Photo: Caroline + Ben Photography
It’s hard to resist the temptation to take pictures at your friend’s wedding. She’s going to look stunning, the décor will be on point, and everyone will be smiling and having a blast. You’ll want to capture those moments! But there’s nothing worse than a beautiful shot of the bride and groom’s first kiss, with a friend or family member leaning out into the aisle with their phone to get a picture of their own. So should you put your camera away when it’s time for your friend to walk down the aisle? Our experts weigh in.
Before you take out your camera, figure out if your friend would be okay with you snapping a few shots. Was there a note on her website specifying that the ceremony will be unplugged? Did you pass a sign on your way to your seat, or see a disclaimer at the top of the ceremony program? Did the officiant make an announcement about putting your phone away before the processional started? If you were asked to keep your phone and camera in your purse during the ceremony, listen! You’ll be helping make sure your friend has the ceremony she wants, as well as get the pictures she’s hoping for. There’s an added bonus: Keeping your phone in your pocket means you’ll be 100% present as the ceremony proceeds, won’t miss a single detail of the sweet vows, and will be able to truly share in their joy.
If you weren’t told not to take pictures, consider doing so anyway. Sure, you won’t be able to Instagram that moment your friend comes down the aisle, but you’ll be able to see it instead of watching through a screen. And with all the money your friends spent on their photographer, they’ll appreciate that you did your part to make sure their pictures look as great as possible. So maybe encourage the guest seated next to you to do the same!
See More: Should You Take Family Photos Before the Wedding Ceremony?