5 Tips for Your Yorkshire Summer Wedding – From a Yorkshire Wedding Photographer’s Perspective

Summer weddings are some of my absolute favourites to photograph - the light-filled days, the energy and (hopefully!) sunshine make every celebration feel special. But as many couples learn, summer in Yorkshire comes with its own beautiful quirks and challenges. So here are five tips to help you plan your summer wedding with confidence...

1. Think About Timing - Especially the Light

Beautiful summer light is one of brides and grooms’ biggest photo wishes. But Yorkshire sunshine can be pretty intense at midday, which can lead to squinty eyes and harsh shadows.

As your photographer, my favourite light of the whole day is late afternoon and early evening - the kind of glow that feels soft, warm and dreamy. Building in a little extra time around golden hour not only gives you stunning portraits, but it also means you’re not squinting in every single photo.

I always give my couples additional time for couples portraits later on in the day (or around 6–7pm in high summer), you’ll thank yourself when you see your gallery (see point 3).

2. Keep Cool & Hydrated!

Yorkshire summers can be warm but we also know they can flip from sun to drizzle in 10 minutes. The key to a smooth summer wedding day is comfort.

Think shade for guests between ceremony and drinks, chilled water stations, and somewhere cool to steal a moment together.

Bridesmaids in long dresses, grooms in wool suits and elderly relatives in full sun can all feel hot quickly - and when people are relaxed and cool, it makes for better photos and a happier dance floor later.

3. Plan a Pocket of Time for Portraits

This isn’t about rigid schedules or taking you away from your guests for ages - it’s about creating a beautiful, calm moment in the day just for the two of you.

Summer in Yorkshire gives us long evenings, especially in June and July - and that means that gorgeous golden light can stretch well into the night. Even 10–15 minutes around sunset can give you some of your most striking images - ones that feel romantic, soft, and full of warmth.

4. Think Fabrics & Footwear

This one isn’t technically about photography, but it absolutely affects how relaxed everyone looks in your photos.

Think breathable fabrics and sensible shoes that can handle grass, gravel paths or barn floors without drama. And have a backup pair of comfy shoes - high heels and long grass aren’t the best friends you think they are!

5. Expect Any Weather - We are in Yorkshire!

Here’s the truth: summer weddings in Yorkshire can bring sunshine, showers, wind and even a cheeky thunderstorm - sometimes all in one day.

But here’s the secret… A little rain doesn’t ruin your day - it adds atmosphere, drama and memories you’ll laugh about forever. A covered space, clear umbrellas for you and your guests, and a flexible timeline are all simple ways to embrace whatever the weather throws at you.

And honestly? Some of my favourite photos ever come from cloudy skies or that glow just after a passing shower - that soft light is pure magic.

Final Thoughts for Your Yorkshire Summer Wedding

Summer weddings are vibrant and light-filled and here in Yorkshire we get to celebrate them surrounded the most stunning landscapes of th Yorkshire Dales, moors and Yorkshire coast.

If you’re planning a summer wedding and want to make the most of your day - both in how it feels and how it photographs - these tips will help keep you relaxed, prepared and ready to enjoy every moment.

If you're looking for someone to capture your summer wedding memories, contact me here. I'd love to hear all about your plans.