Over the past 12 years of working full-time as a wedding photographer, I’ve had my fair share of removing distractions and imperfections to make sure every photo shines in the final gallery. But hands down, the most frequently photoshopped element in my images? The officiant. This is especially true in first kiss and aisle recessional shots. While many officiants do step aside, they often don't move quite far enough to fully clear the frame. I genuinely appreciate their role and all they do for the couple, but let's be honest—those photos are just better when it’s just the couple in the spotlight. So, I’m always happy to use my Photoshop magic to make them disappear. After all, who needs the head of a third wheel in that perfect shot, right?
Something to consider for your ceremony: have the officiant perform from the side. It’s a great option, especially if you don’t need a microphone. A microphone can be another obstacle for a wedding photographer trying to capture close-up shots during the vows. But let’s face it—your guests want to hear your vows, especially those who might be hard of hearing. Without a mic, many will miss the moment entirely. If you do decide to use one, I recommend a handheld microphone—wired is best to avoid interference or dropouts. And please, no mic stands! They tend to get in the way of the close up shots.
If you have a videographer, they’ll likely mic you up with a small lavalier mic, which is almost invisible. You clip it onto your lapel or collar, and there’s no need for a stand if the officiant prefers to keep their hands free.