Ultimate Guide to Flat Lay Wedding Detail Photos: What to Include and How to Style

Couples put so much thought, time, and attention into choosing the details that make up their wedding day. After the day, many of these decisions only live on in photos and memories. Since memories can be unreliable, it’s crucial to capture those decisions and details in photos. Often, couples don’t know what to include in these detail shots, so I wanted to write this guide to help.

 

Flat lay photos are aesthetic detail shots where the items are arranged to showcase all the important details from the day in a single frame. These photos highlight the beauty and thoughtfulness of the wedding details and create a visual narrative of the day.

 

For the bride, essential items to include in a wedding detail flat lay are shoes, rings, earrings, bracelets, any other jewelry, perfume, vow books, loose florals from your day, and any hair accessories. Invitation suites are also popular, but I typically shoot those in a separate shot so that there’s a bridal detail shot and an invitation suite shot. If there aren’t enough details for either, I sometimes combine them for a fuller frame. For the groom, items should include shoes, watch, tie, cologne, ring, and vow book. Couples are encouraged to include other items outside of these recommendations if they hold special meaning or add a personal touch.

 

There are also items that are often overlooked but add significant value to the photo. Having loose florals from your florist is my number one recommendation. Additionally, if during your planning you come across items with colors or textures that you like and own, include them. These can be ribbons, trinkets, or anything that adds a personal touch.

 

When styling a flat lay, I first find a place where the light is gorgeous. Every great photo starts with light. I then look for a suitable backdrop that is either neutral or an iconic part of the venue—think cute tiles, a leather bench, etc. If there’s not a suitable backdrop where the light is phenomenal, I often bring my own flat lay backdrops to provide a suitable neutral tone for the details to stand out against.

 

I then decide what the most important details are and what the supporting details will be. I position the main items in a way that balances the frame, with supporting ones filling in the gaps. If the invitation suite is included, I decide whether everything will be at perfect 90-degree angles to each other or arranged in a more chaotic, yet aesthetic way. Finally, I fill in the textures, florals, and accessories until the frame feels balanced. I prefer to shoot multiple scenes that feel minimal and purposeful rather than crowd a scene to fit everything in.

 

The composition of a flat lay can vary depending on the type of details. Some weddings lend themselves to really organic, flowing compositions, while others are more structured and balanced. I look to the selection of details for guidance. If the invitation suite has rough edges or lots of ribbons and organic typeface, I usually go for a more fluid arrangement. If everything is more “clean,” I stick to straighter lines.

 

Lighting is another crucial aspect of capturing wedding details. Wedding details really shine in harsh light. While harsh light often isn’t flattering for human faces, the contrast between light and dark makes the images pop. A window with direct sunlight coming in and splashing onto the floor is ideal if we’re doing detail photos at the getting ready spot (recommended). If it’s at the venue, dappled sunlight under a tree is another great option.

 

To enhance the flat lay, I use acrylic blocks to add depth to invitations and details. These blocks get hidden under the items but provide depth. I also bring neutral backgrounds to have an option if everything else isn’t quite right and neutral ring boxes that allow the rings to shine.

 

Capturing beautiful flat lay and detail shots is all about reflecting the essence of your wedding day through thoughtful styling, composition, and lighting. Including personal touches and unique elements makes these photos more than just a collection of items; they tell the story of your special day in a visually stunning way. So gather those meaningful details, think about the story you want to tell, and let’s create something beautiful together!