How to Prep for Wedding Detail Shots

When couples think about wedding photography and videography, they usually picture the big stuff: walking down the aisle, that first kiss, dancing under the lights with their favorite people. But every tiny detail is meaningful and tells the story of your wedding day.

As a Jacksonville-based husband and wife photo and video team, one of our favorite things to capture at the start of the day is a beautifully styled flatlay—those overhead shots of your wedding details that preserve the look, feel, and personality of your day.

Let’s talk about how to prep a detail box so we can photograph (and film!) every little touch that made your wedding uniquely you.

What Are Wedding Detail Shots?

Detail shots are the “still life” moments that add texture to your gallery and your wedding film. Think:

• The sparkle of your rings

• The font on your custom invitations

• The perfume you wore when you said “I do”

• The earrings passed down from your grandmother

These may seem small in the moment, but trust us—they’ll transport you back every time you look at them.

What to Include in Your Wedding Detail Box

To make things easy (especially during a fast-paced wedding morning), we recommend putting everything in one box before the big day. You can hand it off to us as soon as we arrive!

Here’s what to include:

For Stationery:

• Full wedding invitation suite (invite, RSVP, envelope, wax seals, etc.)

• Save-the-date card (optional, but nice!)

• Any day-of paper goods (programs, menus, vow books)

Bonus tip: Bring two copies of your invite suite if you can, so we can style both sides!

For Jewelry & Accessories:

For the bride:

• Engagement ring + both wedding bands

• Earrings, necklace, bracelet

• Shoes

• Veil or hairpiece

• Perfume bottle

• Something old/new/borrowed/blue

For the groom:

• Cufflinks, tie, tie clip

• Cologne

• Shoes

• Watch or special heirlooms

• Boutonniere

Fabric + Styling Extras:

If you want your flatlays to look extra luxe, here are a few extras to include:

• A few loose florals or greenery (ask your florist for some spares)

• Ribbon or fabric swatches that match your wedding colors

• A ring box or tray

Why It Matters for Both Photo and Video

Most people associate flatlays with photography, but we include them in your wedding video, too! That slow pan over your rings… the light catching the foil lettering on your invites… its all part of the cinematic vibe that sets the tone for your film.

When you prep these details in advance, it gives us the time and freedom to get creative with how we capture them—both in photos and on film.

Local Tip: When We Arrive on Your Wedding Morning

We usually arrive while hair and makeup are still in progress. That’s the perfect time for us to start with the detail box while things are quiet and natural light is soft.

Handing off a well-packed detail box means you can sip your coffee (or champagne!) and relax while we work our magic.

Final Thoughts

Your wedding day goes by fast—but these small touches help tell the full story. Whether you're getting married in Jacksonville, St. Augustine, or on a beach across the country, a little prep goes a long way toward a beautifully captured gallery and film.

Have questions about your detail box? We’re happy to help!
Reach out to us here, and we’ll walk you through it.