How To Choose Your Wedding Portrait Locations

Wedding portraits are a funny thing. They’re such an important part of the day, and if you think about it, wedding portrait locations are really endless! But with all the wedding decisions to make, couples often decide to have their portraits taken are the ceremony space (whether that’s a church, synagogue, hotel, garden, or wherever) and the reception space.

If you’re in a time crunch, or your venue is your dream wedding portrait location, then that makes total sense.

But often that’s not the case, and couples just sort of default to taking their photos at the venue without knowing that there’s a lovely park, picturesque city streets, or a riverfront nearby that would offer stunning shots!

If you have the extra time to spare on your wedding day, we would encourage you to explore all your options, so that your photos are as beautiful and intentional as possible. That’s why today, we’re sharing some tips and tricks for how to choose the best wedding portrait locations for your big day.

Google It!

This might seem obvious, and really, it is! But if you haven’t yet, take a moment to use Google Maps to check out what’s near your wedding venue. Explore the landmarks and streets that are within a short distance from you, as well as the places you’ll be driving past when you go from ceremony to reception.

Use a Backdrop

You’ll probably have these photos hanging on your walls until you’re old and grey, and they might even become heirlooms handed down to your great-grandchildren. A backdrop is a wonderful way to give your photos an intentional and polished look. It’s worth it to do a little homework before your wedding day to pick some spots you really love with natural backdrops. Or, spend an hour on Pinterest checking out some ideas for creating your own backdrop! There are so many cool ideas, and new ones seem to pop up all the time.

Plan Ahead

When you’re planning your portrait session, it’s ideal to take a look at location options a year in advance. This way, you can visit potential photo locations at the same time of day and year as your wedding, to see what the light is like. 

Tip: Snap some pictures of the places you like and send them to your photographer! 

If we have any feedback or recommendations, like we think you need to find a spot with more shade, or if know some additional nearby spots you could add to the photo shoot, we’ll be able to tell you well in advance.

Don’t have time to scout out wedding portrait locations a year in advance? That’s okay! It’s still a great idea to visit potential spots in person and see if you like them.

Get Permission

This is more of a logistical consideration, but keep in mind that if you decide you want portraits taken in a public space (like a museum, city park, train station),  you might need a photo permit. 

Make sure you check that out in advance– you wouldn’t want to be in the middle of your wedding day photo shoot and get stopped by a security guard!

Think Outside The Box

Last but not least, we’d encourage you to think outside the box. You don’t  just have to have portraits taken in a garden or inside pretty building. 

Is your favorite ice cream spots down the street? Let’s go!

Love gritty urban streets and colorful murals? Check if there’s one nearby!

The restaurant where you had your first date is down the block? Call to ask if we can snap a few photos at the same table (how special would that be?!).

As long as you have time in your day (or you make the time), the possibilities are really endless.

Want our advice on your wedding portrait locations?

We’d love to help you pick the perfect place.
Get in touch!