The Ultimate Guide to Wedding Flat Lay Details: What to Include in Your Details Box
As a wedding photographer, one of the highlights of capturing a couple's big day is photographing the flat lay details. These curated shots showcase the essence of your wedding day—the personal touches, thoughtful details, and sentimental pieces that tell your unique story. To ensure your flat lay is as stunning as your love story, here’s a guide to what you should include in your details box on the wedding day.
1. The Rings
Your wedding rings are the cornerstone of your love story. Include:
Engagement ring
Wedding bands (both partners’)
Ring box (preferably a decorative one)
Pro Tip: A velvet or acrylic ring box adds a touch of elegance and photographs beautifully.
2. Stationery Suite
Your wedding invitation suite sets the tone for the day. Include:
Invitations
RSVP cards
Save-the-date cards
Envelopes (bonus points for calligraphy!)
Pro Tip: Include an extra set specifically for your photographer, and don’t forget to include stamps and wax seals.
3. Accessories
Personal accessories make the flat lay pop. Consider including:
Earrings, necklaces, bracelets, cufflinks
Hairpins, combs, or tiaras
Bow ties, ties, or pocket squares
Watches
Pro Tip: Arrange these pieces on a textured surface or fabric swatch for a luxe vibe.
4. Shoes
Your wedding shoes are more than just footwear—they’re part of your overall look. Include:
Both partners’ shoes
Additional embellishments like shoe clips or laces
Pro Tip: Clean the soles before photographing, especially for outdoor weddings.
5. Floral Elements
Florals add texture, color, and life to your flat lay. Include:
Loose blooms from your bouquet
Greenery or petals
Boutonnieres
Pro Tip: Ask your florist for extra stems specifically for detail shots.
6. Sentimental Items
Add a personal touch by including:
Heirloom jewelry
A handwritten note or vows
Family photos or mementos
Pro Tip: Items with a story behind them make for meaningful photographs.
7. Perfume or Cologne
The scent you wear on your wedding day will always remind you of this special moment. Include:
Your wedding-day fragrance bottle
Pro Tip: Choose a bottle with a unique shape or elegant design.
8. Fabric Elements
Background fabrics can elevate your flat lay. Include:
Silk ribbons
Velvet swatches
Lace from your dress or veil
Pro Tip: These fabrics help tie all the elements together seamlessly.
9. Extras
For an extra special touch, consider including:
Wedding favors
Miniature props like vintage keys or clocks
Custom wax seals or calligraphy name cards
Pro Tip: Play with layering and negative space to create depth and interest.
A Few Tips for Success:
Pack Ahead: Have everything ready in a dedicated box so your photographer doesn’t have to hunt for items.
Coordinate with Vendors: Let your florist, stationer, and planner know you’ll need extra pieces for detail shots.
Timing is Key: Plan for about 30 minutes of dedicated flat lay photography.
With a well-prepared details box, your photographer can create stunning flat lays that you’ll treasure forever. These photos beautifully encapsulate the small details that made your day uniquely yours.
