Introduction
All weddings are beautiful and deserve to be celebrated. But when a couple is sealed in the temple, they are sealed for eternity. They do not part at death. There is an added sacredness and respect that comes with temple weddings that many photographers are not familiar with.
Key Cultural Considerations for Temple Weddings
- One thing that is most surprising to photographers about LDS weddings, is they are not invited to the actual temple ceremony. Pictures can not be taken anywhere inside. However they can totally sit in the lobby and use the bathrooms/drinking fountains by the front.
- The temple exit is like the LDS version of the recessional in a wedding. Because the couple typically changes outfits before doing the temple exit, there is not a dedicated time for the exit. (The sealing ceremonies typically take 45 minutes, and the couple usually exit 15-45 minutes after that)
Tips for Brides Working with Non-LDS Photographers
- Explain vocabulary that may be foreign. Such as: sealings, temple exits, etc.
- Sealings = Weddings that happen in temples
- Temple Exits - When couple exits temple doors after sealing ceremony, typically a celebration with cheering. The time of exact exit is not planned
- Create a detailed timeline of photography coverage desired. Click here for a free template
- Set expectations (modesty, language, behavior, etc.)
Set Expectations
- Language:
- In the LDS faith, cursing is not appropriate. Especially on temple grounds, keep language clean and respectful.
- Modesty
- While the modesty standards have changed over the years, cleavage is still not acceptable. Majority of people at the temple are in Sunday/church clothes. Think blouses, skirts, dresses, white shirts and ties. You will not be kicked off temple grounds for mildly inappropriate outfits, but it is disrespectful.
- Off-Limit Areas
- You can take pictures on paved areas or grass areas on temple grounds, but be mindful of plants and flowers.
- Can not take any pictures inside temple
Why Choose an LDS Photographer
By hiring an LDS photographer (like myself) you can avoid miscommunication and mismatched standards all together. Wedding days are stressful, you don't want your photographer adding to it.
Utah brides are very fortunate to have so many photographers familiar with the culture, however brides from other states don't have that privilege. That's why I offer travel photography services for LDS brides across the states.
I was raised a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, served a mission, and was married in the temple August 2025. I am still an active member of the church and have a deep testimony of the temple and the power of sealings. Because of this, I can provide a seamless experience for the temple exit and family/bridal photos with first hand knowledge of what a wedding day at the temple is like!
Conclusion
Do you need a photographer that's a member of the church? Short answer, no. Long answer, it will make your day much more seamless and stress-free. If you are a 2027 bride looking for an LDS wedding photographer, I'd love to chat with you! Fill out the contact form down below and I'll get back to you within 48 hours! :)
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