3 Tips to get the best out of your wedding photos
Weddings are all about creating memories, and what better way to relive those moments than through stunning wedding photos? Whether it’s the confetti drop, the grand entrance into the marquee, or the magical sunset views over the Yorkshire countryside, Priory Cottages in Wetherby offers some of the most picturesque settings for your wedding day. We are fortunate to work with amazing wedding photographers, and one of our recommendations, award-winning photographer Joe Dodsworth, has shared his expert tips below to help you get the most out of your wedding photos!
1. Allow Time for Wedding Photos
“One of the best ways to ensure you get high-quality wedding photos is by carving out specific time for them. While I will always work to capture your day in a relaxed and unobtrusive way, taking a little time to plan for key moments—like family photos, couple portraits, and bridal party shots—can really elevate your wedding album.
Setting aside 10-20 minutes for portraits after you’re ready, a few minutes during the drinks reception for family photos, and even some time in the evening for sunset shots can make a huge difference in the final outcome of your wedding photos.
At Priory Cottages, one of the most stunning locations for wedding photos is the lane behind the venue, where the sunset casts a beautiful glow over the fields. Be sure to allocate time in your wedding timeline to take full advantage of this gorgeous backdrop!”
2. Create a List of Family Photos
“Capturing family moments on your wedding day is important, but you don’t want the process to disrupt the flow of the celebration. To keep things organised and efficient, it’s a good idea to create a list of family and friends you want to include in formal photos.
Rather than simply listing relationships (e.g., “aunt” or “uncle”), make sure you include full names to avoid confusion on the day. Each family photo typically takes 1-2 minutes, so having this list ready will help you estimate how much time you need.
To streamline the process, assign a family member or a close friend who knows most of the guests to help organise everyone for the photos. This will keep the family photo session quick and enjoyable, so you can get back to your celebration.”
3. Schedule a Pre-Wedding Call or Meeting
“Choosing a photographer whose style matches your vision is essential for capturing the perfect wedding photos. However, it’s equally important to connect with your photographer personally. I recommend having a pre-wedding discovery call or meeting. This allows you to discuss your expectations and ensures the photographer understands your goals for the big day.
When you and your photographer are on the same page, you’ll not only feel more comfortable but also achieve the best results. Since your photographer will be with you for much of the day, it’s important that they fit in well with your wedding day vibe.”
Joe’s Favorite Things About Wedding Photography at Priory Cottages
We also asked Joe what he loves most about photographing weddings at Priory Cottages:
"There are many things I enjoy about weddings at Priory Cottages. The courtyard is perfect for a drinks reception, creating a relaxed atmosphere that leads to wonderful candid shots. The surrounding Yorkshire countryside offers diverse backdrops throughout the year—whether it’s the golden cornfields before harvest or the lambing season with adorable sheep, there’s always something special to capture.
But above all, it’s the incredible team at Priory Cottages that makes the day extra special. They’re always friendly and go above and beyond to take care of the couple and all the suppliers. They make sure everything runs smoothly, and nothing is ever too much trouble."
Images: Joe Dodsworth Photography
