7 Things to Practice at Your Wedding Rehearsal (That Will Make Your Wedding Photos Look Amazing)

You’ve spent months planning every little thing — the timeline, the flowers, the playlist, even your emergency snacks (because hanger is real). But when it comes to your wedding day, the rehearsal is where all the moving parts come together — and where you can make or break how smooth, confident, and photogenic your ceremony actually feels.

As a wedding photographer, I’ve seen what happens when couples skip the little details… and when they take the time to practice them. Spoiler: the difference shows in your photos and your stress level.

Here are 7 things to practice at your wedding rehearsal to make sure your ceremony runs seamlessly and your photos look as magical as you imagined.

1. Walking Down the Aisle

Everyone thinks they know how to walk until they’re doing it in front of a crowd, with music, and possibly tears. Slow it down. Take deep breaths. Keep your shoulders relaxed and your eyes up. Think “confident stroll,” not “Target run.” Your wedding photographer will thank you when every frame looks graceful and intentional.

2. The Hand-Off (When A Loved One Gives the Bride Away)

This part can feel awkward if it’s not discussed ahead of time. Are you doing a hug? A kiss? A handshake? A nod? Whatever feels natural — plan it now. Let your officiant know the cue, so there’s no weird shuffle or overlapping movements. Smooth transitions make for beautiful, emotion-filled photos instead of “Wait—am I supposed to go now?” faces.

3. How to Hold Your Bouquet

Here’s the golden rule: hips, not tits.Your bouquet should sit low — around your hip bones — not up under your chin. When you hold it too high, it hides your dress and stiffens your posture. Lower it just a touch, bend your elbows slightly, and suddenly you’ll look more relaxed, elegant, and camera-ready. Practice this a few times so it becomes muscle memory on the big day.

4. The Kiss (and the Three-Mississippi Rule)

After the “I do,” you finally get to seal it with a kiss — so make it count. Hold your kiss for three Mississippis. It feels like forever in the moment, but it gives your photographer enough time to get multiple angles without shouting “again, please!” It’s romantic, it’s cinematic, and it’s one of those photos you’ll frame forever.

5. Practice the Music Timing

Don’t skip this one. Actually play your processional and recessional songs during rehearsal and walk to the beat. It helps your coordinator and DJ time entrances perfectly — and it keeps the vibe from getting rushed or off-tempo. Hearing your song in the space also helps calm nerves (and gives you a sneak peek of how emotional it’ll feel).

6. The Dip (If You’re Doing One)

The dip looks effortless when it’s practiced — and chaotic when it’s not. Decide who’s leading, find your balance, and make sure it feels natural. The key: trust your partner, support each other’s weight, and keep your faces close. Whether it’s at the altar or halfway down the aisle, a smooth dip shot is pure magic in your wedding gallery.

7. Your Recessional Exit (aka Don’t Sprint Like You’re Escaping a Fire)

This is your first walk as a married couple — it’s meant to feel joyful, not rushed. Walk slowly, look at your guests, laugh, wave, maybe throw in a spontaneous kiss. The slower pace gives your photographer time to capture the energy, the cheers, and that just-married glow. This is your “we did it” moment — don’t race through it.

Final Thoughts: Practice Makes Perfect (and Photogenic)

Your wedding rehearsal isn’t just about remembering when to walk — it’s about creating space for confidence, emotion, and flow. These tiny details shape your experience and your photos.

If you’re still in the planning stages and want more real, practical wedding advice from a photographer who’s seen it all (and probably tripped over a veil or two), check out more tips on my wedding blog or reach out for a consult.

Because the best photos don’t happen by accident — they happen when preparation meets a whole lot of love (and maybe a well-timed dip).

xoxo Rachel