5 Tips For Gorgeous Outdoor Wedding Photography

When you’re planning your big day, you’ve probably already pictured a few must-have shots. For most couples, outdoor wedding photographs are right at the top of that list. Whether you’re getting married in the Scottish countryside, along the coast, or at a cosy venue with a garden or courtyard, there’s something timeless about stepping outside for a few relaxed photos together.

These moments often end up being some of the most loved images from the whole day.

As a wedding photographer based in Ayrshire, I’ve worked with couples all over Scotland and the UK, in every kind of setting and season. From fresh spring mornings to wild winter afternoons, Scottish weather definitely likes to keep us guessing. But with a bit of planning, some flexibility, and the right mindset, outdoor photos can still be absolutely beautiful. If you’re hoping to include them in your day, here are five helpful tips to make sure your outdoor wedding photographs are everything you imagined.

Tips For Outdoor Wedding Photos

1. Get a good photographer

If you want stunning outdoor wedding photos, you need to have a good photographer. Someone who knows how to use natural light and has experience taking pictures in different settings will be able to capture your big day perfectly.

You can ask to see their wedding gallery for examples of previous outdoor wedding pictures they have taken, and don’t forget to check if they have an all-weather wedding photography plan – especially for those of you who will be having a Scottish wedding. We all know how unpredictable the weather in Scotland can be, no matter what the time of year is.

2. Pick the right location

The location of your wedding can make a big difference in the quality of your photos. If you’re getting married in an area with beautiful scenery, take advantage of it by having your ceremony or reception outdoors.

Look for either a unique location to have your whole wedding, or if there are unique outdoor venues near where you have gotten married.

Again, your wedding photographer will be able to help you with that as they tend to know the area around various wedding venues very well.

I know I love it when there are stunning Lochs, mountains or gardens near certain venues, as they will make stunning photo venues for at least the bride and groom, if not the whole wedding party

City venues can have some great architecture nearby that have beautiful landmarks to include in your outdoor wedding photos. Of course, then there is your actual wedding venue. I know wedding venues like Coulston House have stunning grounds and settings for gorgeous outdoor wedding photographs

The list is endless, so make sure you check with your photographer so they know what you are looking for and to see what advice they have!

3. Timing is everything

The time of day that you have your wedding will also affect the result of your photos. Think about the time of day you are liking to be taking your wedding photos, what impact will the sun have?

You will want your photographs to have good light, but then you can also get some stunning sunset images as well!

If you are getting married in the evening, then you will want to make sure there is still some light left for pictures.

The best time for portraits is often thought to be an hour or so before sunset as this is when the light is softer and more flattering. But that might not be practical depending on the timing of your wedding.

Your photographer will help you with planning what time will work out best for your wedding day schedule and getting those outdoor photographs that you desire!

4. Let nature do its thing

One of the best things about outdoor wedding photographs is how natural and unposed they can feel. When you’re outside, you don’t need to force anything. The breeze, the light, the movement, and even the weather can all add an atmosphere that’s hard to create indoors.
A gust of wind might lift your veil or dress at just the right moment. Light rain can create a really romantic mood, and the soft glow that follows often makes everything look calm and fresh.
That said, it’s still worth having a few backup ideas. A white umbrella, a cosy wrap or jacket, or a nearby sheltered spot can make all the difference if the weather changes. I’ve photographed weddings in all sorts of conditions, and some of the most loved images have come from those spontaneous, weather-filled moments.
A couple laughing in the wind or huddling close under a brolly can be just as beautiful as blue skies. If you’re willing to go with the flow, nature often gives us something even better than we imagined.

5. Have fun with it

Your wedding day is all about having fun, so make sure you take some time out to enjoy yourselves. This means taking some fun and relaxed photos with your wedding party or even just the two of you.

Get your photographer to capture some natural moments and interactions between you all, as these always make for the best pictures.

I hope these 5 tips for gorgeous outdoor wedding photos have helped but here are some bonus tips as well when it comes to your outdoor wedding photos!

Things to avoid when taking wedding photos outdoors

1. If Possible, Don’t Take Your Photos In The Midday Sun

Light makes a huge difference to your photos, especially when you’re outside. The midday sun might seem ideal, but it’s often too strong. It creates harsh shadows, makes people squint, and can be quite unforgiving in photographs. It’s not the most flattering time of day for couple portraits or those quiet moments you want to remember.

If you’re planning a summer wedding in Ayrshire or anywhere across the west coast of Scotland, it’s worth thinking about the timing of your ceremony and photos. Morning light is softer and more even, while late afternoon and early evening bring that warm, golden glow that works beautifully in outdoor wedding photographs.

I always chat with couples ahead of time to plan the best moments for photos, whether you’re getting married in a garden, by the coast, or at one of Ayrshire’s lovely country venues. A small tweak to your timeline can make a big difference to the look and feel of your pictures.

2. Avoid Being Backlit Unless Your Photographer Has The Experience

Being backlit means that the sun is behind you and shining towards your photographer. This can create some stunning images, but it can also be a bit tricky to get right.

Make sure you discuss this with your photographer beforehand so they know what to expect and how to avoid any unwanted shadows.

3. Be Mindful Of Your Surroundings

When you are taking your outdoor wedding photos, be mindful of your surroundings. This means considering the background and making sure there is nothing in the shot that you don’t want.

If people are walking by or cars are driving past, your photographer can crop them out of the shot. But it’s always best to be aware of your surroundings so that you can avoid any unwanted surprises in your photos.

So those are my main dos and don’ts when it comes to taking gorgeous outdoor wedding photos. More than anything, though, you need to make sure you and your photographer are on the same page about this so that there are no surprises on the day.

If you are looking for a photographer for your own Scottish wedding, then don’t hesitate to get in touch. I would love to chat with you and see if we are a good fit!