Wedding Guide
Seth Ratliff Photography | 2026
I’m so glad you’re here!
Thank you for trusting me with your biggest memories. I'm honored every single time that couples love my work, my style, and want me to capture their day. Photographing weddings is truly my passion, and I work continuously to improve my skills both behind the camera and with wedding planning & coordination.
Quick Info
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Many venues require each vendor to carry liability insurance. The Certificate of Insurance (COI) is available for download below.
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To book & reserve your date, a signed contract and 30% non-refundable retainer are due. This secures me as your wedding photographer and blocks the date from other inquiries.
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You may absolutely request specific photos! I want to make sure you get all of the photos you want, and more, from your wedding day! Keep in mind that my mental list for each wedding is quite long, to include all standard moments and key angles from experience (e.g. bride walking down aisle, groom's reaction, bride solo portraits, first kiss, family photos, candids, parent dances, cake cutting, etc. - the list goes on!)
However, any specific photos, such as a spot at the venue you love, or making sure we get you with a group of friends from college, etc. is definitely something I want you to let me know about!
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I'm excited to work together in planning and to capture/celebrate your special day with you! Feel free to reach out at any time with questions or if you just need my thoughts or ideas on something.
Call/Text: (540) 598-7216
Email: sethratliffphoto@gmail.com
Socials: @sethratliffphoto
Awesome, now where do we start?
Engagement Session
I include an Engagement Session with both my 8 and 10 hour wedding day packages! It's a great way to get to know each other before your wedding day, as well as creating a nice gallery of images for you to use for save the dates, your wedding website, social media, etc.
Engagement sessions can be scheduled whenever it makes sense for your timeline (within a 12 month timeframe from original booking). Some couples plan theirs soon after booking, while others wait until a few months before the wedding. I generally recommend spacing it out from the wedding so you have time to enjoy these images before your full wedding gallery is delivered.
Swap Engagement Session for 4k Ceremony Video
If you’ve already had an engagement session by the time you book with me, or prefer a different option, you may choose a ceremony video in place of the engagement session at no additional cost. The ceremony is professionally recorded in 4K with wireless audio, and delivered within your wedding gallery, offering a simple alternative to hiring a separate videographer for ceremony coverage.
Planning Your Timeline
Planning your wedding doesn't have to be difficult! I'll be here to help with timeline, family photo lists, etc. to make sure your day flows smoothly.
While it is important to have a wedding day timeline, I think it is equally important to be able to enjoy your wedding day as it flows and just follow a general timeframe for main events. So rather than staring at a clock because the timeline says you're supposed to do something at 1:02pm, let's keep it straightforward with some wiggle room for enjoyment.
You can also try out my Wedding Timeline Builder to get a head start.
A relaxed timeline with space for the day to breathe is the best tip I can give!
Sample Wedding Day Timeline
Based on a 4:00 PM ceremony, 10 hours of coverage, and a first look. Every wedding will be different, but this may help give you a starting point!
12:00 PM — Photographer Arrival + Getting Ready Begins
1:30 PM — Bride Final Touches
2:00 PM — Groom Final Touches
2:30 PM — First Look (Optional)
2:45 PM — Couple Portraits
3:15 PM — Wedding Party Photos
3:40 PM — Ceremony Hideaway/Photographer Prep
4:00 PM — Ceremony
4:30 PM — Family Portraits with Couple/Cocktail Hour Begins
5:15 PM — Reception Details + Room Reveal
5:45 PM — Grand Entrance
6:00 PM — First Dance/Parent Dances
6:30 PM — Dinner + Toasts
7:30 PM — Golden Hour Portraits (Sneak away for 10-15 minutes)
8:00 PM — Open Dancing
9:30 PM — Night Portraits (Optional)
10:00 PM — Send-Off/Exit
Wedding Day Essentials
Wedding Details (Gather These Ahead of Time)
Place these in a small box or bag so they’re easy to grab:
Invitation suite (invite, RSVP card, envelope, etc.)
Rings (both engagement ring and wedding bands)
Vow books or handwritten vows
Jewelry, shoes, and accessories
Perfume/cologne
Any meaningful heirlooms or sentimental items you'd like photographed
For You Personally
A water bottle and light snacks
Comfortable shoes or slides for downtime
Touch‑up makeup or blotting papers
Phone charger (or portable battery)
Bluetooth speaker for getting ready is always fun!
Portraits That Feel Natural
When it comes to portraits, and photos in general, I like to capture the natural emotions, movements, and feelings of the day & moment. Do you think you feel awkward in front of the camera? Everyone says that, but then their photos turn out magical. I gently guide you to be yourselves, and the photos just happen!
If the idea of being in front of the camera makes you nervous, you’re not alone. Most of the couples I work with tell me they’re not “photo people” or that they feel awkward in front of a camera... and that’s completely okay. You don’t need to know how to pose or worry about what to do with your hands. My approach is focused on natural movement, connection, and real interaction, rather than stiff or overly posed moments.
What This Looks Like on Your Wedding Day
I’ll give simple, clear direction to get you into good light and flattering positions
From there, I’ll guide you with small prompts rather than rigid poses
You’ll move, walk, talk, laugh, and interact naturally
I’m always watching for the in between moments, this is where the magic happens
No Pressure
You don’t need to practice, rehearse, or “act” a certain way. There’s no expectation to be perfect or overly expressive. Some of the most meaningful images come from simply slowing down and being present with each other. My goal is to create space for moments to unfold naturally, while making sure you still look and feel your best. The result is a set of portraits that feel like you, look effortless and unforced, and reflect real emotion and connection.
Think of it less like posing for photos and more like being gently guided while you spend time together.
