October 20, 2026
Tips for the Perfect Wedding Kiss Photo
Atlanta wedding photographer Janet Howard Studio shares simple tips for a beautiful ceremony kiss photo. Make your moment last and look its best.
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Most people dream of the perfect wedding ceremony kiss. It's one of the most anticipated moments of the entire wedding day. But it's actually harder than it seems for it to look perfect.
After more than 20 years of photographing weddings, I've learned that a few simple things can make a big difference in how your first kiss photographs turn out. Check out my tips for the perfect wedding kiss photo.

1. Mark Where to Stand
This isn't just for the kiss, but for the entire ceremony. There is a reason why every movement in TV, stage and film is meticulously blocked: so that you tell the story without minor distractions detracting from it.
Most people don't line up perfectly during the ceremony. Because your perspective of where you're standing doesn't show you the whole picture, and because you're thinking about a lot of other things. Of all the things to be going through your head during the ceremony, where you're standing isn't one. So, if you want to make sure you're both centered, don't leave it to chance. Mark the correct spots for the officiant, bride, and groom (or even the wedding party). Even a small piece of tape can make sure you know exactly where to stand without having to think about it.

2. Assign someone to adjust your train
The single most common distraction in wedding ceremony photos is when the train doesn't get arranged, leaving a bunch of fabric at the bride's feet. Make sure that a bridesmaid knows it is her job to arrange the dress and veil. It really goes the extra mile to make the entire scene look romantic and beautiful.

3. Take your time
This is where the nerves come in. So many couples do a kiss that it's over before the shutter can click.
I recommend holding it for 2-3 seconds. You don't need to count in your head, but give yourselves a moment to enjoy it.
Not only does this give your photographer the opportunity to capture a beautiful image, but it also gives your guests time to cheer and celebrate with you.
My tip: A kiss that feels just a little longer than normal usually looks perfectly natural in photographs. And the guests love it!

4. ... but don't go overboard
There is a fine line between a great ceremony kiss and when it starts to feel a little uncomfortable. Remember, it's a kiss, not a makeout.
5. Practice!
You kiss every day, so who would think you need to practice for the wedding? But a little practice, besides just being fun, makes sure that you're both on the same page about what your kiss is going to look like. If you practice beforehand, you won't have to think about it in the moment, and you can just stay in the emotions you're feeling as you tie the knot.

6. Ask the Officiant to move aside
If your ceremony space allows for it, many officiants will move aside when it's time for the kiss to allow the moment to focus on just the two of you. It makes for a great moment when there's not a third person in the middle of the moment.
7. Add a bonus kiss in the aisle
As you make your way down the aisle, take a moment to stop and kiss again. Not only does it make for a good photo, it gives you one final chance to soak up the joy in the moment and celebrate your final steps out of the ceremony.


