Dance the night away

Let your hair down, put on the comfy shoes and lose the wedding dress train - it's time to find a good rhythm and have a party!


By this time your guests will be relaxed and in high spirits. The movement, the lights, the energy are all essential camera fodder. I find I gather more shots during the evening because things move at a dizzying speed and the best hope for catching rewarding photographs in low light is to 'spray and pray'! You never know what you're gonna get but it's fun finding out.

Party crowd dances and raises hands under blue and purple laser lights at a nightclub event.
A couple dressed in formal attire walks down a nighttime city street while carrying shopping bags.
Friends toasting and laughing together with cocktail glasses in black and white photography.
A group of cyclists gathered near a street diversion sign at night under a streetlight on a residential road.
People dancing at a dimly lit party with a person in white suit and others in formal attire on the dance floor.
Crowd of people dancing under colorful purple and yellow lights at a nightclub or party venue.
Dancing couples on a dimly lit dance floor in an intimate black and white scene.
Couples dancing at a vibrant indoor party with colorful lighting and festive decorations.
Dark restaurant interior with leather booth seating and industrial-style decor illuminated by warm lighting.
A black and white celebration shows a three-tiered wedding cake being cut while guests gather around in an indoor venue.
Wedding PARTY PHOTOGRAPHY Tips


Absolute Bangers


Allow a little time for coffee and digestion before the first dance. Your guests will follow you onto the dance floor more enthusiastically! Whether you employ a live band, a DJ or opt for your own playlist, nobody knows your guests better than you. With careful musical picks and a few absolute bangers, you'll keep the dance floor full. Another option is to arrange a line dance or a Ceilidh band to keep everyone involved. Remember to flood the dance floor with lovely light. If a multi use room needs to be turned around, give the AV guys enough time to setup and do sound checks.



Good Stodge


For the little moments like cutting the cake, I recommend attaching it to the speeches or just before you hit the dance floor. Your caterer will be able to cut it up and serve your guests just as they need a sugar boost! Besides the wedding cake, I've seen cheese tables, hog roasts, pizza vans, nuggets and a whole range of other treats doing the rounds in the evening. As well as food to soak up the alcohol, Photobooths are available in all kinds of styles, from London taxis and rickshaws to vintage caravans. Your merry guests will love dressing up and busting some moves in front of a floral or tinsel background. You may even like to do a 360 degree video booth! This will give you a nice record of alternative images at the end of the evening. I can even add your images and videos to my Photohub if your suppliers authorise me to host them and make prints through my store.



Finales


Add a little mischief and throw the bouquet at someone reluctant! Once the wedding party has hit its stride, my work is usually done. If you're dancing into the wee small hours, I've usually photographed a great collection of this chapter of the evening after an hour or two. The main reason I recommend to stay late is if you have plans to go out with a bang. I've captured newlyweds leaving by sail boat, tractor, fire engine and hot air balloon! Some couples finish up with a spectacular fireworks display which rounds out the day with appropriate flare. If you think this might be nice to capture, do let me know what you're planning later on.