Want gorgeous flat lay photos on your wedding day? Here’s everything you need to know about wedding detail photography—from must-have items to styling tips for perfect shots.

Before the vows are exchanged and the first dance begins, your photographer will likely start the day by capturing your wedding details—those small but meaningful items that reflect your personal style. One of the most popular ways to do this is through flat lay photography, where items are carefully styled and photographed from above.

These elegant photos are often used to begin your wedding album and set the tone for the story of your day. But to make the most of them, you’ll want to be prepared.

In this post, we’ll break down:

What wedding detail photography is
Flat lay essentials for brides and grooms
How to prep your items ahead of time

What Is Wedding Detail Photography?

Wedding detail photography focuses on the small, personal elements of your big day—everything from your rings to your invitations, perfume, and more.

These detail shots:

Tell the story of your day
Highlight the unique touches you’ve chosen
Add depth and elegance to your final gallery

💍 Bride's Flat Lay Must-Haves

PAPER GOODS

Invitation suite (invite, RSVP, envelope)
Save the date
Menu or program cards

Jewelry & Accessories

Engagement ring + wedding bands
Earrings, necklace, bracelet
Hairpiece or veil
Shoes

Beauty & Fashion

Perfume bottle
Lipstick (especially if it’s your wedding signature color)
Garter
Dress hanger (get a personalized one if you want!)

Personal Touches

Vow books
Handwritten notes or letters
Family heirlooms (like grandma’s brooch or a special coin)
Monogrammed items

Textiles & Styling Aids (optional but helpful)

Ribbon or silk styling fabric
Ring box (velvet or custom monogrammed)
Florals from your florist (ask for loose stems or petals)

🤵 Groom’s Detail Essentials

Let’s not forget the groom!

Watch
Cufflinks
Tie or bowtie
Boutonnière
Cologne
Shoes
Socks (if custom or meaningful)
Belt or suspenders
Vows or letter to the bride
Groom’s ring
Invitation suite (yes, include one here too!)

🧳 How to Prepare Your Detail Items

Pack a “Detail Bag” in Advance

Put all the items you want photographed in one bag or box. Hand it to your photographer (or planner) when they arrive so they can get started right away.

Label Fragile or Important Items

Especially heirlooms—this helps the photographer treat them with extra care.

Communicate With Your Photographer

If there are special items you want included (or excluded), let them know in advance.

Flat lay and wedding detail photography may seem like small parts of the day—but they’re anything but insignificant. These images are timeless, emotional, and give life to the tiny elements you’ve thoughtfully chosen to represent your love story.

So don’t overlook the details. Prepare them ahead of time, trust your photographer’s creative eye, and enjoy seeing your love story unfold—one beautiful flat lay at a time.

Wedding day Details