There’s something magical about a summer wedding. The long daylight hours, the warmth in the air, and the glow of golden hour all create the perfect setting for romance and celebration. As a seasoned wedding photographer who’s had the joy of capturing love stories all over Scotland, from castle gardens to coastal cliffs, I’ve learned a few things about making the most of a summer wedding.
Whether you’re planning your big day in Glasgow, the Highlands, or somewhere in between, here are my best tips to ensure your summer wedding is picture-perfect, quite literally.
Plan for the Heat (and the Unexpected)
Summer in Scotland is beautiful but notoriously unpredictable. One minute you’re basking in the sun, the next you’re searching for an umbrella. So, it’s wise to plan for both sun and showers.
- Sunscreen & Water: Keep your bridal party hydrated and protected. Sweat and sunburn don’t look great in photos!
- Backup Plan for Rain: Whether it’s a marquee, umbrellas, or an alternative indoor ceremony space, make sure you have a Plan B.
- Timing is Key: Midday sun can be harsh and unflattering. Consider a late afternoon ceremony to make the most of soft, golden light for your photos.
As a wedding photographer in Glasgow, I often advise couples to work closely with their planners and venue to map out shaded spots and weather-proof photography locations, they’re lifesavers on the day.
Make Your Timeline Light-Friendly
Summer weddings offer the biggest advantage of all: more daylight. Use it to your benefit!
- Golden Hour Magic: That dreamy time just before sunset is the holy grail for photographers. Schedule a brief session then, even 10–15 minutes can create some of your most stunning images.
- First Look Options: The long daylight gives you flexibility to do a first look before the ceremony. It’s a brilliant way to calm nerves and capture intimate moments without time pressure.
Working as a wedding photographer Scotland-wide, I often coordinate with couples to build timelines that not only suit their flow of the day but also maximise photo opportunities in the best natural light.
Dress for the Season (and Location)
Think light, breathable fabrics and practical elegance. While you might be dreaming of lace sleeves or a full ball gown, consider whether you’ll still feel comfortable during a warm summer afternoon.
- Brides: Chiffon, tulle and silk are breathable and photograph beautifully in the breeze.
- Grooms: Linen or lightweight wool suits in light colours like grey, taupe or even sage green are summer favourites.
- Footwear Matters: Especially for outdoor weddings, choose shoes that can handle grass or gravel. No one wants to see stilettos sinking mid-vow.
As a wedding photographer Glasgow has trained well in unpredictable weather, I’ve seen many clever wardrobe choices that strike the balance between comfort and style, and trust me, it shows in the photos.
Choose Your Colour Palette with the Season in Mind
Summer offers a wide colour spectrum, from soft pastels to vibrant blooms.
- Floral Arrangements: Work with seasonal flowers to ensure freshness and affordability. Think peonies, hydrangeas, sunflowers or sweet peas.
- Décor & Theme: Lean into the natural greens and blues of the landscape. Don’t fight the scenery, complement it.
- Bridal Party Attire: Coordinate outfits with your theme and the season’s mood. Lighter tones or even floral patterns can be a refreshing twist.
From a photography point of view, colours that work harmoniously with the natural backdrop enhance the overall aesthetic of your gallery. As a wedding photographer Scotland couples often trust, I’ve captured everything from boho woodland themes to elegant garden parties, each with their own seasonal flair.
Feed Your Guests (and Yourselves!) Smartly
Hot weather changes appetites and moods. Keeping guests comfortable with thoughtful food and drink choices is key.
- Lighter Menus: Think fresh salads, grilled vegetables, and seafood. Avoid heavy sauces and rich foods that might not sit well in heat.
- Hydration Stations: Infused water, lemonade, iced tea or even a “Pimp Your Prosecco” bar adds both charm and comfort.
- Late-Night Snacks: A mobile ice cream cart or wood-fired pizza van is always a crowd-pleaser and perfect for outdoor summer nights.
Great moments happen when guests are relaxed and enjoying themselves, and those are the best to capture.
Think Beyond Traditional Venues
Summer opens the door to outdoor and destination weddings across Scotland.
- Gardens, Estates, and Castles: Many Scottish venues offer outdoor ceremony spots that are breath taking in summer.
- Beach Weddings: Scotland’s coastline offers romantic and wild locations that look incredible in wedding galleries.
- Backyard Celebrations: Intimate weddings at home or on private property give you full creative control, and often a deeply personal touch.
From Edinburgh to the Isle of Skye, I’ve photographed weddings in every kind of terrain and light, and summer always brings its own magic to each.
Work With Your Photographer, Not Just Hire One
Here’s the thing, your wedding photographer is more than just someone who shows up with a camera. We’re your timeline managers, your problem-solvers, and sometimes your calm in the chaos.
- Pre-Wedding Consultation: Have a call or meeting to go over your vision, timeline, and must-have shots.
- Engagement Shoots: These are great for getting comfortable in front of the camera, and they often give us a feel for how best to photograph you as a couple.
- Trust Their Eye: A good wedding photographer in Scotland knows how to adapt to light, weather, and environment. Trust our guidance, it always pays off.
Final Thoughts: Summer Weddings Are Made for Storytelling
At the heart of every summer wedding is a story, your story. The laughter during speeches, the golden light kissing your shoulders during the first dance, and the quiet glances exchanged when no one’s watching, these are the moments that matter.
As someone who’s been lucky enough to capture many of these memories as a wedding photographer couples in Scotland have trusted, I can tell you: summer weddings may come with their quirks, but they also come with unmatched beauty and emotion.
So take the sun in your stride, plan with intention, and when in doubt, lean on your team. And if you’re still on the hunt for someone to tell your story through the lens, you might want to get in touch with me. The right photographer doesn’t just document your day, they bring it to life.
Here’s to sun-soaked kisses, laughter under the stars, and timeless wedding photos you’ll love forever. Get in touch today!
