When I first started wedding photography, I would ask my couples to set aside their wedding details for flat lays. “What is a flat lay?” was usually the email that followed. A flat lay is a combination of details that show the wedding colors and details for the big day. I typically start wedding days with flat lays and I want to make it go as smoothly as possible so we can get to all the fun! Once you finish reading this, you will have everything you need to give to your photographer and remanence on those special details you may have never thought about photographing!
- Let your photographer know your colors
Colors are super important when it comes to the flat lay! I like to carry around a “wedding detail box” where I have about 30 different colored ribbons. I also have different sized squares that are wooden and transparent, ring boxes, dental wax (literally a must have for ring shots), I even have a replica surface for emergencies just in case I can’t find the perfect location for details. I like to use all of these as a base for what is to come next!
- Talk to your florist about extra florals/stems
Most florists don’t have an issue giving a few extra florals or stems when they drop off all the florals! I love adding these flowers into the flat lay for some extra details to show off every little thing from your wedding. If you can’t get extra florals, no big deal! If you want to show off the florals you can include the groom’s boutonniere or your bouquet of flowers in the background!
- Have your items set aside and ready to go.
I think this is my No. 1 tip I tell all my brides! Grab a box (could be as little as a shoe box), and put alllll your items in it. On the day of your wedding when your photographer arrives you just hand them the box and boom! You won’t have to scramble to find all your important details because you already did all the hard work and you will thank yourself for this. Not sure what to add??? Check out tip No. 4.
- Items to include
- Invitation
- Save the dates
- Ceremony Program
- RINGS
- Earrings
- Bracelets
- Necklace
- Ring Box
- Shoes
- Bouquet
- Veil
- Vow Books/Letters to eachother
- Any Sentimental items
- Make Sure it is YOU
I’ve had large extravagant flat lays that include almost everything listed above or just days where I only shoot the rings. I say this because there is no right or wrong thing to include in your flat lay. Your flat lay should represent you and your wedding day, and no matter what you include it is going to be beautiful!
- Don’t forget the groom!
A little bonus tip to throw in here, but don’t forget the groom. This is their big day too! I find that their details are pretty simple, here is what I typically include:
- Shoes
- Watch
- Tie/bow tie
- Cufflinks
- Cologne
- Vow book
And that’s it! Flat lays are such a special keepsake because it includes those little things that make your wedding day unique. If you want to learn more about flat lays reach out to me HERE!
