What is a “day-after” session, and should you do one?

Considering a day-after session for your wedding photos? Discover the pros and cons to help you decide if it’s the right choice for capturing unique, intimate moments after your big day.

A “day-after” session is a post-wedding photoshoot that gives you the opportunity to capture beautiful, intimate moments as newlyweds—without the stress and time constraints of your actual wedding day. These sessions are a fantastic way to get creative, explore new locations, and make the most of your wedding attire in a relaxed setting. But like any decision in the wedding planning process, a day-after session has its pros and cons, and it’s important to consider whether it aligns with your vision for your wedding memories.

Pros of a day-after session:

• Relaxed atmosphere
  One of the greatest advantages of a day-after session is the laid-back, no-pressure environment. On your wedding day, there’s a tight schedule to stick to, and often things feel rushed. With a day-after session, there’s no time crunch—so you can take your time with each shot, laugh, play, and experiment creatively with your new spouse without feeling like you're missing out on other aspects of your day.

• A chance to explore unique locations
  Your wedding day might be filled with beautiful venues, but a day-after session allows you to go beyond that. You can visit locations that weren’t feasible before, such as a quiet, secluded beach, a lush forest, or an urban backdrop filled with modern charm. It's an opportunity to create a completely different vibe with unique settings that may not have fit into your wedding day timeline.

• Wardrobe freedom
  Many couples love the idea of wearing their wedding attire again for a day-after session—but that doesn’t mean you’re limited to just your wedding dress or suit. If you want to mix it up, you could choose an entirely different wardrobe to bring a fresh element to the shoot. Whether it’s a more casual outfit or a dress that fits the vibe of your chosen location, it’s a chance to wear something that feels just right for the moment.

• Weather flexibility
  Not everyone is lucky enough to have perfect weather on their wedding day. If rain or clouds dampened the wedding atmosphere, a day-after session gives you a second chance. Overcast skies or perfect golden hour lighting can provide soft, flattering light that’s ideal for photos. So even if you have unpredictable weather on the big day, having another opportunity to capture stunning images can feel like a huge weight off your shoulders.

• More intimate moments
  Wedding days can be filled with so much action, excitement, and guests that it can be hard to slow down and connect as a couple. A day-after session allows you to share more intimate, tender moments in a quieter setting, giving you space to soak in your new roles as a married couple. Without the hustle of a wedding day, you can enjoy each other’s company in a relaxed, natural way that often leads to more emotional and genuine photos.

Cons of a day-after session:

• Additional costs
  While a day-after session is often well worth the investment, it’s essential to factor in the extra expenses. You’ll need to cover photography costs, and if you’re planning to travel to a specific location, that may come with additional costs for transportation or accommodation. Also, if you want hair and makeup done again for the session, those are extra expenses to consider.

• Time commitment
  Fitting a day-after session into your schedule can be a challenge, especially if you’re traveling to a special location or have limited time between your wedding and honeymoon. It’s important to be realistic about how much energy and time you have for the shoot, as you may feel overwhelmed by the idea of fitting one more thing into your post-wedding schedule. It’s also important to make sure you’re both feeling rested and ready to enjoy the experience.

• Post-wedding fatigue
  After the excitement and emotional energy of your wedding day, you might find yourself feeling a little worn out. If you’re considering a day-after session, it’s important to acknowledge that you may not feel as energetic or in the mood for photos as you did on your wedding day. However, sometimes a relaxed and low-pressure shoot is just what you need to rejuvenate and relive some of the excitement from your wedding day.

Is a day-after session right for you?

A day-after session can be a wonderful addition to your wedding experience, but it’s not for every couple. It can be a fantastic way to extend the magic of your wedding day and capture more intimate and creative moments that you might not have had time for during the wedding itself. However, it's important to weigh the pros and cons, keeping in mind your schedule, budget, and how you feel post-wedding.

If you’re unsure whether a day-after session fits into your vision, discuss it with your photographer! They’ll be able to guide you through the decision process, share ideas for creative locations or concepts, and help you plan a session that complements your wedding photography in a way that feels meaningful.

It doesn’t have to be the day after

Despite the name, a “day-after” session doesn’t have to happen right after your wedding day! In fact, I offer these sessions as add-ons to my packages, and couples can schedule them anytime within six months of their wedding. This flexibility allows you to make the most of your session in a way that feels right for you.

Maybe you want to celebrate your first few months as newlyweds with a relaxed, intimate session that captures this exciting chapter of your lives. Or perhaps you’re planning to use the photos for something special—like holiday cards, an anniversary announcement, or even a creative way to share exciting news with family and friends (a baby announcement, perhaps?).

Whatever the reason, these sessions give you a chance to extend the magic of your wedding photography and create beautiful, meaningful images beyond the wedding day itself.

Ready to extend the magic?

If an “after” session sounds like the perfect way to relive your wedding memories and capture even more stunning moments, I’m your girl! Whether you want to slip back into your wedding attire, celebrate your first few months as newlyweds, or even use the session for a special announcement, let’s chat. I offer these sessions as add-ons to my packages, and you can schedule one anytime within six months of your wedding. Reach out to me to start planning something beautiful!