Guest Post by Ace Photography: Expert Tips from a Wedding Photographer

I've invited my lovely friend Natalia from Ace Photography to share her expert insights on wedding day photography. As a professional wedding photographer, she knows exactly how to capture those once-in-a-lifetime moments, and her tips are gold for any couple planning their big day.

Hi, I’m Natalie — a Southern Highlands-based photographer and the face behind Ace Photography. I’ve been capturing love stories, milestones, and real connection since 2018, and what I’ve learned is this: the best photos aren’t just about poses or perfect weather. They come from moments when you feel confident, relaxed, and truly present. That’s where great planning (and a few tried-and-true makeup tips) can make all the difference.

Photography Tips to Make the Most of Your Wedding Day:

• Buffer your timeline. Give yourself pockets of calm between events — not just for the photos, but to actually breathe and enjoy the day.

• Have your details ready. Rings, invites, perfume, heirlooms — these personal touches tell your story beautifully in flat-lays.

• Golden hour is everything. Schedule time just before sunset for couple portraits — the light is magical and soft.

• Nominate a photo wrangler. One organised friend who can help gather family for group shots keeps things moving smoothly.

• Let go and enjoy. Honestly, the best photos come when you’re not overthinking it. Let yourself feel it all — it shows. At Ace Photography, I believe that photography isn’t just about snapping images — it’s about telling your story in a way that feels real and effortless. That’s why I encourage all of my couples to book an engagement session before the big day. Here’s why it can be a game-changer:

  
  

  1. It builds trust.

  Spending time with your photographer before your wedding allows us to connect beyond the booking form. You get to see how I work, how I guide you, and how I bring out natural moments without making you feel stiff or staged. When the wedding day arrives, it feels like working with a friend — not a stranger holding a camera.

  
  

  2. You get comfortable in front of the lens.

  Most people feel nervous or unsure during the first 10–15 minutes of a session. That’s totally normal. An engagement shoot gives you space to ease into it, find your rhythm as a couple, and discover what feels most “you.” You’ll walk away knowing what to expect on the wedding day, and that confidence shows in your photos.

  
  

  3. You’ll have beautiful memories of this season.

  Your engagement is its own unique chapter. It’s full of anticipation, excitement, and quiet moments of planning your forever. An engagement session captures that raw emotion — whether it’s in a sun-drenched field, a cozy café, or your favorite coastal spot.

  

  
  

  4. It helps us plan together.

  The engagement shoot also gives us a chance to talk about your wedding day vision. We can chat through lighting, timelines, locations, and what matters most to you. By the time your wedding arrives, I’ll know how to photograph you in a way that truly reflects who you are.

  
  
  
  

  Your wedding photos shouldn’t just be beautiful — they should feel like you. That’s why I always create a relaxed, fun, and safe space for my couples to be themselves, whether we’re chasing golden light or sharing a laugh during a quiet in-between moment.

  
  

  If you’re newly engaged and thinking ahead to your big day, I’d love to chat and start creating something special together. Visit www.acephotography.info to see more of my work and reach out to start planning your engagement session — it’s the first step to photos you’ll treasure forever.

At Ace Photography, I’m all about creating a comfortable, uplifting space where you feel like yourself — not forced or posed. My sessions are filled with movement, laughter, and quiet moments that feel natural and real. I believe in storytelling through connection, and that every couple, family, or moment has its own kind of magic.

Want to learn more or browse my recent work? Head to www.acephotography.info — or connect with me on Instagram for behind-the-scenes, tips, and sneak peeks.