Not long ago, we looked at couples who make Instagram a big part of the wedding by creating custom hashtags to document the big day.
But, there are some who are keeping Instagram and all phones out of the picture all together, creating an "unplugged" wedding. So, what's the main concern leading couples to consider a ban on phones at the altar? Phones and cameras tend to get in the way of professional wedding photos.
"There is nothing more frustrating than having a guest be my shadow so that they can try to take a picture, too, with their phone," says Drew Cason, owner of central Arkansas-based Drew Cason Photography. "Occasionally, I catch a guest's flash going off and it can ruin my shot."
Another reason for the simple request is that they want guests to fully be present at the wedding, without the distraction of a cell phone.
"Plus, too often [guests] are too worried about 'getting the shot' so they can put it on their Facebook page or on Instagram that they are only half-heartedly enjoying the actual wedding," Cason adds.
So, if you're planning on keeping your big day "unplugged," you can provide a phone check at the door (like a coat check) or even add a note to your wedding website, ceremony program or invitation asking guests to refrain from taking photos or video. You can word it nicely — something like: “We want you to truly enjoy the wedding, so we ask that you please refrain from taking photos or video today and just have fun!”
So, what do you think? Do you think it's OK to ban guests from using their phones and cameras? How about just for the ceremony? Sound off in the comment box below or on our Facebook or Instagram!
