You want to collect as many guest photos as possible from your wedding, but how do you actually encourage people to take and share them?

Here are 12 proven tips to maximise the photos your guests capture and share on your big day.

Before the Wedding

1. Mention It on Your Wedding Website

Add a section to your wedding website about photo sharing. Explain how guests can contribute and why their photos matter to you. Something like:

“We would love to see your photos from the day! We will have QR codes on each table – just scan to upload your pictures to our shared album.”

2. Include a Note in Your Invitations

A small insert or line on your invitation can set expectations early:

“Cameras and phones welcome! Look for our photo sharing QR codes at the reception.”

3. Tell Your Wedding Party

Brief your bridesmaids, groomsmen, and close family. Ask them to take plenty of photos AND to encourage other guests to do the same. Leading by example works!

At the Ceremony

4. Create an “Unplugged” Balance

Some couples request an unplugged ceremony (no phones). If you do this, make sure to encourage photos at the reception. You can say:

“We kindly ask you to put phones away during the ceremony so you can be fully present. But please take ALL the photos you want at the reception!”

5. Have the Officiant Announce It

Ask your officiant to make a quick announcement at the end of the ceremony:

“The bride and groom would love you to capture photos throughout the day. You will find QR codes at your tables to share your pictures.”

At the Reception

6. Place QR Codes Strategically

Do not just put one QR code per table – place them everywhere guests might take photos:

Guest tables (essential)
Bar area
Photo booth or selfie station
Cake table
Dance floor entrance
Welcome sign

The more visible your QR codes, the more uploads you will receive.

7. Have Your MC Make Announcements

Ask your MC or DJ to mention the photo sharing at least twice:

Once early in the reception: “Do not forget to scan the QR codes on your tables to share your photos!”
Once later: “If you have not uploaded your photos yet, the QR codes are still on your tables. The couple would love to see your pictures!”

8. Use the Live Slideshow as Motivation

When guests see their photos appearing on the slideshow screen, they want to contribute more. Position the live slideshow where guests can see it and watch uploads roll in.

9. Make It a Game

Add an element of fun:

“First photo uploaded wins a prize!”
“Best candid shot wins a bottle of champagne”
Create a photo scavenger hunt list

Photo Opportunities to Highlight

10. Create Photo Moments

Certain moments naturally inspire photos. Make sure your QR codes are visible before:

First dance
Cake cutting
Speeches and toasts
Bouquet toss
Sparkler exit or send-off

Have your MC remind guests to have phones ready: “Get your phones out – you will want to capture this!”

11. Set Up Photo-Worthy Spots

Create areas that encourage photos:

A decorated photo backdrop
Interesting lighting (fairy lights, neon signs)
Props table
Scenic venue features

Place QR codes prominently in these areas.

Technical Considerations

12. Remove Barriers to Uploading

The easier you make it, the more photos you will get:

No app downloads: Use a service that works in the browser (like takeNplace)
No account creation: Guests should be able to upload instantly
Clear instructions: “Point your camera at the code” for those unfamiliar with QR codes
WiFi information: Share the venue WiFi password if guests need it

What to Avoid

Do Not Be Pushy

Mention photo sharing, but do not nag. Guests should feel invited, not obligated.

Do Not Make It Complicated

If guests need to download an app, create an account, or follow multiple steps, many will not bother. Keep it simple.

Do Not Rely on One Method

Some guests will use the QR codes, others might text you photos later, and some will post on social media. Embrace multiple channels, but make the QR code your primary collection method.

Realistic Expectations

Even with all these tips, not every guest will upload photos. Typically:

40-60% of guests will scan the QR code
Active uploaders will share 5-10+ photos each
You can expect 200-500 photos from a 100-guest wedding

That is still far more candid moments than your photographer alone will capture!

Get Started

Ready to collect your wedding memories? View takeNplace packages – our QR codes make uploading so simple that guests actually do it.

Have questions? Check our FAQ or email hello@takenplace-weddings.com.