If you’re new here—welcome! I’m Adara, the face behind Adara Jade Photography, and I adore capturing love stories with heart, soul, and a little bit of sparkle. One of my most-loved reels recently took off on Instagram, all about what to include in your detail photos—and I knew it was time to share a deeper dive right here on the blog. Here is the ultimate guide to detail photos on your wedding day.
Flatlay photos are more than just pretty pictures—they’re the opening chapter of your wedding gallery. These detail-rich images help tell your love story through carefully chosen items that reflect your day, your style, and your legacy.
Let’s talk about how to make them unforgettable.
What Are Flatlay Photos, and Why Do They Matter?
Flatlay photos are the beautifully styled images of your wedding day details—everything from your rings and invitation suite to your heirloom locket and signature perfume. They set the tone for your gallery, create visual storytelling, and often become your most shared images. These photos are your “wedding aesthetic” in a single frame.
And best of all? They’re uniquely yours.
What to Include in Your Wedding Detail Box
Here’s a checklist to help you curate the perfect items for your wedding morning. Place them in a shoebox or keepsake box ahead of time and let your photographer know where to find it when they arrive.
✨ The Ultimate Wedding Flatlay Checklist:
- Invitation Suite
Include at least two full sets with envelopes, stamps, and any custom details like wax seals or vellum wraps.
Rings
All three: your engagement ring + both wedding bands. (Pro tip: Clean them the night before!)
Ring Box
A velvet or linen ring box elevates the entire look. Bonus if it’s in your wedding color palette.
Perfume Bottle
Your wedding scent adds a romantic, personal touch—and looks stunning in photos.
Shoes
Especially if they’re stylish or sentimental (hello, something blue!).
Jewelry
Earrings, bracelets, necklaces, or hair accessories—all the sparkle, please!
Vow Books
Even if the pages are still blank, these look so sweet and meaningful in your flatlays.
- Florals
Ask your florist to set aside a few loose blooms and greenery stems for styling. - Heirlooms
Think: grandma’s handkerchief, a locket, a brooch—anything passed down that holds meaning. - Extras for Styling
Silk ribbon, vintage stamps, ring trays, or even a pretty dish can elevate your detail photos.
What Not to Include
Let’s keep the clutter out of your flatlays. You’ll want to skip:
- Hotel keys
- Receipts or loose change
- Generic plastic ring boxes
- Makeup or deodorant (save those for getting-ready shots)
Pro Tips for the Best Flatlay Photos
- Prep Ahead
Gather everything in one box the week of your wedding so nothing is forgotten on the big day. - Let Someone Know
Tell your planner or maid of honor where the box is so your photographer doesn’t need to hunt it down. - Trust Your Photographer
I bring styling boards, backgrounds, and little extras to elevate your details even further—so just bring your essentials and I’ll handle the rest!
Your Details Deserve to Be Remembered
The details may be small, but they hold so much meaning. They represent your story, your style, and the day you say “I do.” Whether it’s your grandmother’s ring or your favorite perfume, each piece contributes to the magic.
I hope this Ultimate Guide to Flatlay Photos was helpful for you! Want to make sure your wedding day is captured beautifully, from the big moments to the little details?
