You would probably recognize a wedding flat lay if you saw one, but the actual term might be something you’re not as familiar with. A flat lay is one of the most popular types of wedding detail shots. While the term “detail shot” can refer to anything from flower arrangements and ring close-ups, to place settings and cakes, a flat lay is different. It’s arranged on any flat surface (hence the name), such as the floor, a table, a piece of fabric, or a decorative styling board. It’s a specific type of photo is a collection of objects that have been intentionally arranged to create a styled, artistic photograph. Flat lay photos go nicely to help define the tone and set the story of your wedding day, bringing together both your style as well as your legacy, all in one spot as a keepsake that lasts beyond your wedding day.
Emily Hancock Photography
Our top tips to ensure your photographer can create the perfect flat lay photos on your wedding day
Ask about a styling kit
Some photographers arrive on your wedding day ready to go with a styling kit of their own. This allows brides to splurge a little on special details without worrying about the basics. We also come to each wedding with styling items, such as ribbons, ring boxes, styling scissors, wax seals and styling dishes in all sorts of sizes. These little treats allow us to beautifully display your details and fill out the images.
Ask your florist for some extra florals
A perfect way to personalize your wedding flat lays is to request a few extra blooms and greenery to be delivered on the morning of your wedding specifically for photos. Just tell your wedding florist what they are for and they will know exactly what you need!
Ashley Eagleson Photography
Pack the details in advance
The night before your wedding is going to be all kinds of busy and you’ll be feeling all kinds of things. It’s definitely not the time to be packing up your flat lay items. We recommend putting everything together at least a week in advance to make sure you don’t forget a thing. Here is a list of the items you could include:
– Invitation Suite (including saves the date, invitation, RSVP card, details card, menu card and envelopes)
– Something Old, New, Borrowed and Blue
– Engagement Ring and Wedding Bands
– Tie
– Personalized Hangers
– Perfume/Cologne
– Shoes
– Jewelry
– Vow Books
– Veil
– Bouquet and Boutonniere
– Family Heirlooms
– Hair Pieces
– Cufflinks
Ashley Eagleson Photography
Think unique
Bring a little of your own personality into your flat lay by including an item or two that is uniquely you! We love bringing in a little more of your story and background into your wedding day.
Give your photographer time
If you only allot a few minutes to squeeze in the details photos, there are things that 100% will not get photographed. If you could care less about details and would prefer to get more photos of y’all hanging out during hair and makeup, that’s okay! But if you want the gorgeous detail shots and want to capture every little thing that you spent time curating, you have to give your photographer time to get those photos. The wedding day goes by so fast and there are so many moments to capture, so I know prioritizing things will be different for every single couple, but be open and honest with your photographer so you make sure that you’re walking away with the photos that you want.
Wedding Flat Lay inspiration
Every photographer or wedding planner has their own method when it comes to creating wedding flat lays, so no two are exactly alike. Use these ideas to get inspired about the different types of flat lays and the variety of items you can include for when your big day comes!
Photography DuJour
Ashley Eagleson Photography
Ashley Eagleson Photography
Christy McKee Photography
Birds of a Feather Photography
La Vie En Rose Photography
Jen Fariello Photography
Emily Hancock Photography
Want more behind the scenes of creating wedding flat lays? We spent the day with two of our favorite photographers and playing with All The Dainty Details. Check out Emily Hancock’s blog post here for more!!
