Should You Allow Your Guests to Take Photos at Your Wedding?

Should You Allow Your Guests to Take Photos at Your Wedding?

Guest post by Charrie Hayes

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Since technology has become such a huge part of our lives, many engaged couples have taken the opportunity to go ‘unplugged’ on their wedding day. In fact, research shows that up to 75% of respondents are committed to, or thinking about, having a wedding in which phone use is restricted. 

While it’s a wonderful idea to put away all distractions for the day, there may be some benefits to allowing your guests to keep their phones, and take some of their own photos throughout your wedding celebration. If it’s something you’re considering, read on for three reasons this trend could be the right choice for you. 

Experience the day from your guests’ perspective

Your wedding day will be one of the most special experiences of your entire life. You won’t want to miss any of it – but unfortunately, you simply can’t be in more than one place at a time, to witness each and every moment.

By allowing your guests to take photos, you’ll be able to look back at some of the fun things they got up to during your wedding celebration. From interactions between friends to the excitement of receiving your wedding favors, there’s plenty to be seen and experienced through your guests’ eyes – it makes for a great opportunity to appreciate all the hard work that went into creating this perfect celebration.

Capture every memorable moment

Your wedding photographer plays a key part in your wedding day, and will be there for most of the important moments. However, it’s common for couples to choose a photography package that wraps up swiftly once the reception has begun, in order to save a little cash on what could potentially be a long, all-night party.

Once your photographer’s gone home, there will still be lots of wonderful moments to capture on camera. By allowing your guests to take their own photos, you’ll be able to see exactly what they got up to on the dance floor. Plus, it could make for some amusing and memorable action shots!

 A different style of photography

There’s nothing like having a perfectly coordinated, aesthetically pleasing photo album of your wedding, arranged to complement your chosen tone and style. However, you shouldn’t discount other kinds of photography – mobile phone cameras can capture great candids in a way that feels natural and raw.

Different kinds of photography will be appropriate for different types of displays, and while a professionally taken shot might look great on your mantelpiece, a wholesome, unstaged guest photo may make a great future gift for a treasured friend. 

How can you make the most of your photos?

Whether you choose to welcome guest photos at your wedding or leave the documentation of your day entirely up to a professional, there are lots of ways that you can make use of your photos once you’ve received them.

You may want to select a few that you send out as a thank you to your friends and family. If you have a traditional taste, you could send a few simple photo prints, or if you want to get creative, send a customized mug, coaster or key chain. For a top tip, consider speaking with your photographer – they may have some great suggestions for making the most of your photos, whether they’ve been taken by them or by your guests.

Most importantly, you’ll want to select your favorite photos to display loudly and proudly in your home. Consider a framed or mounted photo, for a standout piece you’ll always treasure.