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Wedding Tips

All About Veils: 5 Things That Make A Wedding Veil Fly

Kyle and Katie's veil shot, cathedral length wedding veil

I don’t know about you… But if there’s only one bride & groom portrait I could take on a wedding day, it’s the flowy veil shot!

Believe it or not, there is a little bit of strategy to get that perfect wind-blown look with your veil. There are a few rules / techniques I follow to make these images look natural and magical all at once.

1. I hold the wedding veil in my non-shooting hand.

To get shots like the one below, all I have to do is use your wedding veil to get foreground. That’s what creates that whimsical, soft white corner of the image. But there’s actually a compositional purpose for that flow of veil in the foreground of an image! By holding your veil just right, I create a line of composition. Composition is what trains the eye to flow from one side of the image right to the main subject – you! So it’s extra important to get this in the right position to have that WOW factor.

Christina and Kelvi's veil shot, holding her floor length wedding veil towards the camera

2. Get a little help from friends.

Katriona's veil shot, fingertip length wedding veil
Thanks to a little help from the lovely groom, Daniel, this beautiful bride, Katriona, got her perfect veil moment.

This year I was so excited to add a second shooter to my wedding package. One day I’ll do a blog post on why I prioritized adding that into your wedding experience. But one super helpful thing a second shooter does is toss your veil.

By having my second hold the end of your veil high then drop it on three, I get a natural wind-blown look without any sign of human interference. It looks like I took the shot at some lucky moment of God-sent wind for that regal look. If you are reading this and you’re a photographer who shoots alone, don’t worry. You can also achieve this look without a second shooter. All you need is a little help from the groom or a bridal party member.

3. Outdoor veil shots make the most sense.

I am a firm believer that, whenever possible, all veil shots should be taken in an outdoor setting. I prefer my style to always reflect the natural – natural colors, light, moments, posing, and yes, even veil flow.

Wind doesn’t blow inside, so a dramatic veil shot taken indoors takes that subtle magic out of it. I want most images to hide any amount of work or technique taken by the photographer to achieve them. If I see an indoor veil shot, I tend to wonder who or what was responsible. But when outdoors, it’s almost as though the effect makes enough sense to avoid wondering what the technique was.

That said, I know not all weddings are blessed with sunshine and light breezes. On rainy wedding days, I’ll find a covered porch area with outdoor views in the background to get that “must-have” shot! All it takes is a little creativity.

4. Weight matters.

Different types of veils fly differently. The weight of your bridal veil will highly determine how it flows and falls. For example, beaded wedding veils it will drop a lot faster and more uniformly. Lace adorned veils will flow more, but still add weight to the edges. Plain, sheer veils will drop the slowest, maybe even catching the natural wind as it falls for a wavier look.

Also, layers and fabric types add a lot more weight than you might think. For the wind-swept veil shot, opt for a single layer veil. As far as fabric goes, fine tulle will fly much more naturally than stiff tulle. Think sheer curtain vs. ballerina tutu as a comparison when you go shopping.

If you’re opting for a more dramatic veil shot, think about the weight of your veil as you shop. If that’s not high on your priority list, you have much more leeway with the detail.

Leah and Regan's beautiful veil shot with the help of another photographer holding the wedding veil.

5. Length matters.

The last thing to think about when you’re choosing your wedding veil is the length. Nowadays, veils come in variety of lengths & styles, so it’s easy to get overwhelmed by wondering how well they photograph.

I found an amazing guide to all things veils to help educate you all on the different styles and lengths. But the best rule of thumb is that the longer the veil, the more dramatic the veil shot.

My “Fly Zone” typically includes veils from fingertip length (reaches all the way down to the tip of your fingers when your arms and shoulders are relaxed) to cathedral length (the veils that drag behind your dress train).


Before I became a wedding photographer, I had no idea how many types of veils were out there and how they changed the effect in an image. To sum it up, there is no “right” or “wrong” wedding veil to choose. Your preference and style should always be the first factor you consider. But by thinking ahead to your final gallery, in every aspect of the wedding planning process, you can save yourself from different expectations than the final product and fall all the more in love with your images.

If you ever have any questions about how that wedding veil you have your eye on will photograph on the wedding day, feel free to contact me using my “General” contact form or e-mail me directly at emilynicoles10@gmail.com with a link to the veils your considering. I would be more than happy to help you out and show you how well your dream veil will fly!

Happy planning!!

Xx Emily

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Planning your wedding in Savannah, Georgia, provides you with so many options in a city full of Southern charm, historic elegance, and breathtaking low-country beauty. Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic garden ceremony, a grand ballroom reception, or something in between, Savannah seems to have wedding venues for every taste. As a Georgia wedding photographer, I’ve done the research so you don’t have to.

Savannah wedding venues, list of the best venues from a SAV wedding photographer who shoots light and airy style wedding photos | side by side images of Spanish moss at a Savannah wedding venue

Why You Should Consider Savannah Wedding Venues

Savannah is a city unlike any other. With its oak-lined streets, historic homes, and timeless coastal views, it’s no surprise that couples flock here to tie the knot. Savannah wedding venues offer something for everyone—from intimate settings surrounded by nature to grand estates steeped in history. Plus, its mild climate makes it a perfect choice for weddings year-round.

Top Savannah Wedding Venues to Consider

Hotel Bardo (formerly, The Mansion on Forsyth Park)

For couples seeking a venue that provides a fun vintage aesthetic amidst classic Savannah landmarks, Hotel Bardo is one of Savannah’s crown jewels. This venue combines historic charm with mid-century modern sophistication, offering everything from intimate indoor spaces to a picturesque garden courtyard.

Wormsloe Historic Site

For those who want to embrace Savannah’s natural beauty, Wormsloe Historic Site provides one of the most iconic backdrops in the city. The long driveway lined with towering live oaks draped in Spanish moss is a bride’s dream. It’s a serene, ethereal setting perfect for a romantic outdoor ceremony.

The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa

If waterfront views are your vibe, The Westin Savannah Harbor offers a stunning riverside backdrop. With expansive lawns overlooking the Savannah River, this venue blends elegance and nature seamlessly. Plus, the convenience of on-site accommodations makes it ideal for your out-of-town guests.

The Savannah Yacht Club

Couples who envision a sophisticated coastal wedding will fall in love with The Savannah Yacht Club. This venue offers sweeping views of the water, nautical charm, and an air of exclusivity. It’s perfect for smaller, more intimate weddings or grand celebrations with a coastal flair.

Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum

For history buffs and lovers of unique spaces, the Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum is a standout option. This venue features a lush garden courtyard and historic exhibits that add personality and charm to your wedding. The combination of indoor and outdoor spaces offers flexibility for your big day.

Bethesda Academy

Bethesda Academy boasts one of Savannah’s most stunning natural landscapes, featuring majestic oak trees draped in Spanish moss and rolling green fields. Its historic chapel and beautiful outdoor spaces create a dreamy, intimate setting perfect for a romantic Low-Country-inspired wedding.

The Mackey House

Tucked away in a private estate surrounded by nature, The Mackey House is a venue straight out of a fairytale. With a grand Southern-style mansion, lush gardens, and a peaceful lake, it’s the perfect place for an outdoor wedding full of whimsy and charm.

The Ford Field & River Club

Located just outside Savannah in Richmond Hill, this venue exudes refined Southern elegance. The sprawling estate features scenic views of the Ogeechee River, romantic oak groves, and luxurious accommodations, making it a perfect choice for an intimate yet grand wedding experience.

The Harper Fowlkes House

The Harper Fowlkes House is a historic and elegant mansion nestled in the heart of Savannah’s historic district. With its Greek Revival architecture, sweeping staircase, and lush gardens, this venue exudes timeless sophistication and charm. The courtyard garden is ideal for an intimate outdoor ceremony or cocktail hour, while the mansion’s interior offers a beautifully preserved space for receptions with intricate details like antique furnishings and grand windows.

The Kehoe House

The Kehoe House is a stunning, historic mansion located in the heart of Savannah’s Historic District. Built in 1892, this stately home is an exquisite example of Renaissance Revival architecture. Known for its ornate ironwork, grand interiors, and warm Southern hospitality, the Kehoe House is ideal for couples seeking a venue with timeless elegance and charm.

Savannah wedding venues, list of the best venues from a SAV wedding photographer who shoots light and airy style wedding photos | side by side photos, left side image shows a long rectangle table set for a wedding reception amidst live oak trees draped with Spanish moss; right side photo shows a set of gold wedding rings next to a strand of Spanish moss

Tips for Choosing Between These Savannah Wedding Venues

  1. Consider Your Guest List Size
    Savannah wedding venues come in all shapes and sizes. From intimate gardens to sprawling estates, ensure the venue you choose comfortably accommodates your guest list.
  2. Think About Your Wedding Style
    Your venue should reflect your wedding vision. Are you dreaming of timeless elegance, coastal charm, or a whimsical outdoor affair? Savannah has venues that can bring any aesthetic to life, but the wrong venue can make your details and decor appear out of place. Make the most of that investment (and wedding photos) by choosing a venue that harmonizes with your style!
  3. Factor in Logistics
    From transportation to accommodations, Savannah is known for its hospitality, but it’s wise to consider the proximity of your venue to hotels and local attractions for your guests’ convenience. Consider traffic, city events on or around your wedding day that may cause disruption, and other logistics your guests may face. A wedding planner will help you navigate all the unexpected challenges with ease!
  4. Book Early
    Savannah is a popular wedding destination, especially in spring and fall. To secure your dream venue, book your Savannah wedding venue as early as possible! Then secure primary vendors on your list such as photographer, videographer, planner (if you don’t yet have one) and more.
Savannah wedding venues, list of the best venues from a SAV wedding photographer who shoots light and airy style wedding photos | photo shows a wedding couple kissing under the Spanish moss, wearing a light grey linen suit (groom) and an off-the-shoulder satin wedding gown (bride)

Making the Most of Savannah Wedding Venues

Choosing one of Savannah’s stunning wedding venues is just the beginning. Personalize your celebration with touches that reflect your interests and love story. Whether it’s incorporating local cuisine like shrimp and grits, offering your guests trolley rides through the historic district, or having your photos taken under the iconic Spanish moss, Savannah is full of ways to make your wedding day an unforgettable experience for all.

Planning a wedding is no small task, but having a photographer who knows and loves the charm of Savannah can make all the difference.

I specialize in creating artful images out of your favorite memories. Booking me ensures you’ll have a wedding gallery that represents the essence of your love and legacy in every image. Learn more about my services and approach here.

If you’re considering a wedding in Savannah, I’d love to capture every moment for you. Let’s connect and discuss how I can create timeless art from your most cherished memories.

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