February 23rd, 2024 by Alana Lynn Photography
As the excitement builds and the wedding day draws near, you may find yourself immersed in a whirlwind of planning. Amidst all the hustle and bustle, it’s easy to overlook the significance of capturing those intricate details that add a personal touch to the celebration. That’s where the art of flat lays and detail photography comes in.
Flat lays and details are among the first shots typically captured on a wedding day. These images not only serve as beautiful mementos but also set the tone for the entire photo collection, encapsulating the essence of the day in detail. To ensure that every cherished element is lovingly documented, I highly recommend assembling a little box of the details you wish to capture.
Here’s a curated list of items you may want to consider gathering for your detail box:
1. Invitations
The wedding invitation sets the tone for the entire event. Plus, all the hard work you put into the design deserves a place in the spotlight. If you have any envelopes or wax seals, feel free to include those too!
2. Rings + Ring Box
The symbol of eternal love. You can choose to set both of your rings in the box the morning of or personally exchange them with me. Also, if you have a specific ring box you would like for me to use, go ahead and place that in the box. Otherwise, I have a few options you can choose from.
3. Jewelry
From sparkling rings to delicate necklaces and earrings, gather any and all accessories that complement your wedding attire.
4. Shoes
Whether adorned with intricate designs or simple elegance, your shoes add visual appeal and completes the narrative of your wedding ensemble.
5. Perfume/Cologne
Remember the aromatic essence of the day with your chosen fragrances, adding a sensory dimension to the memories.
6. Vow Books
The heartfelt words exchanged between you and your partner in beautifully crafted vow books or notebooks. I personally love the vow books by Artifact Uprising because they’re SO cute, and better yet, they’re sustainably sourced with 100% recycled lined pages. The books are customizable, and have a wide range of colors and designs to choose from. Be sure to grab yours here! *Ad*
7. Notes to Each Other/Sentiments
Whether it’s notes you wrote to each other or simply something you collect together, it’s a fun and sweet way to further infuse who YOU are in your photos. Think: postcards or magnets from places you’ve gone together over the years.
8. Veil and Garner
If either of you are including a veil or garner in your look, don’t leave them out! The fabrics on both are great at elevating detail photos because they add dimension and new textures.
9. Bowtie/Tie
If one of you are sporting a bowtie or a tie, let’s showcase that dapper attire!
10. Suspenders/Belts
Furthermore, if you’re pairing the look with any belts or suspenders, feel free to include those. The straps are perfect when it comes to creating a frame or leading lines, both of which make the photo more visually appealing by drawing the viewer’s eye to certain places in the image.
11. Heirlooms
Pay homage to family traditions by including cherished heirlooms passed down through generations. Think: Something blue? Something borrowed?
12. Bouquets, Boutonnieres, Greenery, Florals
From cascading bouquets to delicate sprigs of greenery, infuse elements of nature for a fresh, earthy look.
13. Ribbon and Decorative Elements
Incorporate any decorative elements that add flair and personality to the wedding theme. For example, if you love disco balls and are having a few hang above your dance floor, don’t be afraid to throw a few mini disco balls or even mirrored confetti in to tie it all together!
By gathering these precious details in advance and organizing them in a dedicated box, you can ensure that no moment goes unnoticed on your special day. This thoughtful preparation not only streamlines the photography process but also ensures that every element of your love story is beautifully preserved for generations to come.
As a wedding photographer, I’ve witnessed firsthand the joy that comes from capturing these intricate details and transforming them into timeless works of art. From the glimmer of a diamond ring to the delicate lace of a veil, each element tells a unique story, weaving together the tapestry of love and devotion that defines your wedding day.
So, as you embark on the journey towards your happily ever after, remember to take a moment to gather those precious details that make your love story truly unique. Because when the flowers have wilted and the music has faded, it’s these cherished moments frozen in time that will continue to evoke the magic of your wedding day for years to come.
