Details
There are so many details that go into planning a wedding day, but when a photographer says "details" in the context of wedding photography, they mean a very specific type of detail.
This guide will go over what details are, why you should have them photographed, and how to get your details ready to be photographed on your wedding day.
What are "details"?
In general, details for a wedding day are the small, intentional elements that go into the day. Think decorations, flowers, table setups, displays, etc. I make sure to get photos of ALL the details that go into a wedding day. However, when I say I start most wedding days by photographing the "details", I'm referring to a specific set of elements from your wedding day. This set of "detail" elements is a collection of more personal items for you and your partner. Guests may or may not see these items, but they are important items nonetheless. These details include:
Selecting details to have photographed
When selecting which details you want photographed, think about what personal elements are included in your wedding that you want documented. If elements are included in decorations, I don't need those at the beginning of the day, as I will photograph ceremony and reception decor later in the day when everything is set up.
Think about the elements that you will be wearing, or that are particularly meaningful for you, especially elements that won't be on display somewhere. You can also include little decorative elements that relate to your wedding, like shells for a beach wedding or gold accent pieces.
Thinking about your details ahead of time will ensure that you get all the items photographed that you want.
- Wedding rings
- Wedding gown
- Wedding invitations
- Save the dates
- Jewelry
- Perfume
- Something old/borrowed/blue
- Shoes
- Cuff links
- Watches
- Gifts
- Vows
- Other personal items
Why should you have your wedding details photographed?
These details tell the story of your wedding through the small, intimate well, details! You spent time intentionally picking out your invitations, perfume, shoes, jewelry, etc., and all of these elements come together to make your wedding unique to you and your partner. These details matter because they are part of your wedding story. Intentionally capturing these details in photographs ensures that this part of your wedding is preserved long after the wedding day.
This is a general list of details, but your details can include anything that is small and personal to you. Other personal items could include: a piece of a partner's grandmother's dress, old family photographs, letters to each other, garter, ribbons that will be used in the ceremony, etc.
I usually start wedding days by photographing the details
At the start of most wedding days, I will walk into the room where one partner is getting ready, say hello, introduce myself, and then ask for the details. Then, I'll take the details near a window or outside (the best light is by a window or outdoors) to style them and photograph them, which takes about 30 minutes. If I have a second photographer, they may help me carry some things, and then then will stay in the getting ready room to photograph getting ready while I do the details.
I start wedding days by photographing the details for a few reasons. First, it works best time-wise to get them done first thing. Second, detail time is a quiet time for me to get in the zone, become familiar with all of your personal elements so I can capture them in action later, and start to feel the vibe of your wedding.
Make yourself a detail bag/box
Before your wedding day, think about the details you want photographed, and then put them all in a designated details bag or box. Shoe boxes or small tote bags work well. Try to include items from both partners in this box. Then, when I walk into your getting ready room and ask you for the details, you don't even have to think. You can just hand me a box. Easy!
It is also helpful for me if the gown (if applicable) is in the same location as the getting ready box. However, if not, it's ok. I can take photos of the gown later.
Ask your florist for loose blooms
Try asking your florist for some loose blooms to include in the detail photos! Usually, florists are more than happy to give you a few loose flowers. The blooms will add some color to the detail photos. Here's an example.
Make sure your rings are in the same place!
Make sure both all three rings (engagement and both wedding bands) are all in one place when I arrive! Ring shots are some of my favorite detail photos, and they won't work as well if I don't have all the rings with me. I recommend making sure all three rings are with one partner when I arrive.
Copyright Abby Shepard Photography
