There’s something truly magical about outdoor weddings - the fresh air, the open skies, and the way natural light can make everything look like a scene straight out of a fairy-tale. But as dreamy as outdoor wedding photography can be, it comes with its own set of challenges - think harsh sunlight, unpredictable weather, and the occasional photobombing seagull (welcome to Cardiff!).
So, if you’re planning to say “I do” surrounded by nature, here are some expert tips to ensure your outdoor wedding photos turn out absolutely stunning.
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Timing Is Everything - Embrace Golden Hour
Let’s start with a pro tip - natural light is all about timing. The best outdoor wedding photos are often captured during the elusive golden hour - the hour after sunrise or before sunset when the sun casts a soft, warm glow. This light is super flattering, making skin tones look dreamy and reducing harsh shadows.
Now, I'll be honest, I appreciate that being severed a strong golden hour on your wedding day would be a bonus - but the same theory still stands in that an hour or so before sunset is when the natural light is most likely to be the prime time for outdoor portraits.
Golden Hour in Cardiff
In South Wales, golden hour can shift depending on the season, so chat with your photographer to time your couple portraits just right. A sunset shoot overlooking Cardiff Bay or in the Brecon Beacons? Yes, please!
Have a Plan for Harsh Midday Sun
Not all wedding schedules can revolve around golden hour, and that’s okay! If you’re getting married in the middle of the day, when the sun is at its highest and harshest, there are ways to work around it.
Top Tips for Dealing with Harsh Sunlight
Seek Shade: Trees, pergolas, or even a strategically held parasol can soften harsh shadows.
Backlighting: Position the sun behind you for a soft, halo-like effect that adds depth and warmth to your photos.
Reflectors: A good photographer will have reflectors handy to bounce light and soften shadows on your face.
Cloudy Skies? No Problem!
In South Wales, clouds are pretty much a given - certainly more so than a gorgeous golden hour sunset, I hear you! But don’t panic.. cloudy skies act like a giant softbox, diffusing light evenly and preventing squinting (or shiny foreheads).
Some of the most romantic wedding photos feature soft, diffused light and a dramatic sky - oh, and a newlywed couple who are open to fun ideas!
Pro Tip: If there’s a chance of rain, clear umbrellas can look super cute in photos - plus, they keep the frizz at bay!
Choose Locations with Variety
When planning outdoor wedding photos, think about variety in your backdrops. A mix of greenery, water, open fields, and charming architecture (hello, Cardiff Castle!) adds interest and allows for a wider range of shots.
Perfect Cardiff Spots for Outdoor Photos
Roath Park: Lakeside views and lush greenery.
Bute Park: Historic stone walls and tree-lined paths.
Castell Coch: Fairytale vibes with woodland surroundings.
Cardiff Bay: A marina for a sprinkle of luxury.
Ogmore-by-Sea: Nearby beach and coastline scenes.
Caerphilly Mountain: Nearby mountain scenes.
Keep the Dress (and Shoes!) in Mind
Outdoor weddings can be rough on white dresses and delicate shoes. Consider a second pair of comfy flats for moving between photo spots, and have a cloth or blanket handy to protect your dress during seated shots.
Pro Tip: A dress with a slightly shorter train or a bustle can save you from dragging half of the forest floor down the aisle.
Harness the Power of Backlighting
Backlighting is a technique where the sun is positioned behind you, creating a soft, glowing outline that looks straight out of a romance novel cover. It works beautifully during golden hour, especially if your veil catches the light just right.
How to Nail It
Keep a bit of distance between you and your background for that halo effect.
A light breeze catching your veil or dress adds a sense of movement and drama.
Factor in Wind (and Make It Work for You!)
A bit of wind can actually enhance outdoor photos by adding life and rawness - think veils blowing in the breeze and candid moments with natural movement. But too much wind can turn things into a bit of a nightmare.
Wind Management Tips
Veil Weights: These little clips can prevent your veil from taking off mid-vows.
Hair Prep: Choose a hairstyle that won’t turn into a bird’s nest at the first gust. Loose waves or half-up styles with plenty of pins are a safe bet.
Natural Light Isn’t Just for Daytime
Outdoor lighting can look incredible even after the sun goes down. Think fairy lights, lanterns, and sparklers - they add warmth and a touch of magic to evening photos.
Must-Have Shots
Your first dance under twinkling lights.
A sparkler exit with your guests.
Close-up shots with candlelight for a romantic glow.
Capture the Landscape (And Make It Personal!)
If you’ve chosen an outdoor wedding, chances are the location is meaningful to you or just downright stunning (or both!) - so make it part of the story! Wide-angle shots capturing the landscape or your venue’s surroundings add context and a sense of place to your wedding album.
Location Ideas Within Reach of Cardiff
Penarth Pier: Classic seaside charm with gorgeous sunset views.
Brecon Beacons: For adventurous couples, a short hike can lead to breath-taking mountain shots.
Southerndown Beach: Dramatic cliffs and waves for those moody, windswept photos.
Relax and Be in the Moment
This might sound obvious, but it’s easy to forget: the best photos are the ones where you’re genuinely having fun. Laugh, steal kisses, and take a moment to soak it all in. Your photographer will capture those candid, heartfelt moments that truly tell your love story.
Pro Tip: If you’re feeling camera-shy, focus on each other rather than the camera. Walk, chat, and just be yourselves. Your photographer will handle the rest!
Final Thoughts - Nailing Your Outdoor Wedding Photos
Outdoor wedding photography is all about embracing natural light and the beauty of your surroundings - clouds, wind, direct sunlight, and whatever else nature has in store for you.
By planning ahead, trusting your photographer, and staying relaxed, you can ensure your wedding photos turn out breathtakingly beautiful.
So whether you’re tying the knot in a flower-filled garden or on a beach overlooking the Bristol Channel, these tips will help you capture the day just as beautifully as you imagine it.
