Guests never (ever!) mean to ruin photos.

I get it - they’re excited, emotional, mildly confused by the timeline, sometimes a little tipsy, and doing their best.

But there are a few very common guest behaviours that can unintentionally make your wedding photos harder to capture, or stop key moments from being documented at all.

The good news?

With just a tiny bit of planning (and a sprinkle of gentle instruction), these things are super easy to avoid.

Here’s a friendly, totally non-judgemental list from a colourful South Wales wedding photographer who’s seen it all.

1. Stepping into the aisle during the ceremony

The problem:

‍Aunties, uncles, cousins, and That One Guest™ all want the perfect shot of you walking in.

So they lean.

Step out.

Or fully walk into the aisle at the crucial moment.

And suddenly your professional photos feature your guest’s phone.

How to avoid it:

• Ask your celebrant to announce an unplugged ceremony
• Add a cute sign
• Promise guests you’ll share the gallery after

Your aisle photos will thank you.

2. Holding phones up during important moments

The problem:

Phones create:

• glowing screens
• blocked faces
• distracting rectangles floating in the background

Those devices we feel lost without can be additional guests in photos of your ceremony kisses. First dances. Confetti walks.

How to avoid it:‍

Guests can be gently reminded: “Be present. Enjoy this moment. The photographer’s got you.”

3. Wandering off right before group photos

The problem:

Guests hear “group photos!” and suddenly:

• someone goes to the loo
• someone goes to the bar
• someone gets lost
• someone starts a full conversation about their dog

Meanwhile, the couple and the rest of the guests stands there waiting.

How to avoid it:

‍Have your officiant, planner, or best man announce:

“Please stay nearby for confetti and group photos!"

And do the group photos right after confetti before guests scatter.

4. Confetti chaos

The problem:

Guests get VERY excited about confetti.

Some guests grab enough confetti to start their own confetti shop, not leaving enough for others.

Other guests decide to drop confetti down the front of the bride's dress.

You might even have guests bringing their own non-biodegradable paper confetti to a venue that only allows dried flower confetti.

Result:
You get a confetti photo that looks inconsistent, like an attack or your faces are in dismay

How to avoid it:‍

Your photographer (me 👋) will space everyone out and explain:

“It’s OVER the couple, not AT the couple.”

Specify before the wedding that confetti will be supplied if there are strict rules in place at your chosen venue.

Buy so much confetti you think it's too much.

Have nominated people in your wedding party to police the confetti baskets to make sure there's plenty to go around.

You’re welcome.

5. Freezing to pose when they see the camera

The problem:

Most people aren't used to having their picture taken. Most people also don't know how to behave when they see a camera, so they freeze and smile at the camera.

This gives you an album of uncomfortable looking photos of your guests, which nobody wants (including the guests themselves).

How to avoid it:

Hire an experienced photographer (me again 👋) who specialises in working with people who are awkward in front of the camera and need help to relax.

6. Rushing the couple during confetti or exit walks

The problem:

If guests get too excited and start throwing confetti or light sparklers before the couple walks, it ruins the rhythm.

How to avoid it:‍

Your photographer will instruct and cue everyone so the moment feels natural (and looks amazing).

7. Blocking the photographer during key moments

The problem:

It’s never intentional.

But sometimes guests, celebrants and registrars can:

• step in front of the first look
• or during the vows
• do the same for the first kiss
• and the cake cutting

How to avoid it:‍

Ask your guests to be mindful of the photographer - you're paying for them to capture your day, and will need a clear view of you to capture moments that can't be recreated.

It helps more than you think.

8. Not listening when the photographer calls a group name

The problem:

Guests hear NOTHING during group photos. It’s scientifically proven (probably).

How to avoid it:‍

Delegate a helper – a best man, bridesmaid, or guest who knows the families speeds group photos up by 80%.

I repeat, nobody is trying to ruin anything

Wedding guests are excited. They love you. They want good pictures too.

So this isn’t about blaming - it’s about gently helping them understand how to support the flow of your day.

The more your guests know, the easier the day feels, and the better your photos look.

If you want relaxed, natural, colourful wedding photos without stress or awkwardness, a tiny bit of guidance for your guests goes a long way.

And don’t worry - as your photographer, I handle 99% of this myself. You just enjoy the day.

‍