Flat-Lay Photos: The Deets
- Lisa Wampler | Owner
- May 28
- 3 min read
What Are Flat-Lay Photos?
Flat-lay photography is the art of arranging objects on a flat surface (usually the floor or a tabletop) and shooting straight down. On your wedding day, your flat-lays will capture all of your carefully chosen details in one (or often a handful of) beautiful, cohesive images—everything from your invitation suite to your rings, florals, shoes, and heirlooms.
Showcase Your Story: By grouping items that speak to your personalities and the day’s look, flat-lays tell your wedding’s unique story at a glance.
Highlight the Details: You and your vendors— think your stationer, photographer, planner, and florist—spend months planning out these small details for you. Taking flat-lay photos ensures nothing is overlooked.
Create Shareable Art: These images are perfect for Instagram, Pinterest, and your keepsake album.
Why We Take Flat-Lay Photos
Photos (from left to right) by: @fivesparrowsphotography @toniwiebergphotography @wilderraysphoto
Preserve the Details: Your stationery, jewelry, shoes, and florals all come together to set the tone for your day. Flat-lays freeze those details forever.
Tie Together Your Design: Whether your palette is blush-and-gold or moody jewel tones, seeing everything side by side reinforces your aesthetic.
Make Vendor Portfolios: Stunning flat-lays elevate your photographer’s and florist’s portfolios—and give you gorgeous images to share.
Why You Need to Ask Your Florist for Flat-Lay Florals
Most florists think in terms of bouquets and centerpieces—but for flat-lays you want loose stems and greenery. Here’s why:
Flexibility: Loose sprigs of eucalyptus, garden roses, or ranunculus can be artfully arranged around other items, framing them and adding texture.
Color Cohesion: You can pick accent blooms that perfectly match your palette, without committing to a full extra bouquet.
Less Waste: Florists often have leftover stems or can source just a handful of each bloom, which is more cost-effective than ordering a full bunch.
Be sure to request a small “flat-lay pack” of 10–15 stems in your main accent colors plus foliage. This gives you plenty to play with, and your photographer can trim and style to perfection. Know that flowers aren't free, but they shouldn't cost much and are definitely worth it.
Flat-Lay Packing Checklist
Below is the ultimate list of items to gather for your wedding flat-lay—feel free to reference our handy graphic too!
Paper Goods
Invitation suite (invites, envelopes, RSVP cards, save-the-dates)
Any custom stamps or wax seals
Rings & Jewelry
Engagement ring + wedding bands
Earrings, bracelets, necklaces
Accessories
Veil, hairpins, garter
Cufflinks, tie or pocket square
Custom hanger for your dress/suit
Attire Details
Shoes (bride’s heels, groom’s shoes)
Belt, suspenders, bow tie
Florals & Greenery
Loose stems for styling (ask your florist!)
Boutonnieres or small posies
Heirlooms & Personal Touches
Vintage family photos
Handwritten letters or vows
Special heirloom pieces (e.g., brooch, handkerchief)
Beauty & Fragrance
Perfume or cologne bottles
Makeup palette or nail polish
Fun Extras
Champagne flutes or a small dish for rings
Scissors or ribbon for styling
Any personalized favor or gift item
Pro Tips for Smooth Execution
Pack Everything Together: Use a clear pouch or a small box labeled “Flat-Lay” so nothing gets left behind.
Coordinate With Your Photographer: Send them the list in advance so they can plan out lighting, coordinate extras, and decide what they will use for the background.
Choose a Neutral Backdrop: A marble tile, wooden floor, or simple fabric drape lets your items pop. Some photographers will bring a flat lay board for this.
Time It Right: We always schedule at least 15–20 minutes for flat-lays right when your photographer arrives onsite—allowing them to take their time and style everything while you're still getting ready.
With these tips, your flat-lay photos will be a seamless, stress-free part of your wedding day—and you’ll end up with publication-worthy images that capture every thoughtful detail. Happy planning!
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