The Smallest Details
A lot of thought goes into a wedding, right down to the perfume you wear. My job, as a photographer, is to make sure these details are captured so that years down the line, you will remember the little things.
Whatever details you chose to incorporate on your day, I want them to have their moment and be treated with just as much value as the rest of the day.
The purpose of this guide is to introduce you to flat lays and help you make the decision if these photos are something you want included in your gallery.
What is a Flat Lay?
You may have come across the terms flat lay or detail shots throughout wedding planning. A flat lay is a dedicated image set that focuses on details you chose for your wedding day, featured in pictures they otherwise wouldn't be. This can include, but is not limited to the wedding rings, invitations, perfume/cologne, extra flowers, jewelry, etc. Your wedding has been customized to reflect you, and these small details are no different.
Flat lays can be individual for each the Bride and Groom, or it can be a combined set with items from both sides.
Items to Choose from
The details you include in flat lay photos could be anything that has meaning to you, with sentimental value or chosen specifically for the big day. Below is a list to get you started, to pick and choose from or gain inspiration for your own day.
Bride
- Wedding and Engagement Rings
- Perfume
- Jewelry: Necklace, Earrings, Rings, Bracelets
- Shoes
- Hair Pieces: Veil, Bow, Ribbon, Pins
- Garter
- Dress Hanger
Groom
- Wedding Band
- Cologne
- Accessories: Tie, Watch, Jewelry, Cufflinks
- Shoes
- Pocket Square
- Boutonniere
Other
- Wedding Stationary with envelopes: invitations, programs, thank you cards
- Vow Books
- Ring Boxes
- Flowers and Loose Petals
The Rings
No wedding day is complete without the wedding rings. They are a symbol of marriage, the representation of your union. That being said, they need plenty of time in the spotlight. The rings are often chosen to represent the couple's individuality and personality. I want to make sure that they are captured authentically.
Invitations
When you send out invitations, you put time and effort into choosing the right colors and details, including the announcement, RSVP, Rehearsal Dinner information, and any other insert you have included.
Accessories
Necklaces, bracelets, watches, any additional jewelry or accessories need to be features as well. They add an element of personal touch to the detail photos and often have sentimental value.
Photographing the Details
If you chose to have photos of your details taken, make sure to have everything together so there is no scramble trying to find missing pieces. This also makes it easier for me get everything back to you without any problems.
Taking photos like this does take some time, with setting up the different shots and getting photos of each detail. Detail shots should be factored into your timeline and letting me know ahead of time will make sure I get there early enough to take my time to make it look beautiful.
Are Flat Lays right for you?
Every couple is going to be different, and every wedding will have different focuses. Some people spend hours choosing the right details and making sure the day reflects them in every aspect and want pictures to recognize that. Some couples don't put as much time into these parts of the wedding and find that these photos don't matter as much compared to others. Whatever you decide will be reflected in your gallery and cherished for many years to come.
