[vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Milky Way Wedding Photos

Milky Way wedding photos can be a stunning addition to your wedding day photography gallery. Many of my couples will specifically choose me to capture their big day because they want a unique experience with photos that stand out from traditional wedding photography. These photos are something we generally will take in a dark location during the wedding reception or after the event is over. 

If you’re looking to capture your own wedding photos under the stars, here are some tips on how to capture these breathtaking images:

1. Find a dark location: To capture the Milky Way, you need to be in an area with very little light pollution. Look for a location away from city lights, like a rural area or a national park. I take a lot of my couples into Rocky Mountain National Park as there are many dark-sky locations here.

2. Choose the right time: The Milky Way is visible year-round, but it’s most prominent during the summer months in the Northern Hemisphere (June – September). The best time to capture it is during a new moon when the sky is darkest. Check a moon phase calendar and a clear sky app to plan your photo shoot accordingly. Half of the success of capturing images of the stars is dependent on careful planning. 

3. Use the right gear: To capture the Milky Way, you’ll need a camera that is capable of manually adjusting your settings and a wide-angle lens. A tripod and remote shutter release are also helpful to keep the camera steady and avoid blur. A full-frame body and lens with a wide aperture opening will help bring in more light which will result in clearer and more defined images. 

4. Experiment with your camera settings: Try different camera settings, like a high ISO and a long exposure time, to capture the Milky Way. Adjust the settings until you get the desired effect. A great place to start for most dark-sky locations is a 10s, f2.8 ISO 2000.

5. Pose the couple creatively: The Milky Way can be the background for the couple, but make sure to pose them creatively to add interest to the photo. You can have them hold hands, look at the sky, or even dance.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]