As a wedding photographer, I have had the opportunity to photograph many different types of weddings. One trend that I have noticed in recent years is the rise of unplugged weddings.

An unplugged wedding is a ceremony where guests are asked to refrain from using their electronic devices, such as cell phones, cameras, and tablets, during the ceremony. The idea behind an unplugged wedding is to create an environment where guests can fully engage in the ceremony and be present in the moment, rather than being distracted by their devices.

From my perspective as a wedding photographer, I believe that unplugged weddings have many benefits. Here are the top five reasons why I think every couple should consider having an unplugged wedding:

1. Increased focus on the ceremony:

When guests are not distracted by their devices, they are more likely to be fully present and engaged in the ceremony. This makes for a more meaningful and enjoyable experience for everyone involved, and it also results in better photographs.

2. Better photos and videos:

Without guests getting in the way of their devices, I am able to capture the best possible shots of the ceremony. Additionally, an unplugged wedding ensures that professional photographers and videographers will have a clear view of the ceremony, allowing them to capture all the special moments.

3. Reduced distractions for the couple:

The couple getting married should be the center of attention during their ceremony, not the guests’ devices. An unplugged wedding reduces distractions and allows the couple to fully enjoy their special day, which reflects on the photos.

4. More meaningful memories:

With guests fully present in the moment, they will be more likely to create meaningful memories that will last a lifetime. Additionally, the couple will be able to look back on their wedding day with fond memories, knowing that their guests were fully engaged in the ceremony and captured in the photos.

5. A more intimate experience:

An unplugged wedding creates a more intimate atmosphere, as guests are able to fully engage with the ceremony without distractions. This can make the ceremony feel more personal and special for everyone involved, and it also makes the photos more intimate and candid.

Another benefit of choosing a celebrant is that they can help you to create a ceremony that is inclusive and welcoming to all of your guests. This means that you can choose a celebrant who is experienced in working with different cultures and religions, and who can help you to create a ceremony that is inclusive of all of your guests.

Letting your guests know about your unplugged wedding ceremony doesn’t have to be a big deal. There are a couple of ways to make it fun and easy.

One way is to add a little note in their wedding invitations. For example, you can write something like “Thanks for coming! We have one request, please keep our ceremony phone-free. But don’t worry, once the ceremony is over, feel free to snap away at the reception.” This way, your guests will know what to expect before they even get to the venue.

Another way is to make a cool sign to place at the entrance of the ceremony venue. This sign can be as simple or as fancy as you want, as long as it clearly says that you are having an unplugged ceremony. This can be a fun way to let your guests know and also make a great photo opportunity.

The most important thing is to let your guests know your request in a friendly and clear way. They will appreciate the reminder and will know what to expect when they get to the ceremony.

While an unplugged ceremony can have several benefits, it is important to consider the potential drawbacks as well. One such drawback is that some guests may be disappointed that they are unable to share the photos and videos they have taken with friends and family on social media platforms. Your uncle Bob can be upset 🙂

Additionally, it is not uncommon for some guests to refuse to honor the couple’s wishes for an unplugged ceremony. Even though they were well aware of the couple’s desire for an unplugged ceremony, some guests may proceed to take photographs and videos on their electronic devices throughout the ceremony. This can be quite disappointing for the couple, and may even cause them distress.

Furthermore, it may also lead to strained relationships between the couple and the guests who chose to ignore their request, particularly if the couple had explicitly requested an unplugged ceremony.

Overall, as a wedding photographer, I strongly recommend unplugged weddings for couples. Not only it creates a better experience for the couple and the guests but it also results in better photographs that will last a lifetime. I am sure that every wedding photographer and videographer would say the same thing. However, if you are not having an unplugged wedding, I will, of course, do everything I can to work around those distractions and do the best job possible.