How to have an unplugged wedding ceremony
Some couples encourage guests to take photos at their wedding – providing as many perspectives of the big day as possible – while others ask their guests to unplug and leave the photography to the professionals. If you’re leaning towards the latter, here are some polite ways to tell your guests, ‘no photos please!’
A case for an unplugged ceremony.
What is an unplugged wedding ceremony?
An unplugged ceremony is a wedding ceremony in which only the professional photographer is allowed to take photos. Guests are asked to switch their phones off and refrain from taking photos or videos during the ceremony.
Guests have always taken photos at weddings, and in the past disposable cameras on wedding tables have encouraged guests to get snap-happy. However, huge advances in technology – including low cost professional camera equipment and high-spec cameras on mobile phones – have meant that many guests now view the entire wedding though a camera lens.
While some couples embrace the trend for guest photography, asking guests to send them their photos and to share them on social networks, others feel that because they’ve paid a professional to take the wedding photos guests should put their cameras away. There is a growing trend for ‘unplugged’ weddings where guests are asked not to use cameras or mobile phones.
The benefits of an unplugged wedding ceremony
An unplugged wedding ceremony — where guests are kindly asked to put away phones and cameras — is becoming more and more popular, and for good reason. While everyone loves capturing memories, there’s something special about asking guests to be fully present for this once-in-a-lifetime moment.
Here are some of the biggest benefits of having an unplugged ceremony:
1. Genuine connection
Without screens between them and the moment, guests are able to truly connect with what’s happening. They can see your emotions, hear your vows clearly, and be part of the atmosphere without distractions. It creates a shared sense of presence that makes the ceremony feel even more meaningful.
2. Better professional photos
When guests stay unplugged, your professional photographer has a clear view of the action. No phones popping into the aisle, no flashes ruining a perfect shot, no guests blocking the big kiss. Your photos will reflect the ceremony authentically — with all eyes on you, not hidden behind a screen.
3. Protects the intimacy of the moment
Your wedding ceremony is one of the most personal and emotional moments of your life. By having an unplugged ceremony, you can keep the atmosphere more private and sacred, rather than having it instantly posted on social media. It gives you control over how, when, and where your special moments are shared.
4. Reduces stress for guests
Believe it or not, guests often feel pressure to capture the “perfect” photo or video during important moments. Removing that expectation allows everyone to simply relax, soak up the experience, and enjoy the ceremony without worrying about angles or settings.
5. Creates a calm, beautiful atmosphere
With no phones beeping, cameras flashing, or guests leaning into aisles for a shot, the ceremony flows more smoothly and feels more serene. There’s a noticeable shift in energy when everyone is focused on the same thing: celebrating your love story.
How to tell your guests you want an unplugged wedding ceremony
There are various ways you can politely ask guests not to take photos. Ideally you should ask your celebrant to inform your guests of the no-photos rule at the start of the ceremony. They could say something along the lines of:
“Please, turn off your mobile phones and put down your cameras. The photographer will capture how this moment looks — I encourage you all to capture how it feels with your hearts, without the distraction of technology.”
Or perhaps:
“The bride and groom have kindly requested that guests switch off their phones and refrain from using cameras. Sit back and enjoy the ceremony!”
You could also put a note in your wedding program or order or service, and then repeat the message on signs at your wedding reception. Perhaps something along the lines of:
“We ask you to kindly turn off your phones during the wedding and refrain from taking photos. We have professional photographers on hand to capture all the special moments and are excited to share their photos with you.”
If you feel unsure or uncomfortable about asking your guests to not take photos, here’s some advice.
An unplugged wedding?
If you’re having an unplugged wedding you need to be very clear with your guests about when they are and are not allowed to take pictures. Does the rule apply just to the ceremony or do you want them to keep their cameras tucked away for the reception too?
A great idea if you’re having an unplugged wedding is to create a couple of specific photo opportunities when guests are allowed to take pictures. After the signing of the register – once the professional photographer has taken their shots – you could invite guests to come forward and take their own photos. Similarly at the reception you could create a photo moment during the cake cutting, or after the first dance.
Many wedding guests simply don’t realise how intrusive or disruptive it is when they are continually taking photos. They’re probably thinking about getting a great shot of a special moment to share with you after the wedding. A polite request to put the cameras away and enjoy the wedding is probably enough to make them realise that they should leave the photography to the professionals.
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An unplugged ceremony isn’t about banning technology — it’s about making space for connection, emotion, and authenticity. With a gentle announcement at the start (or a cute sign at the entrance), you can set the tone for a heartfelt ceremony where everyone is fully present — and the memories last long after the moment ends.
