Flat lay photos are carefully styled images that feature your wedding details arranged on a flat surface. They highlight rings, invitation suites, flowers, shoes, vow books, jewelry, perfume bottles, and heirlooms in a creative, artistic layout. As a Michigan wedding photographer, I’ve learned that these images do more than show off pretty details. They set the stage for your entire wedding gallery and give you a visual record of the pieces you worked so hard to choose.
Your gallery isn’t complete without them. Imagine looking back on your album years from now and being reminded of the perfume you wore, the stationery you sent, and the heirloom earrings passed down from your grandmother. Flat lays preserve those memories with the same level of importance as your first kiss at the altar.
Your Story Is in the Small Things
Every couple spends hours deciding on details that reflect their love story. The shade of ribbon on your bouquet, the wax seal on your invitations, the way your rings sparkle in the light, all of these are intentional choices. Flat lay photography ensures they’re documented and celebrated.
The Emotional Connection
Your wedding details aren’t random. They connect you to family, traditions, and personal style. Maybe your veil belonged to your mother. Maybe the cufflinks were a gift from your partner’s father. Maybe your vow books represent promises you’ll hold for the rest of your life. Without flat lay photos, those emotional details can fade from memory.
Visual Consistency in Your Gallery
Flat lays create a polished, editorial feel in your gallery. They balance the candid, documentary images of your day with something structured and styled. When you look through your album, the flat lay images act as visual anchors, tying everything together.
Stationery Suites
Invitations, RSVP cards, envelopes, and programs are often the first glimpse guests have of your wedding style. Including them in flat lay photos means they’ll live on after the paper is gone.
Rings and Jewelry
Engagement rings, wedding bands, necklaces, earrings, cufflinks, and watches deserve their spotlight. Styled with thoughtful props, they become works of art in your gallery.
Florals
Boutonnieres, bouquets, and loose blooms tie in your wedding colors and add texture. Florals elevate flat lay photos, giving them depth and natural beauty.
Heirlooms and Sentimental Pieces
Family handkerchiefs, lockets, rosaries, or handwritten letters bring a personal layer to the details. These pieces are irreplaceable and deserve professional documentation.
Wedding Accessories
Shoes, ties, hairpieces, perfume bottles, and vow books round out the story. They’re often chosen with care, and flat lay photos ensure they don’t fade into the background.
Backgrounds Matter
I bring styling mats in neutral tones and textures that make your details stand out. If your venue has a unique surface like vintage wood or patterned tile, I might use it to create something one of a kind.
Props and Tools
Ring boxes, silk ribbons, stamps, wax seals, or vintage trays can elevate your flat lay images. I bring a styling kit to every wedding, but I also encourage couples to include personal items for a custom touch.
Lighting and Angles
Flat lay photos require soft, natural light to avoid harsh shadows. I plan ahead to find the perfect window light or create balanced artificial light when needed. Angles also matter. Shooting directly overhead ensures symmetry and focus.
Flat lay photos happen early in the day, usually while hair and makeup are happening. This timing allows me to style and capture your details before the fast pace of the ceremony begins. Having everything gathered and ready when I arrive ensures a smooth process and leaves you free to relax with your wedding party.
Gather Your Details Ahead of Time: Place everything in a box or bag so I can easily access it when I arrive.
Include Extras: Bring two copies of your invitation suite so I can photograph both sides at once.
Don’t Forget the Rings: Have them with your details in the morning. They’ll be photographed before they’re handed off to the best man or officiant.
Trust the Process: Flat lay photography is part artistry and part storytelling. Giving me time to style them properly makes a big difference in the final gallery.
Years down the road, your flat lay images will be a tangible reminder of the thought and care you poured into your day. Just like portraits and ceremony moments, these images become heirlooms in their own right. They allow future generations to see not only who you were, but also the details that defined your wedding style.
I approach flat lay photography with the same care I bring to every moment of your wedding. My background in documentary and authentic wedding photography means your details are photographed with intention, creativity, and artistry. Whether you’re planning a Michigan vineyard wedding, a downtown Bay City celebration, or a destination event, your details deserve to shine.