a few clear umbrellas, and trust your photographer to pivot. (Spoiler: some of my favorite photos have happened in the rain.)

These are the kinds of things your photographer should be thinking about for you—but a little heads-up goes a long way in making your photos shine. If you’re just starting your planning, I’ve created a free Wedding Photography Guide packed with tips like these and a sample timeline to help you feel more prepared.

Still looking for your photographer? Let’s chat—we’d love to hear about your day.