Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life and your photos are a way to preserve those precious moments forever. However, some couples experience wedding photo regrets after the big day. Whether it’s a missed shot, a location choice, or something about the timing, these regrets can make you wish you had done things differently. Here in Kansas, there are many unique ways to make your wedding photos stand out.
Regret #1 – Not Planning for Golden Hour
One of the most common photo regrets couples have is not taking advantage of the “golden hour”—the soft, warm light during sunrise or just before sunset. Kansas has wide-open skies, and this light can add a magical glow to your wedding photos, especially if you’re tying the knot in scenic areas like the Flint Hills.
Tip: Make sure to talk to your photographer ahead of time about scheduling your portraits around golden hour. A quick 30 minutes during this time can yield stunning, dreamy shots that you’ll cherish forever.
Regret #2 – Overlooking Pre-Ceremony Photos
The moments leading up to your wedding are full of emotion and excitement. From the bride’s gown to the groom’s suit, these photos can help tell the full story of your day. Many couples also regret not having a private first look. It’s a personal and emotional moment, and it can also help with photo timing, allowing you to get some amazing shots without the pressure of the ceremony or reception.
Tip: Consider doing a first look to capture those candid, intimate moments without distractions. It also gives you the opportunity to take portraits with your wedding party and family before the ceremony, saving time later in the day. Check out our blog about First Look Wedding Photos to more inspiration!
Regret #3 – Forgetting About the Details
It’s easy to focus on the big picture, but the small details often get overlooked in photos. The flowers, your shoes, the invitations, and even the rings are just as important and can tell the story of your day. Kansas weddings often have unique, personalized touches like local wildflowers, rustic barn settings, and classic Midwestern touches that deserve to be captured.
Tip: Don’t forget to include a shot list of small details for your photographer. This can help ensure that everything you’ve worked hard to put together is documented beautifully.
Regret #4 – Not Allocating Enough Time for Photos
Sometimes couples underestimate how much time is needed for wedding photos. Between the ceremony, reception, and family photos, it’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of the day. But rushing through photos means sacrificing quality and missing some of the best moments.
Tip: Set aside ample time for your photos. Discuss with your photographer how much time they need for each shot, and factor that into your schedule.
Regret #5 – Not Thinking About Your Venue’s Lighting
From elegant ballrooms to rustic barns, Kansas is home to some beautiful event venues. However, lighting can vary greatly depending on the space, and poor lighting can affect the quality of your photos.
Tip: Communicate with your photographer and your venue coordinator about your venue’s lighting. For indoor weddings, you may want to consider extra lighting. Even venues with natural lighting help create a brighter and more flattering atmosphere for your photos.
Regret #6 – Skipping Professional Family Photos
Family photos are an important part of your wedding day. Many couples regret not dedicating enough time to them, especially when they have a bigger family. While it’s natural to want to rush to the reception to party, these photos are a way to preserve memories with loved ones who may not be around forever.
Tip: Designate someone (like your wedding planner or maid of honor) to help organize the family groupings so that the photographer can get these photos quickly and efficiently. You could also take part in the Five Minute Photo Challenge during your reception! Your future self will thank you for these cherished memories.
Regret #7 – Not Having a Backup Plan for Weather
It’s no secret that Kansas weather can be unpredictable. Many couples regret not having a backup plan when rain or strong winds crash their scheduled photo time.
Tip: Be prepared for the weather. Have a backup plan with your photographer, whether it’s an indoor spot at your venue or a sheltered outdoor location.
Regret # 8 – Not Enjoying the Moment
Lastly, some couples regret being too focused on the photos and not fully enjoying the wedding day itself. It’s easy to get caught up in trying to make everything perfect, but sometimes the best photos happen when you’re just being present with each other and your loved ones.
Tip: Trust your Kansas wedding photographer to capture those cherished candid photos and enjoy the moments. The best photos come when you’re relaxed, having fun, and savoring every second of your Kansas wedding day.
Complete Weddings + Events Manhattan, KS | Photographers | Videographers | DJs | Photo Booth Rental | Coordination
Whether you want a trendy celebration or a traditional wedding, let Complete Weddings + Events Kansas help you bring your wedding dreams to life! With our photography, videography, DJ, photo booth, and coordination services, we’re here to make your wedding day an unforgettable experience.
The best part is you get a team of wedding professionals to help with all the details from our knowledgeable office staff, in-house full-time wedding planners, and experienced event staff. We have you covered and want your planning process to be a stress-free experience!
Contact us for more information on our services and pricing for your big day!