Welcome to The Wedding and Elopement Guide from Aly Robinson Photography
Your love story is a masterpiece—cinematic, romantic, and unforgettable. I’m honoured to document your wedding with artistry, passion, and intention.
This Wedding and Elopement Guide is your complete roadmap. No scattered tips—just everything you need to create breathtaking, timeless wedding photography. Inside, you’ll find three sections: The Wedding Day, The Aesthetics, and The Experience. Every detail is carefully curated to enhance your journey.
Photography is more than capturing moments—it’s crafting a story. Your love deserves depth, beauty, and a touch of dark romance. This Wedding and Elopement Guide ensures every moment is effortless, every detail intentional, and every photograph a work of art. Let’s begin.
SO—YOU READY TO DO THIS THING? Let’s do it!
Let me tell you everything I know
This is me sitting you down, like my dearest friend, and saying, “Let me tell you everything.”
I have witnessed love in its rawest, most breathtaking form. As a photographer, I don’t just attend weddings—I live them. From the first touch of makeup to the final farewell, I absorb every moment, every detail, every fleeting glance. And after years of experience, here’s the most honest truth: a photograph’s beauty comes down to two things—who captures it and what is being captured.
Let me explain. The dreamiest photos? They happen when stunning light exists and a skilled photographer seizes it. The most cinematic backdrops? They are chosen with intention. Authentic, effortless moments? They are created, not forced. None of this is about budget or pretending—it’s about understanding what makes a photograph extraordinary.
As your photographer, I will create magic no matter the setting. It’s my job to make moments look even more enchanting than they were. But I want more than just making things work—I want to deliver the most exquisite, jaw-dropping images you’ve ever seen.
That’s why I created this guide. Inside, you’ll find everything I’ve learned—what works beautifully, what makes things harder, what elevates your experience, and what to expect while working with me. This is about crafting the absolute best version of your wedding story—one worth every penny, every moment, every heartbeat.
And to make that happen, I need you right there with me. Let’s create something unforgettable.
The Art of the Morning: Getting Ready
The morning of your wedding is steeped in anticipation, intimacy, and quiet magic. Some couples skip getting ready photos, but I highly recommend them. These moments—soft candlelit glances, whispered laughter, trembling hands fastening buttons—capture the most cinematic, romantic essence of your day.
The Start of the Day
Wedding mornings unfold in slow, unpolished beauty. The timeline shifts, unexpected delays creep in, and nerves settle like mist. Give yourself breathing room—allow space for the morning to feel intentional, not rushed. Set aside a dedicated getting-ready space for each group to avoid last-minute confusion. Clear expectations create a smooth, stress-free start.
Choosing the Perfect Space
The right setting transforms your photos from ordinary to exquisite. Seek a space bathed in natural light with large windows, neutral tones, and uncluttered surroundings. White or soft-toned walls reflect light beautifully, creating a luminous, fine-art aesthetic.
Avoid dark basements, fluorescent lighting, or tight, chaotic spaces. If possible, use a sunlit master bedroom or an official bridal suite. Keep makeup stations and styling areas tidy—the cleaner the space, the more you stand out.
The Magic of Pre-First Looks
Brides, considering a first look with your bridesmaids? Do it. The joy in their eyes when they see you dressed for the first time is unforgettable. I’ll guide the moment—having them step out while you get dressed, then capturing their emotional reactions as they return.
Thinking of a first look with a parent, sibling, or mentor? Absolutely, yes. These are the moments that stay with you forever. The teary-eyed pride in a father’s gaze, a mother’s whispered words of love—these are the photographs that hold weight, depth, and meaning.
A private first look with your soon to be spouse? I’m not a traditionalist and this one is my favourite. YES!
Let the morning be slow. Let it be sacred. Let it be yours.
The Art of the Details
The smallest details whisper the story of your day. When I arrive, I’ll first ask for your details to capture them with intention. Though they may seem minor, these photographs create a visual tapestry of your wedding’s elegance, romance, and meaning.
Preparing the Details
To create a seamless start, gather all your details in one place before I arrive. This ensures nothing is lost in the chaos of the morning, allowing me to photograph them beautifully and without rush. Consider including:
Any meaningful objects: perfume, love letters, family keepsakes.
Both wedding bands: and the engagement ring.
Wedding bouquet: and any sentimental florals.
Official wedding invitation: or vow books.
Both pairs of shoes: yours and your partner’s.
Groom’s details: tie, socks, belt, cufflinks.
Wedding dress, veil, or heirloom pieces.
The First Look & Romantics
A First Look is an intimate moment where you see your partner before the ceremony—just the two of you (and me, capturing every second). It often flows seamlessly into The Romantics, where we create your most breathtaking portraits.
Should You Have a First Look?
This choice is entirely yours, but I will guide you through it if you decide to have one. Many couples feel an immediate sense of calm when they see each other before the ceremony. It also allows us to capture your couple’s portraits earlier, creating a smoother, more relaxed wedding timeline.
Want to keep tradition but crave intimacy? Try a blind First Look—stand back-to-back, hold hands, or exchange letters without seeing each other.
Making the Moment Unforgettable
Elevate this moment by bringing something meaningful to exchange. Some ideas:
- Write a letter and read it aloud.
- Exchange gifts—a watch, jewellery, a keepsake.
- Read your vows privately before sharing them at the altar.
These small gestures create deeply emotional, cinematic images that tell your story.
Choosing the Perfect Location
I will scout the best locations at your venue, but think beyond the obvious. A dramatic coastline, misty forest, or golden field nearby could elevate your photos to something truly breathtaking. If your venue lacks variety, we can explore a nearby beach, woodland, or historic ruins.
The Best Lighting for Romance
Light shapes the mood of your photos. For soft, ethereal portraits, schedule your First Look in early morning or late afternoon. Avoid the harsh midday sun (11 AM–1 PM) unless shade is available. This ensures your photos feel dreamlike, cinematic, and timeless.
Estimate time: 1-2 hours
Bridal Party
The bridal party photos are more than just posed shots—they’re a chance to bask in the moment with your closest friends. These rare moments, where all your best pals are gathered in one place, deserve to be cherished. Let go of stiff, posed shots and let your personalities shine through.
Logistics & Aesthetics
Organisation is key. Make sure everyone knows where to be and when to be there. A quick reminder for the girls to grab their bouquets and the guys their boutonnieres will keep things flowing smoothly.
Crafting Your Vision
If you have a unique vision, share it with me! If not, I’ll capture the essence of your bridal party with a mix of formal, fun, and candid shots. I also recommend capturing individual shots with each member of your party. These timeless portraits are perfect for social media and memories.
Perfect Lighting
To avoid harsh shadows, aim for your bridal party portraits outside the 11 AM to 1 PM window. Shade is our best friend during this time! If your venue has shaded spots, we’ll use them to create dreamy, flattering lighting for your photos.
Estimated time: 30 – 45 minutes
Family Photos
While family photos may not be the most artistic, they are often the most meaningful. Let’s make them count.
Planning Ahead
To keep things smooth, provide a list of desired family photo combinations before the wedding day. I’ll bring it with me.
Clear Communication
Ensure everyone in your family knows where to be and when for photos. This keeps things organised and stress-free.
Personal Tip
Focus on the family and friends who matter most. Capture the intimate moments with your closest loved ones. Don’t feel pressured to include everyone. Prioritise the photos that truly matter to you.
Estimated time: 30 minutes
The Ceremony: A Moment Suspended in Time
The moment has arrived. Before the ceremony, take a breath, hold your favourite people close, and savour the calm before the celebration begins. This is your time—let it feel sacred.
Before, During & After
Set aside 30 minutes of quiet time before the ceremony. This gives you and your bridal party space to breathe while guests arrive and the music begins.
Most ceremonies last 30 minutes to an hour, depending on traditions. Ensure your officiant knows the timing, so everything flows seamlessly.
After the ceremony, retreat to a beautiful, intentional space for your first private moments as a married couple. This is one of the most emotional parts of the day—don’t spend it in a dim, forgotten room. Find somewhere filled with light, warmth, and romance to let it truly sink in: you’re married.
Est. Time: 30-45 Mins
Creating the Perfect Ceremony Lighting
The way light moves through your ceremony space shapes the mood, the atmosphere, and the way your photographs feel. Thoughtful lighting creates images that feel cinematic, romantic, and timeless, while poor lighting can cast harsh shadows and flatten the magic of the moment. Here’s how to ensure your ceremony is as breathtaking in photos as it is in person.
Indoor Ceremonies: Embracing Natural Light
Creating the Perfect Ceremony Lighting
The way light moves through your ceremony space shapes the mood, the atmosphere, and the way your photographs feel. Thoughtful lighting creates images that feel cinematic, romantic, and timeless, while poor lighting can cast harsh shadows and flatten the magic of the moment. Here’s how to ensure your ceremony is as breathtaking in photos as it is in person.
Indoor Ceremonies: Embracing Natural Light
If you’re exchanging vows indoors, natural light is everything. Grand windows, skylights, or open spaces with soft, ambient light will elevate your photos, preserving the fine-art, ethereal aesthetic you love.
While I can adapt to any setting, relying on artificial flash shifts the mood of your images. Overhead incandescent lighting can cast unflattering shadows, and fluorescent lighting should be avoided entirely—it dulls skin tones and creates an unnatural colour cast.
Indoor ceremonies can be deeply romantic, but natural light is the secret to keeping them cinematic, elegant, and luminous.
Outdoor Ceremonies: Timing is Everything
I adore outdoor ceremonies—the wild beauty, the open skies, the way the light dances through the air. But light is unpredictable, and timing is everything.
The harshest light falls between 11 AM and 1 PM, creating unflattering shadows and washed-out tones. Instead, plan your ceremony for early morning or late afternoon/evening, when the sun is lower and softer.
For the most flattering light:
- Position the sun behind the altar, so it backlights the moment with a soft, golden glow.
- If trees are nearby, consider placing the ceremony in open shade to diffuse harsh light.
- Always have a backup plan for rain—even if it’s just elegant umbrellas.
With the right light, your ceremony will feel like a dream—both in the moment and in every photograph that follows.
The Reception: A Night to Remember
The vows have been spoken, the rings exchanged—now it’s time to celebrate. Your reception is where the romance turns into revelry, where candlelight flickers over fine crystal, and where the night feels endless. I want you to remember the joy, the movement, the magic. Here are a few key tips to ensure your reception flows beautifully and photographs like a dream.
Seamless Flow & Timeless Moments
Set an official start time for your reception and stick to it. This keeps guests engaged and ensures the energy stays high from the very first toast to the last dance.
- First dances set the tone. The moment you and your partner step onto the dance floor, the atmosphere shifts. If you want guests to join in, let them witness the romance first. Dance with your spouse, your parents—these moments will become some of your most cherished photographs.
- Cake cutting is cinematic. A shared laugh, a playful bite, a stolen kiss—it’s a perfect storytelling moment. Work with your DJ to time this just right, so no one misses it.
Mastering the Light for an Enchanted Evening
Lighting transforms everything. Whether your reception is indoors or under the stars, thoughtful lighting will elevate your photographs from lovely to breathtaking.
- Indoor receptions: If you’re in a grand hall or rustic barn, keep doors and windows open to let in natural light. If your venue has heavy curtains or blinds, open them to soften the glow of the room. Position the head table facing the light, so you’re not backlit in crucial moments.
- Outdoor receptions: A reception under the open sky or a softly lit marquee is perfect for that dreamy, cinematic look. String lights, chandeliers, or candlelit tables create a warm, romantic glow.
A Quick Tip for the Dance Floor
Many DJs use coloured lights—reds, blues, and greens—which can create unnatural, harsh tones on skin and clothing. For stunning, timeless dance floor photos, request that your DJ sticks to neutral white lighting. It’s a simple change, but it makes an incredible difference in creating elegant, share-worthy images.
Your reception should feel like a scene from a film—every glance, every laugh, every moment bathed in golden light and boundless joy. Let’s make it unforgettable.
Sunset Portraits: A Moment Just for You
The Timing
Golden hour starts about an hour before sunset and fades into the dusky blues of twilight. If your venue is surrounded by trees, hills, or buildings, the light will dip even earlier, so I’ll be keeping a close eye on the horizon to catch it at the perfect moment.
How It Works
At some point during your reception—while guests are busy dining, dancing, or lost in laughter—I’ll come find you both for a quiet escape. Don’t worry—this isn’t unusual at all. In fact, your guests will hardly notice your absence, and we won’t need to go far.
We’ll slip away to a secluded spot, away from the hum of the party, and capture something truly special: a quiet, cinematic moment before the celebration continues. This won’t take more than 15–20 minutes, and I promise—it will be worth it.
For just a little while, time will slow. The world will hush. And you’ll have this moment, just the two of you, forever.
The Grand Send-Off: A Finale Worth Remembering
As the night draws to a close, there’s something undeniably romantic about a grand farewell—the final moment of your wedding day, where laughter lingers in the air, hands reach out in celebration, and you and your love step into the night, hand in hand, ready to begin forever. A cinematic exit is the perfect way to close the chapter on your wedding day, whether it’s after the ceremony as you depart for the reception or at the very end of the night as you escape into the honeymoon haze.
Ideas & Tips for an Unforgettable Send-Off
Timing is Everything: If you want your send-off captured beautifully, plan for it while a good number of guests are still present. You don’t need to rush out before you’re ready, but slipping away while the energy is high ensures your farewell is as grand as your entrance.
For Evening & Nighttime Exits: Nothing compares to the magic of a sparkler send-off—golden trails of light dancing in the dark, illuminating the excitement in every smile. If you go this route, opt for long-burning sparklers to give us plenty of time to capture the moment.
For Daylight Exits: If your send-off happens before sunset, you have endless options to make it feel enchanting—bubbles floating like tiny glass orbs, fluttering eucalyptus leaves, elegant ribbon streamers, or biodegradable confetti catching the breeze. Each brings its own charm, creating a dreamy, celebratory atmosphere.
The Getaway Car: If you have access to a vintage or unique car, consider making it part of your departure. A classic getaway car adds an element of drama and romance, making your exit feel like a scene from an old-world love story.
A Perfect Ending to Your Wedding Story
While a send-off is entirely optional, it’s a stunning way to bookend your wedding gallery—a final image that encapsulates the joy, the celebration, and the love that surrounded you. Whether it’s stepping into a candlelit night or disappearing into the golden glow of sparklers, your grand exit will be a memory worth reliving, time and time again.
A Wedding That Feels Like You
Forget fleeting trends and the curated perfection of Pinterest—your wedding should be a reflection of you. The romance, the atmosphere, the details—each should speak to your story, your love, your essence. Whether your vision is steeped in cinematic grandeur, rich with darkly romantic undertones, or elegantly timeless, my role is not to dictate but to guide. You’ve already laid the foundation with the choices that feel right to you, and I’m here to ensure those choices translate into breathtaking imagery.
Choosing Your Venue
For most couples, the venue is one of the first decisions made, and often, choices are shaped by logistics, availability, and practicality. But where possible, consider these elements to ensure your space enhances the visual and emotional tone of your wedding day:
- Light is everything. If your wedding is outdoors, nature will provide the dreamiest glow. If it’s indoors, prioritise venues with expansive windows or open doors that let in as much natural light as possible. The right light transforms an image from beautiful to transcendent.
- Minimalism is timeless. If you’re marrying in a church or chapel, opt for one with bright, neutral walls and understated architectural details. Ornate spaces can be breathtaking, but a clean, elegant backdrop ensures you remain the focus of every frame.
Your wedding is the setting for your love story—let’s make sure it feels as unforgettable as the tale itself.
Setting the Scene: Location & Season
Your wedding is a story unfolding in a world of its own—a place where light, colour, and atmosphere intertwine to create something unforgettable. The setting you choose will shape not just the experience but the way your love is captured, and a carefully considered palette will ensure that every image is a work of art.
Location & Colour Harmony
For naturally lit or outdoor venues—where golden light spills across landscapes and shadows dance beneath towering trees—earthy, muted tones will always complement the setting best. Imagine deep forest greens, soft sky blues, warm rusts, ochres, burnished golds, elegant beiges, and rich browns. These colours blend seamlessly with nature’s palette, enhancing the romance of the surroundings. Bold, primary hues can feel jarring in such an organic setting, so opting for softer, nature-inspired tones will ensure a more cohesive and timeless aesthetic.
For indoor weddings, the same principles apply, but with a little extra consideration for the venue’s existing tones. Observe the space—does it lean toward warm neutrals or cooler greys? Does it have statement features that you want to complement rather than clash with? Choosing a palette that harmonises with your venue will create an effortlessly elegant atmosphere and ensure that you remain the focal point.
Seasons & Their Influence
Each season brings its own mood, its own light, its own poetry. Your colour choices should reflect the world around you:
- Spring, Summer, and Autumn offer flexibility, but leaning into seasonal tones will heighten the cinematic quality of your wedding. Autumn, in particular, calls for deeper, richer hues that echo the warmth of the changing leaves—think burnt sienna, deep burgundy, and golden amber.
- Winter weddings (November–March) have a beauty all their own, but landscapes can often feel muted, with bare branches and softened light. This is the perfect time to introduce a striking contrast—jewel tones, deep velvets, or icy pastels can add depth and dimension to your day, ensuring your photographs feel rich rather than washed out.
A final note for winter brides: Be sure to plan for the chill—elegant coats, faux furs, or delicate shawls not only add warmth but can bring an extra touch of drama and sophistication to your bridal look.
Above all, let your choices be guided by three things: your venue, your season, and the vision you’ve crafted for your wedding as a whole. When everything is in harmony, the result will be nothing short of breathtaking.
Creating a Cohesive Vision: Style, Texture & Movement
Your wedding isn’t just an event—it’s an atmosphere, a carefully composed work of art where every detail plays a part in the story. From the richness of your attire to the depth of your florals, everything should flow seamlessly, creating a world that feels cinematic, darkly romantic, and utterly you.
Crafting a Cohesive Aesthetic
While it’s easy to get lost in endless inspiration, the key to a striking, well-curated wedding is cohesion. Every choice—your venue, wardrobe, décor, and florals—should belong to the same world. Let’s break it down:
- Bridal Party Attire: If your bridesmaids are draped in deep, moody hues like crimson, plum, or black, classic tuxedos may feel too traditional in contrast. Instead, consider dark velvet blazers, deep-toned suits, or subtle leather details for the groomsmen—elements that add richness and a touch of the unexpected.
- Florals: Your bouquet should feel opulent and dramatic. Think cascading arrangements of blood-red roses, wild black calla lilies, or rich, velvety dahlias, with trailing vines and dark foliage for depth. A structured, elegant gown calls for a refined, sculptural bouquet, while intricate lace or flowing fabrics pair beautifully with a more untamed arrangement.
- Bridal Details: If your ceremony takes place in a historic venue, gothic ruins, or against the wild beauty of the Highlands, let your styling reflect that. Deep waves, a sleek chignon, or a softly undone updo pair beautifully with the drama of a cathedral veil, intricate lace gloves, or bold jewellery. Every element should feel intentional, adding to the allure of the setting rather than competing with it.
The Power of Movement & Texture
Static, structured silhouettes have their place, but if you want depth, drama, and a touch of the gothic in your photos, movement is your greatest ally. Soft, flowing fabrics catch the light beautifully, veils trail like whispers, and lace drapes like poetry in motion. Consider dresses with sheer sleeves, high necklines, dramatic trains, or intricate corsetry—anything that adds a sense of mystery and intrigue.
Texture is just as vital. Velvet, leather, lace, and intricate embroidery create layers of richness, adding depth to both your styling and your setting. Even within your décor, look for elements that invite touch—candlelit tables with dark linen, wrought iron candelabras, aged wood, and antique gold accents will transform your space into something truly spellbinding.
Above all, let your wedding feel like a world of its own. When every detail speaks to the essence of your story, the result is nothing short of unforgettable.
The Experience
Engagement Photos: A Prelude to Your Love Story
Your Vision, My Artistry
Before we even pick up a camera, I’ll ask you one thing: Do you have a vision for this shoot? Do you dream of something cinematic, a love story captured in soft candlelight or the golden hush of dusk? Or do you only have a vague idea—a whisper of inspiration waiting to take shape? Either way, we will craft something extraordinary.
If you have a vision, I’ll help bring it to life. If you don’t, I’ll guide you—choosing a location, weaving in thematic elements, and curating wardrobe choices that feel utterly you. The only thing set in stone? Timing. I only shoot engagement sessions in the early morning or just before sunset to ensure the most breathtaking, ethereal light.
A Reflection of You
The key to a striking engagement session? Authenticity. Your wedding will be grand, filled with beautiful formality and timeless elegance, but your engagement shoot should feel effortless—an intimate glimpse into your love, captured in a way that resonates with who you truly are. Whether that means a windswept cliffside, a candlelit library, or the quiet romance of a hidden garden, let’s create something that feels like you.
Have You Scheduled Your Shoot Yet?
If not, I can’t recommend it enough. Engagement sessions are about more than just photos—they allow us to get to know each other, so that by the time your wedding arrives, the camera feels like an old friend. They turn the nerves into confidence, the stiff poses into natural moments. And most of all? They’re just damn fun.
The Bridal Photoshoot: A Love Story Beyond the Wedding Day
What Are Bridal Photos?
Perhaps you’ve thought to yourself, “I wish I could wear my wedding dress more than just one day.” Or maybe the idea of stealing away for intimate, breathtaking portraits on your wedding day feels impossible amidst the whirlwind of celebrations. If so, let me introduce you to the Bridal Photoshoot—a session designed to capture your love story in an entirely new setting, without the pressure of a wedding timeline.
Imagine slipping into your wedding attire once more—whether days, weeks, or months after your wedding—choosing a location that speaks to your soul, and taking time to create something truly cinematic. A windswept cliff, a gothic cathedral, a candlelit château… wherever your vision leads, we’ll craft an experience that feels both timeless and wildly romantic.
A bridal session allows us to slow down, embrace the artistry of your love, and create imagery that will take your breath away.
How to Book Your Bridal Photoshoot
To schedule your session, simply reach out to me and let me know you’re interested. All the details are outlined in my pricing guide, and I’ll be with you every step of the way—from choosing the perfect location to styling the session to match your aesthetic.
You deserve to wear that dress more than once. You deserve a photography experience without the rush of a wedding day. You deserve art that tells your story, beyond just one fleeting moment.
Let’s create something unforgettable.
Common Questions From Past Couples
Looking for more?
Check out these other amazing weddings form 2024!
Shannen & Katie – Glencoe
Lawrie & Ally – Isle of Kerrera
Rowen & Ottavia – Kilmartin Castle
Looking to book me as your photographer in Scotland or abroad?
If you’re getting married in 2026 or 2027, I want to hear from you! Whether you’re in the UK or abroad, I’d love to capture your special day. I travel all over Scotland, the UK, Europe, and the United States. My passion for cinematic and fine art photography shines through in every celebration. So, reach out to secure your date, and let’s create beautiful memories together! Click here to inquire!
