Tips for Photographing Weddings at the Atlanta LDS Temple
The Atlanta, Georgia, LDS Temple is a gorgeous location where thousands of weddings take place each year. If you are preparing to photograph here, you have come to the right place. I am sharing my Atlanta temple expertise with you!
LDS Temple Weddings
If you are unfamiliar with LDS temples, they are a precious part of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints religion (also known as Mormons). If you are photographing a temple wedding, all of the photos will be taken outside of the building. The wedding, or sealing ceremony, is very private, and only invited members with a temple recommend will be allowed inside. You should have a designated contact who is communicating with you and can let you know when your couple is ready to walk out of the temple so that you don’t miss their exit.
While the couple is being sealed, you should focus on outside areas, treating the site with the utmost respect. The well-manicured grounds offer ample beauty for stunning portraits. When you get word that the ceremony is ending, set up near the doors, awaiting the newlyweds. While some LDS temples have several exit points to accommodate numerous wedding parties, the Atlanta temple only has one entrance/exit. Be sure to have family and friends gather here when it is time for the couple to come out. After the couple’s grand exit, get ready for group photos. Anticipate photographing everyone, then specific family groups based on the couple's requests. Be mindful of other weddings and photographers.
Best Photo Locations at the Atlanta Temple
The only place to get that iconic temple picture at the ATL Temple is right in front of the temple doors. This is difficult because this is the only entrance and exit, so there will be other patrons and wedding parties coming in and out of this area. It is also a tricky spot to photograph because the doors are facing east. Unless the wedding is in the afternoon on a cloudy day, the lighting will be very harsh in this location.
To achieve that soft lighting for newlywed portraits, you will need to go to the back side of the temple. There is a green garden space between the temple and the visitors center that is a good spot for bridals and newlywed portraits because it gives off such a pretty golden light.
The temple is also set up on a steep hill, so photo spots are limited. I like to use the front stairways and walkways creatively, such as having the couple walk towards me for dynamic couple shots.
Tips for Smooth Sailing
Utilize the temple's waiting room for touch-ups, flower storage, and guest waiting. Consider the visitor center as an alternative, but be mindful that it is a separate building, so it will be harder to communicate when it is time for the newlyweds to exit the front doors.
Due to limited temple photo options, suggest an off-site location for those cherished golden hour portraits. Schedule an additional 30 minutes at the chosen venue for wedding portraits that they will hang on their walls for years to come.
Unlike urban temples, the Atlanta temple doesn't offer a "city feel." If this is the vibe that the couple is looking for, encourage them to choose a different location for these portraits and include extra time in the wedding timeline to take them there.
With these insights, you're equipped to navigate the Atlanta LDS temple with confidence. Remember, it's not just about the setting; it's about the love story unfolding before your lens. So, embrace the challenge, focus on the emotions, and create timeless photographs that celebrate the couple's special day.
