Picture this: You’re standing at the altar, holding hands with your partner, lost in the magic of the moment. It’s emotional, intimate, and perfect. But when you get your wedding photos back, instead of seeing the happy, tear-filled faces of your loved ones, you see a sea of smartphones—or worse, Aunt May stepping into the aisle to get her perfect shot. Yikes.

As your photographer, I want you to have the best, most meaningful photos possible. An unplugged ceremony is one of the easiest ways to make sure that happens.

Why an Unplugged Ceremony is a Game Changer

An unplugged ceremony simply means asking guests to put away their phones and cameras so they can be present.  Here’s why it’s worth considering:

Authentic, Emotion-Filled Photos – Your guests will actually experience it.  I'm there to capture every beautiful moment. When guests are present instead of hiding behind screens, your photos will be filled with genuine reactions and heartfelt expressions.

No awkward interruptions – The last thing you want is someone’s phone ringing mid-vows or a guest stepping into the aisle, accidentally blocking the shot of your big moment.

Respecting Your Vendors – You have invested in a professional to document your day. Guests with phones can block important shots, use flash at the wrong time, or even affect lighting in key moments.

How to Gently (but Firmly) Set the No-Phone Expectation

Worried about how to tell guests—especially the well-meaning ones like Aunt May—to put their phones away? Here’s how you can make it clear (without hurting any feelings):

1. Have Your Officiant Make an Announcement

A friendly reminder before the ceremony works wonders. Something like:

“The couple asks that you put your phones away and be fully present with them. Don’t worry—their professional photographer has got it covered, and they can’t wait to share the photos with you!”

2. Mention It Early and Often

Let guests know well before the big day by including it on your invitations and wedding website. A simple note like:

“We’d love for you to be fully present during our ceremony. Please keep your phones tucked away and enjoy the moment with us!”

3. Use a Cute Sign

Place a stylish sign at the entrance of your ceremony that makes guests smile while reinforcing the rule:

“Welcome to our unplugged ceremony! Please put away your phones and enjoy this moment with us. Don’t worry, we’ve got a pro capturing everything!”

4. Get Your Wedding Party on Board

Ask your wedding party (or a bold family member) to casually remind any guests who try to sneak a pic. A little friendly peer pressure never hurts!

A Pro Tip for the Couple

It’s your day, and it’s okay to set boundaries! If you’re concerned about guests missing the memo, consider adding a post-ceremony “photo moment.” Right after you walk back down the aisle, pause at the end and encourage guests to take a group shot of you before putting their phones away for the rest of the event. That way, they feel included without interfering with your professional photos.

And sometimes, catching a sweet moment of your grandparents taking a photo of you can make for a really special memory. If I see a moment like that, you better believe I’m snapping a picture of it too! 

Let’s Keep the Focus Where It Belongs

At the end of the day, your wedding should be about love, laughter, and the people who mean the most to you—not a sea of glowing screens. An unplugged ceremony ensures that everyone is truly there with you, soaking in every moment. And trust me, your wedding photos will be so much better for it.

Not sure how to navigate this with your guests? I’d love to help! Let’s chat about how we can make sure your ceremony is beautifully captured, distraction-free.