We live in a digital age, in a world where most people own a phone or device with a camera on, and for most of us, using social media sites has become a part of everyday life. We can take a photo and share it with the world in just a matter of seconds and it's easy to get caught up in capturing every moment on camera. As a photographer, I truly appreciate the value of documenting memories, but I've also witnessed how excessive device usage can detract from being fully present in the moment.
Your wedding day is a big occasion, filled with precious moments that deserve to be experienced with undivided attention and genuine emotion. While guests taking photos can be a natural part of celebrations, there are instances, especially during the ceremony, where it can pose challenges. I've encountered situations where guests have obstructed key moments - like the aisle walk for example - with their phones, cameras, and even tablets! But wouldn't it be wonderful to see smiling faces and happy tears in the background of your ceremony photos rather than a sea of devices? With this in mind, have you thought about having an unplugged ceremony?
What is an unplugged ceremony?
An 'unplugged ceremony' is where you kindly ask your guests to turn off their phones, put down their cameras, and refrain from taking any photos during the ceremony. The wedding ceremony is one of the most important parts of your day! You've carefully chosen your vows, selected the perfect readings, and invited your closest family and friends to witness this special moment. By encouraging guests to keep their phones and cameras away during the ceremony, you're inviting them to fully engage, listen, and be present in the moment—without the distraction of technology. Plus, turning off phones eliminates the risk of unexpected ringtones interrupting your vows! It's worth noting that some officiants may already discourage photography during the ceremony and will announce this to your guests before the ceremony begins.
Trust your photographer
You've invested in a professional wedding photographer who you trust to do a fabulous job, right? You and your guests should relax and enjoy the day, being reassured that your photographer is going take lots of beautiful photos and document all of the best moments from your ceremony anyway!
The 'no social media' rule
A 'no posting to social media' request is something else to consider. People can be so quick to share photos online, sometimes even before evening guests arrive, which can spoil surprises like outfits and décor. More and more couples are asking for images not to be shared online until at least the next day or until they've had a chance to share some photos themselves. Some couples even go as far as having a completely 'unplugged wedding' where guests are asked to keep their phones off and put away for the whole day!
If you would like an unplugged ceremony and would prefer a no social media rule, it's important to communicate your wishes to your guests. One of the best ways is to let the officiant know beforehand; they should be able to announce to your guests before the ceremony begins. Some couples also put a note on the order of service or display a sign kindly asking guests not to take photos. You can find things online, but here are some examples:
'There is a lady here taking photos... we asked her to come!
So please rest your cameras until the ceremony is done.'
'We really want to see your faces, not your devices... Please put away your phones and cameras until after the ceremony.'
'We invite you to be truly present during our ceremony. Please kindly turn off all phones and cameras and enjoy this moment with us.'
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