Your wedding photos tell the story of your day – its emotions, energy, and atmosphere. Whether you prefer candid moments, romantic portraits, or editorial-style imagery, having a thoughtful plan helps you feel confident and supported. 

These 10 essential outdoor wedding photos bring together the most impactful tips for creating a gallery you’ll love for years to come.

1. Capture Meaningful Getting-Ready Moments

The morning of your wedding sets the emotional tone for the entire day. Ask your photographer to document the details that often go unnoticed but mean the world later.

Key shots to include:

  • Your dress, hanging in beautiful natural light
  • Your shoes, jewellery and bouquet
  • Candid bridal party laughter
  • Emotional interactions with parents
  • Hair and makeup touch-ups

Choosing a clean, bright space helps elevate the final look of these photos, keeping everything soft, elegant and timeless.

2. Decide on a First Look (or Not)

A first look is one of the biggest decisions for your wedding photography ideas. It offers a private, intimate moment for just the two of you before the ceremony, and it allows more portrait time earlier in the day.

If you prefer tradition, waiting for the aisle keeps emotions raw and builds beautiful anticipation.

Either choice works well, just make sure to:

  1. Discuss timing with your photographer
  2. Ensure the schedule allows breathing room
  3. Choose a location with great light for the moment

3. Use Natural Backdrops & Outdoor Light

Outdoor wedding photos feel organic, romantic, and atmospheric. Natural light adds softness and texture that indoor lighting often can’t replicate.

Use what your venue offers:

  • Gardens and courtyards
  • Coastal cliffs or beaches
  • Forest paths or fields
  • Lakesides and open countryside

These settings help your portraits feel grounded in your location and create a sense of depth and storytelling.

4. Incorporate Architecture for Framed Portraits

Architectural elements act like natural frames, guiding the viewer’s eye and adding visual interest.

Beautiful framing options include:

  • Archways and doorways
  • Stone staircases
  • Long paths lined with hedges
  • Elegant iron gates
  • Historic walls or columns

These features make your photos feel intentional and editorial, and they work in both urban and countryside weddings.

5. Add Personal & Cultural Accessories

The most memorable romantic wedding photos often include personal touches that reflect who you are as a couple.

Think about adding:

  • Embroidered or pearl-detailed veils
  • Cultural garments or family heirlooms
  • Hats, gloves or bold jewellery
  • Statement shoes
  • Sentimental charms or keepsakes

These elements don’t just elevate your portraits; they capture your story and background.

6. Prioritise Candid Moments

While posed outdoor wedding portraits are important, candid photos bring your gallery to life with genuine emotion. They capture the in-between moments that feel real.

Great candid opportunities include:

  1. Laughing with your wedding party
  2. Private moments after your ceremony
  3. Guests interacting naturally
  4. Children playing
  5. Quick glances or touches between the two of you

Let your photographer know you love candid storytelling so they can stay alert to these unscripted moments.

7. Bring Movement Into Your Photos

Movement makes your photos feel dynamic and full of joy. It’s also perfect for couples who feel shy in front of the camera.

Try incorporating:

  • Walking hand-in-hand
  • A gentle twirl
  • Tossing the veil
  • Champagne sprays
  • Confetti celebrations
  • Slow, natural interaction while talking

Movement encourages natural expressions and helps you feel relaxed and authentic.

8. Choose Iconic or Scenic Locations

Adding a second location – or simply stepping outside your venue – can completely elevate your outdoor wedding photos.

Consider:

  • City streets at golden hour
  • Rooftops with skyline views
  • Botanical gardens or local parks
  • Historic buildings or museums
  • Countryside fields and open landscapes

These settings add variety to your gallery and create a strong sense of place, making your wedding feel uniquely yours.

9. Plan for Relaxed Group Photos

Group photos are often the most time-sensitive part of the day. Planning them well helps everything run smoothly.

Tips for better group portraits:

  • Prepare a list of must-have combinations
  • Share it with your photographer beforehand
  • Build extra time into your schedule
  • Designate a helper who knows both families

Relaxed, well-organised group photos leave more time for fun, candid moments later.

10. Consider a Second Shooter for Full Coverage

A second photographer adds coverage, perspective, and depth to your gallery, especially valuable for larger venues or busy wedding days.

Benefits include:

  1. Bride and groom prep are photographed simultaneously
  2. Different angles of the ceremony
  3. More candid guest reactions
  4. Wider storytelling throughout the day
  5. Drone or overhead shots – where allowed

Big Day Productions offers multi-photographer coverage, ensuring consistent quality and reliable support across the UK.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I choose the right photographer for my outdoor wedding?  

When selecting a photographer, consider their portfolio to ensure their style aligns with your vision. Meet them in person or via video call to discuss your ideas, check their experience with outdoor settings, and see if their personality matches yours. 

2. What should I wear for an outdoor wedding photoshoot?  

Opt for outfits that fit the venue’s environment. Light, flowing fabrics work well for outdoor settings, while structured outfits can add a touch of elegance. Consider the weather and terrain; comfortable shoes are essential if walking on grass or uneven surfaces.

3. How can I ensure my outdoor photos are not affected by adverse weather conditions?  

Planning for a backup location is key. Discuss options with your photographer in advance, and keep an eye on weather forecasts leading up to your wedding. If the weather doesn’t cooperate, you can still capture beautiful memories in a covered area or indoors.

Why Couples Across the UK Choose Big Day Productions

Big Day Productions is a name you can count on all over the UK. We offer consistent pricing no matter where you are in the country. Moreover, our photo galleries are not only stunning but also cohesive.

All our photographers have a similar style and maintain a professional vibe. This means we’ve shot countless weddings, whether it’s an intimate city elopement or a grand countryside celebration.

Thanks to our nationwide model, our prices stay reasonable while still delivering excellent quality.

Contact Big Day Productions, and let’s start planning your outdoor wedding photos.