I love detail shots. Simple. Elegant. A serene pause in the hustle and bustle of wedding days to recognize all the little touches that otherwise might have gotten overlooked. Detail shots have become a staple in wedding photography, and with good reason. Detail shots are such an amazing way to remember the small intricate items that you have chosen to incorporate into your wedding day.
Whenever I arrive at a wedding, my first goal is to capture details shots. I’ll walk into the bridal suite and introduce myself to everyone. Then I ask the bride for her details. I do this for two reasons. First, it gives everyone time to get used to having a professional photographer around. Second, it tends to be a quiet time to slip away while hair and make-up get started.
Put all your details in a bag. Having everything together and portable will make it so much easier on you… and your photographer! Another key item that often gets forgotten is to make sure you have all the rings ready at the start of your wedding day. Detail shots will need to include all the rings. But don’t worry I’ll be more than happy to make sure all the rings end up with the right person when I’m done.
I always recommend that brides put all their details into one bag for easy transport.
Below I’ve collected a list of items I recommend gathering for your detail shots. Remember though, these pictures are for you! Don’t feel the need to go out and buy something just because it’s on this list. The items below are just to remind you of things that you already have but might have accidentally overlooked. You should never feel bad if you don’t have an item listed below.
I’ve also included a free printable details checklist as a special gift. To help make it that much easier to gather everything together!
Bride’s Details
- Invitation suite
- Loose flowers
- Shoes
- Veil or Hair piece
- Perfume
- Bouquet
- Garter
- Clutch
- Bridesmaid gifts
- All 3 rings
- Bridal hanger
- Jewelry
Groom’s Details
- Shoes
- Cologne
- Watch
- Tie or Bow Tie
- Boutineer
- Socks (if fun or colored)
- Groomsman gift
- Pocket square
- Cuff-links
Bonus Tip:
Loose florals are one of my favorite items to include in detail shots. They look amazing and add a special touch to any detail. When you speak with your florist ask them to include a couple extra bunches of loose flowers with your wedding bouquet.
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