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Finding The One – How to Choose the Perfect Wedding Venue for Photos

Owain
April 13, 2025
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You’ve said yes to forever—now it’s time to say yes to the perfect place to celebrate it.

Choosing your wedding venue is one of the biggest (and most exciting) decisions you’ll make during the planning process. It sets the tone for your entire day: the atmosphere, the photos, the timeline, the dress code—and sometimes even the guest list. Whether you're dreaming of a rustic barn, a grand estate, or a laid-back beach celebration, the right venue brings your vision to life.

Here’s what to keep in mind when searching for the one:

1. Think About the Vibe

Before you start touring venues, take a moment to picture your day. Are you going for romantic and elegant? Relaxed and boho? Modern and stylish? The vibe you want will help narrow down your options and keep everything feeling cohesive.

Pro tip: Your venue will show up in almost every photo—so choose somewhere that reflects your style and personality.

2. Consider the Light (Yes, Really!)

As wedding photographers, we can’t stress this enough: light matters.

Venues with large windows, open outdoor spaces, or softly lit interiors help create those dreamy, natural images every couple loves. Dark, overly artificial spaces can be more challenging (though not impossible!) to shoot. Ask about natural light and photo-friendly spaces when you tour.

3. Location, Location, Logistics

Think about where your guests are coming from. Is the venue easy to find? Does it have accommodation nearby or on-site? Will you need transport for the wedding party? And how far is it from where you’re getting ready?

Bonus tip: If your venue has multiple beautiful backdrops on-site, you can save time (and stress) on the day by not needing to travel for photos.

Groom and his father posing together for a formal portrait, both dressed in wedding attire and smiling proudly
Bride laughing as she cuts the wedding cake with her new husband, sharing a playful and joyous moment together

4. What’s Included?

Some venues offer all-inclusive packages, while others are a blank canvas. There’s no right or wrong—just make sure you know what’s included:

  • Catering?

  • Tables and chairs?

  • Styling or decor?

  • Coordination support?

  • Recommended suppliers?

Having a clear idea of what’s provided can help you stay within budget and avoid last-minute surprises.

5. Ask About the Photo Policy

Not all venues are created equal when it comes to photography. Some have restrictions on where you can shoot, others may have lighting rules or time limits. Be sure to ask about:

  • Indoor and outdoor photo opportunities

  • Drone photography (if you’re considering it)

  • Sunset timing and the best spots for portraits

As photographers, we’re happy to help you scout the most photogenic spots and even give recommendations based on past weddings we’ve shot!

Some of Our Favourite Local Wedding Venues

Want inspiration? Here are a few we absolutely love shooting at:

  • [Venue Name 1] – Ideal for romantic countryside weddings with golden hour magic

  • [Venue Name 2] – A stunning modern space with huge windows and sleek architecture

  • [Venue Name 3] – Rustic charm meets timeless elegance (plus amazing staff!)

Your Venue Is Just the Beginning

Once you’ve found the perfect place to celebrate your love, everything else starts to fall into place. And when the day finally arrives, we’ll be there to capture it all—from the setting, to the smiles, to the spontaneous moments you didn’t even know happened.

If you’re in the process of venue hunting, drop us a message—we’re happy to share advice, recommendations, and insights from a photographer’s perspective.

📍 Planning your 2025 wedding? Let’s chat about your vision. We’d love to help you make the most of your location and capture every beautiful detail.


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