With the advent of smaller cameras, camera phones, and social media, it has become easier to cover and share pictures of every single moment of people’s lives, from significant events such as family reunions to what a person has for breakfast. It most cases, taking photos is considered harmless fun. Unfortunately, most people are not aware that there are situations where photographs should not be taken.

Weddings are an example. Although they are grand social events, the bridal couple has planned for the event to turn out in a certain way.

Couples hire professional photographers to capture their event. Their professional fees amount to approximately 12 percent of the total cost of the wedding.

Given the investment, they expect professional images of the event — not shots of the couple with everybody else’s selfie sticks in the way.

To avoid committing one of the worst wedding faux pas as a guest, an experienced wedding planner shares a few etiquette tips for wedding guests who want to take photos during the event.

1. Always give way to the professional photographer

It is understandable that you want to capture every single detail of the event. You could be a close relative or friend of the bride or groom, and you want to show the world how happy you are about their union. However, there is no need to take the place of the professional photographer.

Professional photographers have the eye, the expertise and the tools needed to take those once-in-a-lifetime shots. The couple want to see quality images of them getting married in an exotic wedding location in Dubai, giving their first kiss, taking their first dance as a couple, the bride’s wedding attire, the guests and other details. Do not ruin it by getting into the photographer’s frame.

2. Keep photo paraphernalia hidden

Selfie sticks, chest straps, head straps, and other similar camera accessories make it easier to take photos and videos from a wider range of angles and perspectives. However, they can be awkward and unsightly. Besides accidentally hitting people along the way, they can also negatively affect the look of the image.

Camera accessories can also make the wearer look out of place. Imagine attending an Indian-themed wedding wearing a headdress with a camera strapped to your forehead. It might be a small detail but a noticeable one.

If you really want to take photos, stick to smaller devices that you can easily tuck away, such as a smartphone. Avoid using any additional accessories to avoid sticking out in the photos or videos of the event.

3. Ask before sharing

You don’t need to be the first one to share photos. As much as possible, let the couple and their hired photographer release the official photos first. Think of it is common courtesy given that it is the couple’s event.

Some couples go so far as banning guests from taking photos or sharing them online. If this is not explicitly communicated, ask the couple prior to the event if they have any requirements or objections when it comes to taking photos and sharing them online.

Curate the photos you plan to send. No need to send hundreds of photos. Select a few of your best shots.

When sharing photos online, try to choose photos where the subjects are having fun or look their best. Avoid embarrassing the couple or their guests by taking photos of people at their lowest point or from unflattering angles. The goal is to take photos that celebrate their union, not the mishaps during the event.

Focus on the fun

By keeping these tips in mind, you can safely take photos without being seen as a nuisance. Remember that you are an invited guest, and there are professionals hired to make the event run as smoothly as possible.

The couple invited you to share this momentous moment with them, not to take photos specifically. So enjoy the wedding and join the rest of the crowd in celebrating the couple’s union. Have a fabulous day!

AUTHOR BIO

Masha Cain is a founder and a managing director of Fabulous Day Weddings & Events. Masha’s idea of having a wedding planning agency came from having a wedding planner at her own wedding. Now, 5 years later, there are over 100 successful weddings designed and planned by Masha and her team.