Lights, Camera, 'I Do!': What Your Photographer Wishes You Knew About Wedding Venues

Forever starts here

JULIA & CARTER // VOLANT, PA

When it comes to wedding planning, the venue is often one of the first—and biggest—decisions you’ll make. It's the heartbeat of your day, the setting for your love story. Choosing the perfect wedding venue is about more than just pretty views and Pinterest-worthy vibes — it's about creating a backdrop where memories come to life and look amazing in photos. As a wedding photographer, I’ve seen the difference the right venue can make. So, before you sign on the dotted line, let’s break down what to really look for through the lens of your wedding photographer.

ceremony overlooking the pond and deck at Willowbrook Weddings in Volant, PA

reception barn at sunset at Willowbrook Weddings in Volant, PA

table setting for Willowbrook wedding reception in Volant, PA

close up of engagement ring as bride fixes her earring in Willowbrook bridal suite in Volant, PA

Pittsburgh bride sits on a velet blue couch and gazes out the window of the bridal suite at Willowbrook in Volant, PA

Let There Be (Natural) Light

Lighting is the #1 factor in how your wedding photos turn out. Natural light is flattering, romantic, and brings out vibrant colors without harsh shadows or orange tones from overhead bulbs.

Photographer tip: Look for venues with:

Large windows in the bridal suite
Open-air or outdoor ceremony spaces
If you’re planning an outdoor ceremony, consider the time of day and sun positioning to avoid harsh shadows.
Golden hour photo ops

Example: Willowbrook is a dream for this! The bridal suite is flooded with window light, and the reception barn has panoramic windows that glow at sunset. Chef’s kiss for romantic portraits!

Variety Is the Spice of... Wedding Photos

Diverse photo backdrops = more creative, dynamic photos. Think variety: nature, architecture, cozy corners, water features.

Photographer tip: Scout the venue with these photo spots in mind:

Dock or pond for reflections
Tall trees or fields for golden hour
Indoor space with texture (brick, wood beams, etc)
dreamy willow trees
rustic barns
open fields
cozy porches,
even fun patios with twinkling lights

bride and bridesmaids wear heart shaped sunglasses and make a kissy face at camera at Willowbrook in Volant, PA

bride laughs and embraces all of her bridesmaids in the bridal suite at Willowbrook in Volant, PA

bride and bridesmaids smile at their reflection in Hollywood vanity mirror in the bridal suite at Willowbrook in Volant

Pittsburgh bride and bridesmaids walk and laugh in courtyard of reception barn at Willowbrook in Volant

Pittsburgh bride and bridesmaids pose with bouquets in courtyard of reception barn at Willowbrook in Volant, PA

Pittsburgh bride and bridesmaids walk arm in arm and laugh in courtyard of reception barn at Willowbrook in Volant, PA

The Bridal Suite: Not Just a Room, It’s a Vibe

Having a spacious, well-lit bridal suite (and one for the guys!) makes a huge difference. You’ll get beautiful prep photos and stay close to the action.

Ask Yourself:

Is there enough space for your party to get ready comfortably?
Can your photographer capture candid moments without tight corners?

Willowbrook nails this with vanity mirrors, stylish couches for photos, and a relaxed guy’s suite with porch access.

Logistics = Less Stress, More Smiles

Great photos need time and freedom to move. Tight schedules or distant photo locations can add stress and eat into your day.

Planning Pointers:

Make sure there’s space to shoot the ceremony from multiple angles
Ask about rain plans (tents, covered patios, indoor options)
Minimize travel by choosing venues with multiple usable photo areas
Are there places for group shots?

Food for thought: If the ceremony space has no side aisles, I may only have one straight-on shot. If your dream portraits require a drive to a scenic overlook or a different location, factor that time into your timeline.

Pittsburgh bride poses with bouquet and looks off in the distance at Willowbrook in Volant, PA

Pittsburgh bride shares her excitment and celebrates at Willowbrook in Volant, PA

Pittsburgh bride gently touches her hand to her face as she poses for photos at Willowbrook in Volant, PA

Wedding detail layflat that includes floral invitation, rings, and personal vows in the bridal suite at Willowbrook

Wedding stationery suite featuring floral designs and wedding rings on dark background.

welcome flower box sign at Willowbrook in Volant

Wedding detail layflat that includes groom's shoes, tie, and personal vows in the bridal suite at Willowbrook in Volant

Groom and Groomsmen talk and toast drinks in front of event barn at Willowbrook wedding in Volant, PA

Groom and Groomsmen stand with sunglasses in front of event barn at Willowbrook wedding in Volant, PA

Groom and Groomsmen walk with sunglasses on in front of event barn at Willowbrook wedding in Volant, PA

Pittsburgh groom holds lapel and looks off in the distance at Willowbrook wedding in Volant, PA

groomsmen lift groom up in a hold and celebrate at Willowbrook wedding in Volant, PA

Pittsburgh groom holds lapel and looks at the camera at Willowbrook wedding in Volant, PA

Pittsburgh groom slings jacket over his shoulder and looks off in the distance at Willowbrook wedding in Volant, PA

Pittsburgh groom adjusts jacket and smiles at Willowbrook wedding in Volant, PA

Pittsburgh groom walks towards camera and looks off in the distance at Willowbrook wedding in Volant, PA

bridal party celebrates at Willowbrook wedding reception in Volant, PA

Pittsburgh bride and groom dip kiss under dark rain clouds at Willowbrook wedding reception in Volant, PA

Pittsburgh bride and groom embrace under rainbow at Willowbrook wedding reception in Volant, PA

close up of couple's hands in an embrace at Willowbrook wedding reception in Volant, PA

close up of wedding rings under rainbow at Willowbrook wedding reception in Volant, PA

Pittsburgh bride and groom run and laugh under rainbow at Willowbrook wedding reception in Volant, PA

When choosing a venue, think beyond the guest list and floor plan — think about the story your photos will tell. From the lighting to the layout, every detail can elevate your wedding photography and create frame-worthy memories.

Quick Tip Recap:

Natural light > overhead lights
Look for variety in scenery
Prioritize functional, aesthetic prep spaces
Don’t forget the flow of the day and photo-friendly logistics

...Ready to find the perfect venue and capture every magical moment?

Let’s chat and plan your dream wedding day with stunning photos in mind! I’m here to help you find the perfect place where your love story can shine — through the lens and beyond.

Vendors

Venue-Willowbrook

close up of bride and bridesmaids bouquets at Willowbrook in Volant, PA

Florist- Posies By Patti

close up of wedding cake in close up at Willowbrook in Volant, PA

Bakery- Potomac Bakery

bride gets ready in bridal suite at Willowbrook in Volant, PA

MUA/Hair Stylist- ALB Beauty Lodge

Coordinator- Bella Born Events

silhoutte of dancing guests in courtyard of Willowbrook wedding reception in Volant, PA

DJ Joe Costa

Willowbrook, a venue known for its breathtaking spaces, provides a spacious bridal suite designed for both the bridal party and groomsmen. The bride’s area features Hollywood vanity mirrors where the ladies can glam up for the special day. The lighting is a dream for photographers, and next to the windows, you'll find two stylish blue and grey couches perfect for bridal photos. On the guys' side, there's ample space to unwind, play cards at the table, or relax with a cold drink on the porch. The venue offers numerous picturesque photo spots throughout the property, such as the beautiful willow trees, the dock and pond (ideal for ceremonies), vast open fields, and the outdoor patio. The reception barn boasts large windows that provide guests with a stunning panoramic view of the property while they enjoy dinner. Even better, the owners are dedicated to giving their couples the best experience and are always looking at ways to elevate the property.