Besides the obvious of cameras, flashes, and SD cards. Here are three of my personal must haves on a wedding day! 

1. Liquid IV

If you often find yourself dehydrated or prone to heat exhaustion, Liquid IV can be your lifesaver. Liquid IV is powdered electrolytes that you can simply add into your water (and it’s delicious)  that’s designed to help rehydrate you faster than water alone.

Personally, it has been a game changer for me, especially since most of the weddings I photograph are held outdoors in high temperatures. 

A few years ago, I had a wedding on an extremely hot day. The majority of the photos were outside. While I managed to get through the ceremony and family portraits, the intense heat began to affect me during the wedding party portraits, and I started to feel faint even though I had been super vigilant about drinking lots of water that day.

I’m the type of person who prefers to push through rather than disrupt a couple’s special day but in this circumstance it was urgent and necessary. I politely asked to take a short break and com back to portraits and everyone was super kind and understanding. One of the bridesmaids gave me a liquid IV and within 15 minutes I was feeling like myself again. Highly, HIGHLY recommended.

Pro tip: Pack enough for you, your second photographer, and a bridesmaid or two. I’ve since given them to members of the bridal party who’ve also overheated during ceremonies and it’s such a good thing to have on hand.

2. Ear Plugs

If you’re not using ear plugs, you might be missing out on a simple yet effective solution! For those who experience post-wedding “hangovers” or migraines, I have a valuable tip to share. During the reception, especially when the dance floor is open, I always make sure to use ear plugs. This small adjustment has significantly improved how I feel the following day. Additionally, ear plugs are excellent for helping to prevent hearing loss.

3. Mini Sewing Kit

There’s nothing sweeter than hearing “my wedding photographer saved the day!”. Not going to lie – I take a lot of pride and enjoyment in that statement. One of the best things I started doing was carrying a mini sewing kit with my gear. I’ve seen straps tear, bustles break and just recently a bride with an incomplete zipper and we had to alter the entire back of the dress. 

I hope you found these helpful and let me know if you try any out!