A PHOTOGRAPHER'S PERSPECTIVE
In the early days of wedding planning, the venue is typically booked first - followed by the photographer. Given the fact that photography is one of the few vendor services that will physically exist past the wedding itself, most couples value photography services more than other expenses for their event. However, some venues have key characteristics that factor into a better outcome for photos than others. If high-quality, beautiful photos are of utmost importance to you on your wedding day, it’s definitely a wise decision to get a wedding photographer’s take on what makes or breaks a venue. As a wedding photographer, it's helpful to keep three things in mind: lighting, functionality, and aesthetic.
LIGHTING
I can confidently speak for the majority of photographers (even niches other than weddings) that lighting is one of - if not THE - most important factor in high-quality photos. Yes, technology has come a long way and has developed cameras that can handle low-light situations better than before. Yes, most photographers are equipped with flashes and gadgets that can provide artificial light. But in my humble opinion, nothing beats good old fashioned natural light. When choosing your venue, some key components to look for include:
- Lots of windows. Obviously these are going to be your source of light. Windows are a useful tool to utilize, especially for details photos, individuals of the bride/groom, getting ready, etc. Windows will allow vital light into your reception area for a properly lit area to capture dances, toasts, and more. If the weather is being contrary and going outside is not always an option, windows will definitely be your best friend.
- White, white, white. Sometimes it can’t be avoided and a flash needs to be used. One important thing to remember is that lighter colors will reflect light, causing it to disperse more evenly for a more natural look. For instance, the light from a flash will bounce off a white ceiling and disperse better than it would with a black ceiling.
Pro tip: If you’re going the DIY outdoor route, white tents are one of the best options to go with for flash purposes.
FUNCTIONALITY
Another factor that plays into a smoothly executed wedding day is logistics. Of course, basics such as guest access, restroom accessibility, etc. need to be considered. However, precious time is wasted in having to drive back and forth between getting ready locations and venues. I can tell you that your wedding photographer will thank you for booking a venue that has a bridal suite. A short walk from one end of the venue to the other will shave precious time off your photography timeline. In return, this will allow your photographer to stay and capture more of the things that matter most to you, whether it be details, getting ready, portraits of you and your fiancé, family portraits, or dance floor photos. Make sure getting ready suites have ample light and plenty of room for you and your crew to spread out. A kitchenette is handy to keep breakfast/lunch supplies out of the way. Vanities are great for hairstylists and makeup artists to keep their tools and products within reach. Not only do these spaces help give some extra elbow room, but they also keep distracting clutter at bay for getting ready photos.
If your choice venue doesn’t have this feature, consider choosing getting ready locations that are close to the ceremony site. A 5-10 minute drive is ideal to keep from eating up precious time.
Pro tip: If your venue doesn't include a bridal suite, consider booking a cute Airbnb near your ceremony site. You may get lucky and find a freshly remodeled house with plenty of space for everyone to spread out, and could also be your lodging for the night of the wedding.
AESTHETICS
If you want to take your photos up a notch, aesthetics play a key role in delivering that extra punch. Of course, everyone has different tastes, but some of my favorite venues to shoot at are light and bright. From my experience, these spaces have less distracting features and will allow important details, such as florals, to pop. Whether it’s a fresh, modern winery or a classic barn with chippy, white paint, most photographers will thrive in this type of environment leading to better photos for your gallery.
BONUS TIP: OUTDOOR SPACE
As mentioned before, natural light is one of the key factors to getting gorgeous, high-quality photos of your wedding. It's beneficial to make sure your venue has a few options available for outdoor photos. Venues located in a residential area sometimes offer limited options for outdoor photos if homes, garages, sheds, etc. are in the background. Sure, we have Photoshop in our toolbox, but it doesn't always work miracles at taking unwanted distractions out of the picture. Whether it's an iconic set of dramatic steps or just a simple tree line with foliage as the backdrop, it's important to be able to have something available to use. Photographers are definitely going to want to take their clients outside for photos (hence, the famous sunset photos with the bride and groom).
INVEST IN YOUR MEMORIES
When you hop on your consultation call with your photographer, ask how their style will jive with your venue space. Different photographers have different specialties (and weaknesses). For example, if your event space has limited natural light, ask how comfortable they are using a flash (because all photographers know that is a beast in itself). If they’re likely to struggle with the ins and outs of flash photography, there’s a chance they may not be the best fit for your project. Wedding photographers are an invaluable tool in the wedding planning process.
If you’re wondering if the venue you had in mind is right for you, schedule a quick consultation call with me - I’d be happy to help!
MEET LIZ
I'm Liz Woods, a wedding and senior photographer based in the Terre Haute, Indiana area. You can also find me traveling to Lafayette, Indianapolis, and beyond. When it comes to a photography experience unlike ever before, you've come to the right place.
I'm just an old soul with a soft spot for nostalgia. My goal is to serve you with an experience that will not only change your perspective of photography but also provide you with timeless photos to pass on for generations.
Vendors
FEATURED IN THIS BLOG
Wedding photography | Woods + Co. Photography
Venues | The Sycamore Winery - Terre Haute, Indiana; The Landing on Division - Veedersburg, Indiana; St. Mary of-the-Woods, Le Fer Hall - Terre Haute, Indiana; Gravelly Run Church - Darlington, Indiana
