how to spot a picture-
perfect wedding venue
(Photographer Tips Inside)
Let’s be real - choosing your wedding venue is one of the most exciting decisions you’ll make in the planning process. And while the overall look, size and perhaps even budget is important — there’s one thing couple don’t always consider: how the space photographs!
As a Chicago Wedding Photographer, I’ve quickly learned that not all venues are created equal when it comes to capturing beautiful photographs. If you’re aiming for soft, romantic images that reflect who you are and the look you’re going for, your venue will either help or hold your back. That’s exactly why I put this guide together: to help you decide on a space that support both your story and your vision.
So whether you’re planning everything spread across multiple locations or you’re celebrating it all in one place, here are 7 key features that make a venue picture-perfect — and why they’ll impact your experience and your final gallery.
Hi! I’m Raul — founder of Anchored Wedding Photography. I’m a Chicago wedding photographer passionate about authentic storytelling and capturing heartfelt, meaningful moments that reflect your love, just as it felt on your day.
On-Site locations for portraits
Whether it’s for family formals, bridal party shots or your private bride and groom session. Having these spaces are such a gem — they can be anywhere from:
Gardens
Courtyards
Interesting architecture
Open spaces with big windows
Why it matters:
Having on-site options for your portrait session saves time, keeps things stress-free, and gives you a solid backup plan if traveling to another location becomes tricky due to traffic or timing.
2. Getting Ready spaces
If you’re getting ready on-site, look for suites are bright, spacious and large enough to fit your family or bridal party comfortably. You’ll want a space that has good lighting, a calm atmosphere and enough space to move around.
Why it matters:
This is where your wedding day starts. You’ll share lots of laughs, emotional moments, and quiet time with your loved ones. A dark and cramped room can make things feel a bit chaotic — and it can show in your photos.
Bonus tip: Make sure the bridal and groom suites are far enough apart to keep the first look a surprise!
3. Natural Light is Everything
While some venues just don’t get a lot of natural light, this doesn’t mean your photographs won’t look their best! A skilled photographer can work with flash to create beautiful, natural-looking images. That said, there’s no denying that natural light makes everything easier and often more flattering.
Here’s what to look for:
Big windows
Skylights
Light colored or bright interiors
Why it matters:
If you are going for a specific look such as ‘true-to-life skin tones or ‘bright and airy’ photos — natural light can play a huge role in this. Plus, your guests will have better phone pictures without having to use their flash!
4. Outdoor Ceremony? Mind the sun.
Often times, this tends to be overlooked — especially when touring a venue on a gorgeous day. The ceremony spot might look perfect at the time of your visit, but the sun’s position can be completely different on your actual wedding day.
Here’s a helpful tip:
Use an app like “Sky View Lite” to track the sun’s path. Once opened, type ‘sun’ in the search bar and click on it. You can then follow it’s path at any time of day — and the best part? You can select your actual wedding date to get a realistic preview.
Why it matters:
This might help you plan what time your ceremony should be held. While we obviously can’t predict weather, a little planning goes a long way to avoid squinty eyes or harsh light and create a more flattering light for your ceremony photogaphs.
If those gorgeous golden-hour portraits are high on your wishlist, this tip is vital. Look for venues with west-facing views. Think landscapes, rooftops, or even open fields. While sunset times change throughout the season, we always know it sets west.
Just a heads up: Golden hour photographs depends a bit on the weather - cloudy skies can change the look and feel. But looking out for these locations facing west will increases your chances if these kind of photographs are a must for you wedding day.
5. Want that golden glow? look west
It’s easy to focus on price, size and amenities — but as a photographer, I see things a little differently. I’m looking at lighting, the layout, and all fo the details that impact how your story is captured.
That said, I am aware that most couples won’t reach out to a photographer until after they’ve booked their venue — and that’s completely normal. Whether you’re still deciding or you already booked a venue, my goal will always be the same: To help you feel supported and bring your vision to life.
If you’re unsure about how your venue will photograph or just want a second opinion, I’m happy to help — even if you haven’t booked me yet. It’s always a pleasure to be a resource and advocate for your vision.
If you’d like to talk through ideas or officially book your date — Let’s connect by clicking the link below!
at the end of the day, you don’t need a “perfect” venue - you just need one that supports your vision.
Hi! I’m Raul — founder of Anchored Wedding Photography. I’m a Chicago wedding photographer passionate about authentic storytelling and capturing heartfelt, meaningful moments that reflect your love, just as it felt on your day.