10 tips to get the best wedding photos, part 6: Scout Your Locations
a Montreal Wedding couple, on their wedding day
The Secret to Flawless Wedding Photos? Preparation.
Imagine this: It’s your wedding day. The schedule is tight, the light is fading, and suddenly, you're scrambling to find the perfect spot for portraits. The last thing you want is to waste precious time hunting for scenic backdrops while your guests wait and your nerves spike.
Visit (or Have Your Photographer Visit) the Venue Beforehand
One of the biggest mistakes couples make? They don’t scout their locations. The best wedding photographers don’t just show up and wing it—we strategize, we visualize, and we prepare to make sure every shot is stunning.
Why Location Scouting is Non-Negotiable:
✅ Find the Best Light – Every venue has its magic hour spots, and trust me, lighting can make or break your photos. A pre-visit helps us track how the sun moves at different times of the day.
✅ Choose Backdrops That Complement Your Style – Whether you love a dramatic cityscape, an elegant garden, or a moody architectural backdrop, knowing the best angles ahead of time ensures you get photos that feel authentically you. And we know how much diversity a city like Montreal can offer
✅ Avoid Last-Minute Surprises – Construction zones, unexpected decor changes, or a sudden tent setup? A location scout keeps us ahead of the game so we can pivot without stress. if you are from Montreal, you know construction is a part of daily life.
✅ Plan for Weather Backup – Rain? No problem. Wind? We’ve got a plan. Having pre-scouted indoor and covered areas ensures the weather won’t dictate your memories.
How to Make the Most of It
📍 Schedule a Walkthrough – If possible, visit at the same time of day you’ll be taking photos. This helps you see the lighting in real conditions.
📷 Bring Your Photographer – Or, if that’s not possible, trust an experienced pro who’s skilled at adapting on the fly. (Hint: That’s why you should hire a photographer who knows your venue or has experience scouting quickly. Like us at Rocha Studio)
🎭 Think Beyond the Obvious – Maybe the best spot isn’t the grand staircase everyone uses, but a hidden, ivy-covered corner that offers pure romance.
🚦 Plan for Logistics – Where will family formals happen? Will there be enough space? What’s the fastest way to move from ceremony to portraits without missing cocktail hour? These are details that make or break timelines.
Your Wedding Deserves the Best
Skipping this step? That’s like rolling the dice on your wedding album. The most breathtaking photos don’t just happen—they’re designed, planned, and executed with precision.
So, take the time. Scout the locations. Or better yet—work with a photographer who already knows how to turn any setting into a masterpiece.
Your wedding is once in a lifetime. Your photos should be, too.
🚨 Next up in the series: Stay tuned for Part 7 – Include Personal Details!
