Say ‘I Do’ to the Perfect Venue: A Photographer’s Guide To A Picture-Perfect Wedding

Brides! If photography is a huge priority for your wedding, here’s what to look for in your wedding venue to ensure you have stunning, breathtaking pictures:

1. Lots Of Natural Light

• Look for large windows, skylights, or outdoor spaces with ample natural light.
• Avoid venues with mixed lighting in one space or harsh artificial lighting (fluorescents can create unflattering tones).
• If it’s an indoor venue, ask about dimmable lights for ambiance.
• If you’re going for a bright and airy feel in your photos, you want to make sure your venue’s ceilings are preferably white or a light neutral wooded tone.
• If you’re going more for a dark and moody feel, the same rules apply for natural lighting and mixed lighting. However, you would need dark colored tones for your venue’s ceiling and walls.
• If your venue has a bit of both aesthetics (dark and light), best of both worlds! This is typical for the traditional, true to tone, editorial, fine art photographers.

2. Scenic Backdrops + Variety of Settings

• Check for beautiful outdoor spaces (gardens, bridges, ponds/water features, horses, a vineyard, mountains, and/or historic architecture).
• Indoor settings should have aesthetic walls, spiraled staircases, large chandeliers, and/or large mirrors for creative compositions.
• A mix of locations within the venue (a grand reception space, a seated area for guests after ceremony and/or an outdoor area for cocktail hour and hor’dourves in the courtyard) gives more variety in your photos.

3. Neutral + Complementary Color Palette

• Venues with light-colored walls and natural tones help create bright, beautiful timeless photos.
• Bold/loud colors or overly patterned carpets/walls can be distracting in images.
• Wood, brick, stone, or greenery add depth to your pictures.

4. Sunset Views

• Check where the sun sets relative to the venue during that time of year.
• See if it sets in an open field or which side of the venue, which will make beautiful stunning sunset pictures.

5. Space for Movement & Candid Moments

• If your guest count is 150+, ensure there’s enough room to move around for wide-angle shots and action shots.
• Check if there are scenic walkways and lounge areas for organic, photojournalistic-style images.

6. Lighting at Night

• If your wedding extends into the evening, see how the venue is lit after dark.
• String lights, chandeliers, candles, or well-lit landscapes add magic to nighttime shots.
• Avoid venues with overly bright, uneven, or colored lighting unless you love a moody, dramatic aesthetic.

7. Weather Backup for Outdoor Weddings

• If an outdoor ceremony is planned, check if the indoor backup space is equally photogenic.
• Tents should be clear/white to allow in natural light (avoid dark tents that create shadows).

8. Photographer-Friendly Rules

• Some churches or historic venues have flash restrictions or limit where photographers can or cannot stand.
• Some historic venues have restrictions on where you can take pictures and where you cannot take pictures.
• If you have a specific photographer in mind, definitely run it by them. They will most likely have a preference on venues they shoot at, especially if they have a certain aesthetic style they will most likely only shoot at specific ones.

9. Getting Ready & Bridal Suite

• Choose a well-lit, spacious bridal suite with neutral or elegant décor for those getting-ready shots.
• Bonus if there’s a full-length mirror, large windows, beautiful furniture and/or a designated space for storing bags, etc.

When choosing your wedding venue, keep in mind that the right setting can transform your photos from beautiful to breathtaking. Look for natural light, stunning backdrops, and a variety of picturesque locations to capture every special moment. Whether it’s golden hour on a scenic terrace or an elegant reception space with timeless charm, your venue should reflect your vision while providing the perfect canvas for unforgettable memories. With careful consideration, you’ll find a space that not only celebrates your love, but also ensures every photograph tells your story in the most stunning way possible.