DIY Wedding tips from a Sacramento Wedding Photographer
We all know that a good photographer can make any setting look good, but, there is a limit to how good that is when things get too tacky or look too DIY. As a wedding and portrait photographer, I’ve worked in everything from luxury ballrooms to backyard setups, and here’s the truth: photos capture the essence of your day, but they also capture everything else around you. If the backdrop feels cluttered, overly themed, or distracts from the couple, no amount of editing magic can truly fix it.
Why Décor Matters as Much as Photography
When you invest in professional photography, you’re paying for someone who knows how to find the best angles, light, and moments. But if your wedding arch is leaning, the linens clash, or the backdrop feels like it belongs in a high school prom, it’s going to show. The eye naturally picks up on these little details in photos—sometimes more than in real life.
Finding the Balance Between Personal & Polished
Personal touches are beautiful and meaningful. Maybe it’s a handmade sign, a DIY bouquet, or a family heirloom woven into the décor. But the key is balance. A few personal details elevate your photos and make them unique. Too many, or poorly executed, can distract from the actual story: you and your partner.
Tip #1: If you’re going DIY, focus on one or two standout pieces instead of trying to do everything yourself.
Tip #2: Consider renting professional décor for the bigger items—arches, draping, lighting. This ensures a polished foundation while leaving room for your personal flair.
Tip #3: Always view décor through the lens of photography. Ask yourself: “Will this age well in photos?”
How Photographers Help Elevate Any Setting
A professional photographer doesn’t just click a button. We move chairs, adjust centerpieces, and angle you toward the best light. I’ve helped couples hide imperfections (like a less-than-perfect wall or a windy outdoor setup) by carefully choosing shooting locations. But if everything in the background is competing for attention, even the most skilled photographer can’t fully shift the focus back to you.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, you don’t need a Pinterest-perfect wedding for your photos to be stunning—you just need thoughtful, intentional choices. Invest where it matters, let your photographer handle the rest, and trust that the best images will be the ones that feel authentic, not overdone.
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