Flat lay photography is a fantastic way to showcase wedding day details like invitations, florals, and jewelry. A well-composed flat lay tells the story of a wedding through these small but important elements. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to elevate your photography skills, these tips will help you create beautifully balanced and eye-catching flat lays.

Take Flat Lay Photos in the Vertical Orientation

Shooting flat lays in a vertical orientation is ideal for creating a dramatic, elongated, luxury feel. This works especially well when you want a more focused and streamlined composition, making it easier to guide the viewer’s eye through the details of the layout. Shooting in a portrait orientation is also ideal for showing off longer or taller items like wedding invitations, menus, or ribbon arrangements. It offers a balanced look, preventing elements from feeling too spread out or lost in the frame.

In portrait orientation, you can also create a sense of depth and storytelling by stacking items from top to bottom, making the image feel more dynamic and intentional. Additionally, this orientation is highly favored for social media platforms, where vertical images take up more screen space and tend to perform better in terms of engagement — allowing you to show off your work to the best of its ability! Publications love to see these vertical images.

Balance and Layer Flat Lay Photography for Visual Interest

When arranging your flat lay, pay close attention to your balance. This means making sure the elements in your image aren’t all concentrated in one area. 

To create a well-balanced flat lay, think about how you can layer different items to create depth and interest. Start with larger, foundational elements such as invitation suites or fabric pieces, and then layer smaller details like jewelry or boutonnieres on top. Pay attention to spacing, and make sure the items aren’t too crowded. Leaving negative space between objects allows them to breathe and adds a sense of elegance to the composition.

This will help keep the photo visually appealing and ensures that no one section of the image feels too heavy.

Balance Colors in Your Flat Lay Photography

Color balance is crucial for creating cohesive flat lays. To achieve this look, work with the wedding’s color palette and spread those colors evenly throughout your composition. If you’re using bolder shades, like deep reds or navy blues, offset them with neutral or softer tones to prevent any one color from dominating the image. 

For example, if the wedding color scheme includes rich burgundy, balance it by placing burgundy flowers in one corner and scattering soft white or blush petals throughout the flat lay. This keeps the colors harmonious and ensures that each element complements the others.

Use Elements That are Part of the Wedding Design

For flat lay photography that really tells a story, incorporate elements from the wedding design itself. Use items like the wedding invitation, ribbons from the bouquet, or even a small piece of lace from the bride’s dress. These personalized details create a connection between the flat lay and the wedding day, making the photos feel more meaningful.

Adding florals that match the bouquets or using similar textures from the wedding decor also enhances the overall look. This strategy keeps the flat lay consistent with the theme and makes it easier for the couple to relive their day through the images. 

Practice Flat Lay Setups at Home

The best way to improve your flat lay photography skills is to practice. Don’t wait until a wedding day to experiment with new techniques — set up different flat lays at home using everyday items like invitations, jewelry, or flowers. Experiment with balancing elements vertically, incorporating colors, and using design pieces that tell a story.

Practicing at home allows you to develop a process and get comfortable with different layouts. On the wedding day, you’ll be able to set up your flat lays more quickly and confidently, ensuring you capture stunning images without feeling rushed.

Showcase With and Without Extra Props 

When capturing flat lays, create variety by taking photos with and without extra props. Styled flat lays that feature ribbons, trays, or additional florals can make for striking images, but it’s also important to showcase a simpler version with just the core elements, like invitations or jewelry. 

Start by styling your flat lay with all the extra elements — such as flowers, ribbons, or fabric pieces — to create a complete scene. Then, strip away the extra props and take a few minimalist shots that focus solely on the key details like the invitation suite or rings. 

By offering both styled and minimalist versions, you give your clients a range of photos to enjoy in their gallery. This allows them to choose what best suits their taste, and it also demonstrates your ability to capture details in multiple ways.

Leave Shoes for Documentary Images or Feature Them Alone 

While shoes are a popular detail to photograph, they don’t always fit well within a flat lay. Because they’re larger and bulkier, they can throw off the vertical balance and make the composition feel crowded. Instead of forcing them into the flat lay, save the shoes for documentary-style images or feature them on their own. 

Photographing the shoes in a candid moment, like when the bride is getting ready, or showcasing them on a clean, simple background, allows you to focus on their beauty without overwhelming your flat lay setup.

Mastering flat lay photography requires attention to detail, balance, and a bit of creativity. By focusing on vertical and color balance, incorporating elements from the wedding design, and practicing your setups at home, you’ll be able to capture stunning flat lay photography that tells the story of a couple’s big day. And don’t forget — whether you choose to use extra props or showcase the details on their own, make sure every element works together to create a visually striking image. 

To take your wedding photography to the next level and ensure that every detail is captured, don’t miss out on our Wedding Day Shot List guide. This comprehensive resource will help you stay organized and efficient throughout the day. Plus, our Wedding Day Timeline Templates are perfect for creating a stress-free schedule that allows you to capture every special moment seamlessly. Check them out to elevate your portfolio and streamline your process!