Ceremony
The chuppah: seven things that ruin photos, and how to prevent them
4 min read
1. Phones
Twenty lit screens between the photographer and the bride. The most effective fix is one sentence from the MC or officiant: "The couple asked for a phone-free ceremony — the photographers are here for you." Works nine times out of ten.
2. Facing the sun
A chuppah facing west at six in the evening means a squinting couple and guests in shadow. In the planning meeting we check where it faces and at what hour, and suggest moving it or the time. The exact sunset for your date is the starting point.
3. Who stands where
An officiant standing between the two of you hides the kiss. Ask them to stand to the side and step back for the ring and the kiss. They know; they just need to be told.
4. The chuppah itself
White fabric overhead is beautiful light. Heavy flowers at the front hide the couple from the guests' side. A good designer thinks about camera angles too — tell them there will be photographers.
5. The drone
A drone over the ceremony is loud, pulls eyes upward and usually needs a permit. If you want one, it flies during arrivals, not during the vows.
6. The glass, unrehearsed
A glass wrapped in a napkin that nobody checked means two awkward stomps. Ask the venue for a thin glass and know where it will be.
7. Rushing off
The minute after — the walk back, the hugs, the parents — is one of the best of the night. Give it sixty seconds before moving to the dance floor.