Top Tips You Have to Know to Get an Epic Confetti Photo!
As a professional wedding photographer covering weddings in the UK and abroad for nearly 10 years, I’ve picked up a few tricks on the way to capture the perfect confetti moment. The confetti toss adds such a happy and celebratory element to any wedding celebration, and whether you are camera shy or love being in the spotlight, confetti shots create epic and jubilant photos - perhaps your favourite photo of the day!
In this blog, I will explore the best types of confetti for photographs and provide essential tips on how to achieve picture-perfect confetti shots.
3 steps to Choosing the perfect Confetti
1) Choose the right type of confetti - This is crucial for creating captivating photos. Opt for confetti that stands out in photographs and complements the overall theme and colour palette of the wedding. Biodegradable and natural confetti options, such as flower petals, dried leaves, or rice paper confetti, not only look beautiful but are also environmentally friendly, making them a popular choice among my couples.
2) Consider size, weight and shape - Confetti comes in various shapes, weight and sizes, and each can have a different visual impact on the photos. Larger confetti pieces tend to be more visible and create an impressive effect when thrown into the air. On the other hand, smaller confetti can produce a gentle, dreamy atmosphere, especially when caught in the sunlight. Also, make sure your confetti isn’t too heavy as it will fall right down and your photographer will miss out on the iconic confetti shot!
3) Think about the colours and contrast - Bold and vibrant colours can add a pop of excitement to your confetti shots. As a photographer, I always encourage my couples to choose confetti in colours that stand out against the background. Bright and contrasting confetti hues will make the photos more dynamic and visually appealing. This doesn’t get mentioned enough so I feel the need to address this: please mindful of the type of confetti used, as some tissue and petals might not be colourfast when wet and could stain clothing!
PRO TIP: Do a test!
Want to get it right? Do a few tests replicating similar conditions as on your wedding day to experiment with different types of confetti and find the effect you want for your wedding. You can send a video to your photographer and they will let you know if the chosen confetti and effect is epic confetti shot material!
the Secrets to an Epic Confetti Shot
Yay congratulations on choosing your perfect confetti!!
Now it’s time to know how to optimise your confetti moment and get the best photos possible! Whether you are camera shy or love being in the spotlight, these confetti shots will be iconic if you follow these few tips!
1. Get Permission First!
Before diving into the confetti frenzy, check with the wedding venue to see if they have any preferences or restrictions regarding the type and location of confetti tossing. To ensure an abundant supply of confetti and an organized toss, consider providing it for your guests. Assign your bridal party the task of distributing confetti and guiding guests to the right positions.
2. Optimal Quantity of Confetti:
When it comes to confetti, more is always better! Aim for at least two big handfuls of confetti per guest to create those incredible, camera-filled moments. Prepare well in advance and have an abundance of confetti on hand to ensure a visually stunning confetti shot.
3. Consider the Environment:
Think about the location where you plan to toss the confetti and its potential mess. Biodegradable options, like dried flower petals, are excellent for outdoor settings, as they are eco-friendly and won't leave a trace after the celebration. Explore various environmentally friendly confetti options available on platforms like Etsy, or go foraging for petals or leaves in your favourite or most sentimental spot a few months before your wedding day and let them dry out!
4. Embrace the Moment:
When the confetti starts flying, don't be shy! Embrace the chaos, smile at your guests, and enjoy the unique experience. Take your time during the confetti toss, and let the photographer capture your genuine reactions amid the joyful shower (Pro tip: make sure not to look down too much, look at each other or at your loved ones!)
5. Group Shot or Tunnel?
Choose between a group confetti shot, perfect for capturing all guests in one frame, or a tunnel formation straight after the ceremony. The tunnel option also allows you to have a few moments of privacy while the guests get in formation. To facilitate a smooth organisation, have your most proactive bridesmaid or maid of honour organise the guests following the photographer’s directions!
6. Confetti Cannons
Fancy taking it to the next level? For a confetti throw of epic proportions, consider using confetti cannons. While providing cannons for every guest might be costly, strategically placing a few cannons along the confetti line-up can create a breathtaking effect. Please make sure that the cannons are safely operated by capable adults, not children, and remind them to point the cannons towards the sky, not you or other guests! :)
7. Feeling up for a round two? The First Dance Confetti:
I’m seeing more and more the trend to include confetti to the first dance! Use confetti cannons to add a wow factor to the start of your evening party. Make sure to check with the venue if you are allowed to use confetti on the dance floor area!
Eco-Friendly Alternatives to Dried Petals:
If traditional confetti isn't an option, get creative with eco-friendly alternatives. I’ve seen them all: dried lavender, colourful flags, paper aeroplanes, fresh leaves, bubbles, ribbon wands, paper ribbons, rice, bird seeds, or pinched paper shapes for unique and planet-friendly confetti options!
As you can see, by choosing the right type of confetti, paying attention to colours and timing, and effectively communicating with the couple and guests, you can create stunning and timeless confetti photos that will be cherished by the newlyweds for years to come. So, gear up, get ready, embrace the confetti magic to get those movie-worthy epic shots on your special day!
Thank you so much for taking the time to read this blog!
If you wanted to read more wedding planning tips, head to my other blog posts - other readers LOVED my article on how to nail the perfect first kiss and my 15 must-have essentials for wedding mornings!
Would you like to chat about booking me for your wedding? Do you think I’d be the perfect wedding photographer for someone you know who is getting married soon? Message me below to book!
Much love,
Constance x
