🍂 15 Must-Know Fall Wedding Tips from Your Photographer (Ohio Edition)
Fall weddings are pure magic (they’re my favorite) — the crisp air, vibrant leaves, and cozy vibes create the perfect backdrop for your big day. But as dreamy as the season is, it also comes with a few curveballs (like early sunsets and unpredictable weather—welcome to Ohio).
As your photographer, I’ve seen firsthand what works and what can catch couples off guard. So I’ve put together my top 15 tips to help you navigate your fall wedding with ease, stay ahead of the elements, and get the absolute best photos possible.
Let’s dive in — and get you ready to make the most of your Fall “I do”!
1. Plan for Early Sunset
In Ohio, sunset hits around 6:30–7:00 PM in early fall and even earlier by late October. Schedule portraits earlier in the day to catch that beautiful golden hour glow.
2. Golden Hour Is Your Best Friend
Aim for 45–60 minutes before sunset for dreamy, warm-toned photos. Trust your photographer’s timeline suggestions — we know when the light is best!
3. Have a Backup Weather Plan
Rain and chillier temps are common. Be emotionally and logistically prepared with tents, umbrellas, and cozy indoor options for ceremonies or portraits. Some will embrace the wild Ohio weather, or often time you may have to run for cover after your ceremony
4. Keep an Emergency Blanket or Shawl
Even if your dress is sleeveless, the weather can drop quickly. A stylish shawl or blanket wrap looks great in photos and keeps you warm between shots.
5. Pick a Fall Color Palette That Pops
Deep burgundy, burnt orange, forest green, mustard, and rust contrast beautifully with Ohio’s autumn leaves — and photograph like a dream.
6. Embrace Seasonal Florals
Incorporate dahlias, mums, eucalyptus, pampas grass, and berries for full, textured bouquets with gorgeous fall tones.
7. Fall Foliage Peaks Mid-October
If you're hoping for peak color, aim for weddings between October 10–20, depending on your exact Ohio location (it varies slightly north to south).
8. Include Clear Umbrellas Just in Case
They’re practical and beautiful in photos — and they don’t block light like solid-colored ones.
9. Add Warm, Moody Lighting
Candles, lanterns, and string lights add romantic ambiance, especially as it gets darker earlier. Bonus: they photograph beautifully!
10. Schedule Hair/Makeup Early
Earlier sunset = earlier ceremony/photos. Work backward from your golden hour photo goals to plan your glam time.
11. Mind the Mud (Seriously!)
Fall can be damp. Bring bridal boots or designated photo shoes for walking between photo locations.
12. Layer Up the Bridal Party
Coordinated shawls, jackets, or flannels for your bridesmaids look adorable and keep everyone comfortable during outdoor portraits.
13. Cozy Up Your Reception Space
Think cider bars, s’mores stations, fire pits, and warm blankets on chairs — these little details feel seasonal and make for fun photo ops.
14. Opt for a Long Veil or Cape
Fall breezes = amazing veil shots. Bonus: they keep you a little warmer, too.
15. Consider a Pre-Ceremony First Look
With earlier sunsets and chillier evenings, first looks allow more time for portraits during the warmest and brightest part of the day.
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