Why Flash Photography is Essential for Weddings: Lessons from a Rainy Elopement

Flash saved the day

     As a wedding photographer in Puerto Rico, you quickly learn that every wedding comes with its own set of unique challenges. One of the most important skills a photographer can develop is mastering flash photography, which allows you to deliver stunning images no matter the lighting conditions. Whether it’s bright sun, fading daylight, or a rainy evening, flash can be the difference between decent shots and extraordinary images. My recent experience photographing Charles and Paulina’s intimate elopement at Copamarina Beach Resort highlights just how crucial flash photography can be when the weather takes an unexpected turn.

     Charles and Paulina’s elopement was planned as a cozy, sun-filled day by the beach. The plan was to rely on natural light for the ceremony, which was scheduled for the golden hour in the early evening. But as often happens in Puerto Rico, the weather had other plans. Just before their ceremony, rain clouds rolled in, and what began as a light drizzle quickly turned into a downpour. While natural light is beautiful, it’s not always reliable—especially when photographing destination weddings in Puerto Rico, where the tropical climate can change in an instant. This is where flash photography becomes a game-changer.

Smile at the camera

     Once the rain started, we had to adapt quickly. The ceremony itself took place under a gazebo, but the lighting was dim, and the overcast sky didn’t provide enough light for the kind of crisp, bright images we wanted. Without flash, these photos could have ended up looking flat or grainy due to high ISO settings. By using off-camera flash, we were able to balance the ambient light from the gloomy weather with soft, flattering light on Charles and Paulina, capturing their emotions and the details of the ceremony beautifully, despite the difficult conditions.

     Flash photography doesn’t just help in low-light situations like rain or night-time ceremonies—it also opens up creative possibilities that natural light can’t always provide. After the rain had passed, we moved the photoshoot to the newly remodeled lobby at Copamarina Beach Resort. This indoor location gave us an entirely different environment to work with—modern, elegant, and perfect for an editorial-style shoot. With the right use of flash, we were able to create dramatic, magazine-worthy images. Charles and Paulina were thrilled with the idea of a "Vogue-inspired" session, and flash allowed us to bring that vision to life by emphasizing the bold contrast and shadows that gave the photos their editorial edge.

Nostalgic

     One of the benefits of mastering flash is that it allows Puerto Rico wedding photographers to shoot in any situation without compromising the quality of their images. During Charles and Paulina’s lobby shoot, we used softboxes and strobes to create that high-fashion look while maintaining control over every element of the lighting. We didn’t have to rely on the venue’s ambient lighting, which often doesn’t flatter the subjects or convey the mood we’re aiming for. Instead, we created exactly the look we wanted by manipulating the light to suit the scene and their stylish attire.

     Flash also enhances your ability to work in various environments, whether it’s indoors or outdoors, and ensures consistency throughout the wedding day. For instance, Charles and Paulina’s photos moved from outdoor portraits to the indoor lobby without any drop in quality or mood. By using artificial lighting, we kept their photos cohesive, even though the settings were drastically different. The versatility that flash photography provides is what sets professional wedding photographers apart, as it ensures that every image is properly lit and captures the essence of the moment.

Styling and profiling

     Moreover, being a wedding photographer in Puerto Rico means that you’re often dealing with bright, harsh sunlight during beach weddings or outdoor events. Flash is essential even in these sunny conditions to fill in shadows and balance out the light, making sure that the couple is well-lit while keeping the background from being overexposed. During Charles and Paulina’s portrait session, even before the rain, flash was used to add dimension to their photos by softening shadows and bringing out the details in their attire.

     For wedding photographers who specialize in destination weddings, especially in unpredictable climates like Puerto Rico, being well-versed in both natural and artificial lighting is critical. Relying solely on natural light can be limiting when conditions change, as they often do. Flash photography provides you with the flexibility to handle any lighting scenario, whether it's dealing with an unexpected rainstorm or creating a polished look indoors. As was the case with Charles and Paulina’s wedding, our ability to quickly adapt to changing light made all the difference in delivering stunning images.

Paulina Kardashian

     Another benefit of flash photography is that it allows you to highlight specific details, like the couple’s outfits, rings, or floral arrangements, in ways that natural light might not. During Charles and Paulina’s editorial session, we used flash to emphasize the rich textures of their attire and the soft glow of their sunglasses, giving their images that high-end feel they were looking for. This level of detail would have been difficult to capture without artificial lighting, especially indoors where natural light was minimal.

     In conclusion, flash photography is an indispensable tool for any wedding photographer, particularly in a place like Puerto Rico where the weather can shift at a moment’s notice. From Charles and Paulina’s rain-soaked ceremony to their indoor editorial shoot, flash allowed us to not only overcome the challenges of the day but also to elevate their photos to a whole new level. For couples planning destination weddings in Puerto Rico, rest assured that with the right photographer who understands both natural and artificial lighting, your photos will be nothing short of spectacular, no matter what surprises the day brings.

The Perfect Destination Wedding Timeline

     Creating a meticulous wedding timeline is one of the most crucial steps in ensuring your special day unfolds smoothly and stress-free. A well-structured timeline not only keeps the day on track but also allows each moment to be savored, from the heartfelt exchange of vows to the joyful celebrations on the dance floor. By carefully planning every stage—from getting ready in the morning to the grand exit at the end of the night—you can ensure that no detail is overlooked and that your photographer captures all the meaningful moments. Each part of the day holds its own significance, contributing to the overall story of your wedding. By mapping out a clear sequence of events, you’ll create a seamless flow that allows you and your guests to fully enjoy the experience without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. A thoughtful timeline balances the practical needs of the day with the emotional and personal touches that make your wedding uniquely yours.

1. Couple Details

Bling and Jimmy Choo

     The day usually starts with capturing details that set the tone for the wedding. These include the bride’s dress, shoes, jewelry, invitations, rings, and other sentimental items. For the groom, it may involve cufflinks, ties, or any personal accessories. It's important to allocate about 45 minutes to an hour for these shots, as they provide context and serve as beautiful storytelling elements in the wedding album. The best time to capture these details is when the bride and groom are getting ready, allowing photographers to work without distractions. Natural light is ideal, so selecting a room with good lighting can enhance these shots. It’s also a moment for the couple to see how all their careful planning and chosen details come together on their big day. As a wedding photographer in Puerto Rico, I usually tell my couples that I am ‘annoyingly punctual’ because this is the time where I get as much creative juices flowing in an uninterrupted fashion. 

2. Getting Ready

Latvian wedding in Puerto Rico

     The preparation phase is a mix of candid and posed moments as the bride and groom get ready with their respective parties. This typically takes place a few hours before the ceremony and includes everything from hair and makeup for the bride to the groom adjusting his tie or putting on his suit jacket. Allow about 90 minutes to two hours for this part of the day, with the photographer switching between the bride and groom's locations to capture the excitement, nerves, and joy. It's also a good time to capture intimate moments like a bride reading a letter from the groom or a groom having a toast with his groomsmen. This stage is all about capturing the anticipation and emotion before the formal events of the day begin. One of the things I enjoy the most about being a Puerto Rico wedding photographer is, in fact, the bride and groom prep because I see it as a preface of what’s to come; an introduction to the characters, so to speak.

3. The First Look

April having fun with Kyle

     A first look is a private moment for the bride and groom to see each other before the ceremony. It usually takes place about two hours before the ceremony start time, offering an intimate space away from the crowd to share emotions without the pressure of an audience. This moment allows for raw, authentic reactions that are often very emotional and provide some of the most cherished photos of the day. The first look also helps to ease nerves and can be a practical choice for timelines, allowing couple portraits to be taken before the ceremony, freeing up time later for more mingling with guests. Allocate at least 20 to 30 minutes for this session, including the setup and the actual moment, which should be unhurried to allow the couple to savor this time together. Being a Puerto Rico wedding photographer, I know all the best spots in Old San Juan to do this, specifically the canopy in front of El Convento Hotel as seen above.

4. The Ceremony

Caribe Hilton Hotel, San Juan PR

     The ceremony is the heart of the wedding day and typically lasts between 20 to 45 minutes, depending on the type of service and any special rituals included. It’s crucial to account for the processional, readings, vows, ring exchange, and the first kiss, as well as the recessional. Coordination with the officiant is essential to ensure smooth transitions, especially if there are specific photo moments to capture like lighting a unity candle or exchanging personal vows. Make sure guests are aware of any phone or photo restrictions to keep the atmosphere focused on the couple. The ceremony is not just about the logistics but also setting the emotional tone, so a well-timed entry, clear instructions for guests, and smooth transitions can enhance the experience for everyone involved.

5. Family & Friends Portraits

Indian Destination Wedding, Condado Vanderbilt Hotel

     After the ceremony, it’s time for group portraits, which can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour depending on the number of combinations and the size of the families. A pre-determined shot list is invaluable here to keep things organized and efficient, minimizing the time guests are standing around. Start with large group shots and work your way down to smaller, more intimate combinations, which allows elderly guests or young children to be photographed early and then released. This segment often runs smoother when a family member or wedding planner helps to gather people quickly. Lighting and location are key; if possible, choose a spot near the ceremony site that offers shade and diffused light to avoid harsh shadows and squinting. One of the things I give out as homework as a professional photographer in Puerto Rico is providing me with what I call a ‘shot list’: essentially a list of groupings for both your family and friends so that we’re both efficient and effective with our time.

6. Private Couple Session

Angie & Willy at Copamarina Beach Resort

     This session is a chance for the couple to enjoy some quiet moments together away from the guests, usually after the ceremony or during cocktail hour. It’s an opportunity to capture romantic, intimate portraits without the pressure of a timeline looming over them. Allocate about 30 minutes for this session, but be flexible, as the mood and lighting can vary. A good photographer will guide the couple into natural poses that showcase their personalities and connection, making use of the venue’s best features. Whether it’s a stunning sunset, a charming garden, or an architectural backdrop, this session is about creating timeless images that reflect the couple's unique bond. It’s also a chance for the couple to breathe and savor the reality of being newly married. One of the best things that a couple can do for me as a photographer in Puerto Rico is arrange for a solid half hour with their wedding planner because some of the best pictures from the day are shot during this timeframe.

7. Cocktail Hour

Wedding Decor at the Royal Sonesta Hotel in San Juan, PR

     While the couple is taking private portraits, guests typically enjoy a cocktail hour. This is a time for light refreshments, mingling, and relaxation before the reception begins. It usually lasts about an hour and provides a great opportunity for candid photos of guests interacting, enjoying hors d'oeuvres, and exploring the venue. Consider live music or entertainment to keep the atmosphere lively. It’s also a good time for photographers to capture detail shots of the reception setup before guests take their seats. A well-planned cocktail hour allows guests to transition smoothly from the formality of the ceremony to the celebration of the reception, setting a relaxed and joyous tone for the evening. As as wedding photographer in Puerto Rico, it’s safe to say that while family and friends are cooling off during cocktail hour, I can usually be found taking this precious time with the couple for a private photo shoot.

8. Reception Entrances, First Dances, and Toasts

     The reception kicks off with grand entrances, where the wedding party and the newlyweds make their debut. This is usually followed by the first dance, which can be one of the most memorable parts of the evening. Allocate about 30 minutes for these opening events, including the entrance, first dance, father-daughter and mother-son dances, and toasts. Timing is key to keep the momentum flowing, and it’s important to coordinate with the DJ or band to ensure smooth transitions between each segment. Toasts are a highlight, offering heartfelt, often humorous insights into the couple’s journey. These moments are filled with emotion, providing rich opportunities for capturing reactions from both the couple and their guests. Destination weddings in Puerto Rico usually do not skip this step as it is one of the most anticipated because of how jovial it is in nature.

9. Dinner

Courtyard Marriott Isla Verde Wedding at Las Brisas

     Dinner service typically follows the toasts and is a time for everyone to relax and enjoy a meal together. Depending on the style of service—plated, buffet, or family-style—dinner can last anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour and a half. This is a quieter time in the reception, allowing guests to recharge and enjoy conversations. It’s also an opportunity for photographers to capture candid moments of guests enjoying themselves at the table. Ensure the meal service aligns with the overall flow of the evening; timing is crucial so that the evening doesn’t feel rushed or drag on too long. Couples should also plan to eat early in the service so they can visit tables or take a few more photos without missing the chance to enjoy their own meal. Admittedly, as a wedding photographer in Puerto Rico I usually refrain from taking a lot of pictures during the dinner portion of the wedding day because the last thing I’d like to capture is people chewing with their mouths full.

10. Reception Dancing

     Once dinner wraps up, the dance floor opens, and it’s time for the party to really get started. A well-timed transition from dinner to dancing keeps the energy up and guests engaged. Typically, this segment can last for a few hours, interspersed with other events like the cake cutting, bouquet toss, or any cultural traditions the couple wishes to include. The goal is to keep the dance floor lively and accessible, with a mix of music that caters to all ages and tastes. Coordinating with the DJ or band to maintain a fun and energetic atmosphere is key, as this is where many of the most joyful and candid moments of the day happen. The reception usually winds down with a grand exit or last dance, sending the couple off in style. One of my favorite style of photography for the reception is performing what’s called ‘shutter drag’ which is when I make an otherwise boring scenario seem lively with an in-camera technique as seen above. 

If you’d like to get in touch, feel free to inquire here.