Picture this...
PicThe vows have been exchanged. The rings are on. The officiant says, "You may now kiss the bride!"
The crowd cheers, you lean in for that cinematic, romantic moment, and... click.
When you get your photos back, it’s a stunning image of the two of you kissing. But right there, hovering directly between your faces in the background, is your officiant’s head.
It is one of the most common "oops" moments in wedding photography. While we love your officiant (especially if it’s a friend or family member!), you probably don't want them looming over your shoulder in one of the most iconic photos of your life.
The Solution: The "Side-Step"
Getting a clean background for your first kiss is actually very easy. It just requires a quick conversation during your rehearsal.
Here is the plan:
The Cue: Tell your officiant that right after they say the final pronouncement (e.g., "By the power vested in me..."), that is their cue to move.
The Move: Before they say "You may kiss...", ask them to take two big steps to the left or right.
The Result: They vanish from the frame, leaving just the two of you (and a beautiful background) for the big moment.
Why It Matters As your photographer, I am shooting with a lens that compresses the background. This means even if the officiant is standing three feet behind you, in the photo, it will look like they are standing right next to you.
By stepping aside, we create "negative space" around you. This draws the viewer's eye straight to your connection and makes the image feel grander and more intimate.
When to Bring It Up? The Rehearsal is the perfect time! It feels much more natural to practice the "side-step" when you are walking through the ceremony logistics than to try and remember it in the heat of the moment.
A Note for "Friend" Officiants Professional officiants often do this automatically, but if you are having a friend or family member ordain your wedding, they might not know! They are likely focused on getting the words right (and not crying!). A gentle reminder will help them help you get the best photos possible.
Use this: "Hey! Our photographer gave us a great tip for the ceremony photos. Right before you announce 'You may kiss the bride,' could you take a quick step to the side? It helps clear the background so we can get that epic movie-poster shot of the kiss! We can practice it at the rehearsal so it feels natural."
