by After you finish reading this paragraph, just for a moment close your eyes and take yourself to a place filled with vibrant colours, rhythmic beats of traditional music and joyous celebration – That’s what Kerala wedding photography is all about.
Capturing these moments for what they are and allowing you to relive it as many times as you want to! From the intricate details of the bride’s gold jewellery to the emotional exchange of the garlands, it allows you to relive every moment frame by frame.
What makes Kerala wedding photography truly special is the blend of traditional and modern techniques. From what I have observed during my research is that photographers in Kerala are very creative and adept at capturing both posed and spontaneous moments and therefore are successful in creating a comprehensive and heartfelt visual narrative.
When hiring a wedding photographer in Kerala, look for this combination of expertise and cultural understanding for this is what sets the best wedding photography in Kerala apart from the rest.
Understanding Kerala Weddings
Every wedding in Kerala is a beautiful amalgamation of tradition, culture, and vibrant celebrations. As someone who is passionate about capturing these once in a lifetime moments.
I’ve found that having a deep understanding of the rituals and customs of the couples is essential for wedding photography.
I believe that in order to ensure that you hire the best Kerala wedding photographers, you must dive deep into the essence of Kerala weddings and what makes them so unique.
Although, you must be aware of every ritual and custom, I feel that going through it again is important as you might want to discuss every detail with your photographer and you can take reference from here.
If you’re interested in a more diverse portfolio then you might also consider the beauty of Tamil Wedding Photography which beautifully shares many similarities yet offers unique traditions and ceremonies.
Cultural Significance
Every ritual and tradition in Kerala weddings hold a deep, special meaning and cultural significance and they are not to be overstated. These rituals have been passed down through generations and reflect upon the deep-rooted cultural heritage of Kerala.
- Nischayam Ceremony: In Kerala weddings this is the formal engagement. This is where the families come together to announce the wedding and it makes for perfect candid photography moments.
- Mehendi and Haldi: Mehandi and Haldi are pre-wedding ceremonies filled with joy and colour. Talk to your photographer and ask them to capture these moments with discreetness to get the best laughter out of everyone and also do not forget to get your pictures clicked in your best traditional attire.
- Oonjal Ceremony: Oonjal ceremony symbolises the start of the new life of the couple. This is where the newlywed couple is seated on a swing and is rocked back and forth by female family members of the family. The best wedding photographers in Kerala can create some really stunning visuals at this ceremony.
Key Rituals and Traditions
Like I said before, having an understanding of the key rituals is very important for a successful Kerala wedding photography as they are not just rituals but the heart of the wedding and are filled with emotional and photogenic moments.
Some of the rituals and traditions you must discuss with your photographers are:
- Thalikettu: Thalikettu is one of the most important and main wedding rituals where the groom ties the ‘thali’ around the bride’s neck. It’s a moment that’s brimming with emotions and is perfect for close-up shots.
- Saptapadi: Another important ritual is the Saptapadi where the couple takes seven steps together and makes vows to each other. This is a moment filled with meaning and using candid wedding photography can help the photographer capture the genuine expressions of the couple.
- Exchange of Garlands: The exchange of garlands is a tradition as beautiful as it can be. This is where the bride and groom exchange the floral garlands. The atmosphere is filled with vibrant colours and there’s happiness on everyone’s face which makes for great high-definition photos.
These are just glimpses of a Kerala wedding, there is a lot more than this and it is very possible that your family also has some rituals and traditions of its own that you will have to discuss with your Kerala wedding photographer.
Nevertheless, each ceremony has its own meaning, importance and significance. They also offer a unique opportunity to capture the very essence of the wedding and your photographer must be aware about it.
For those of you who are interested in exploring other vibrant cultural weddings, my article on Bengali Wedding Photography will help you learn about the rich Bengali tradition and visual storytelling.
Pre-Wedding Photography
Now that we are clear with the basics and essentials of Kerala wedding photography. It’s time we discuss the photography itself.
I’ll walk you through all the three types of wedding photography i.e. pre-wedding photography, wedding photography and post-wedding photography. My goal here is to make you completely aware about everything related to wedding photography so let’s start with pre-wedding photography.
Pre-wedding is a time for creativity and expression, it allows us to explore various themes and locations that reflect upon your personalities. For me, pre-weddings are one of the most exciting aspects of wedding photography.
Importance of Pre-Wedding Shoots
Don’t make the mistake of thinking that pre-wedding shoots are just a thing of the west, although they are but they are much more than that.
They are a way to document the couple’s love story in a very relaxed way in intimate settings. Furthermore they also help the couple warm-up for the big day.
Most important of all, these sessions help build a rapport between the couple and the photographer, everyone gets to know each other and become comfortable which is very crucial for natural and candid shots on the wedding day.
And let’s not forget that the images from these shoots often become cherished memories and are preserved for lifetime. It captures the excitement and anticipation of the upcoming wedding.
Popular Pre-Wedding Locations In Kerala
The land of Kerala is blessed with stunning landscapes which makes it a paradise for pre-wedding photography.
From the serene backwater of Alappuzha to the lust tea plantation of Munnar each location has its own unique backdrop. Let’s not forget about the beaches in Kovalam and Varkala which provide for a romantic setting.
If you are someone who wants a touch of royalty and elegance in their pre-wedding shoot then the historic architecture in Kochi would be the best choice for you.
Choosing the right location is very important as it will set the mood for the shoot and it must match with your personality and vision, it will help you in creating photos and videos that are truly unforgettable.
- Backwaters of Alappuzha: Serene and picturesque.
- Tea Plantations of Munnar: Lush greenery and scenic views.
- Beaches in Kovalam and Varkala: Perfect for romantic sunset shots.
- Historic Architecture in Kochi: Adds an elegant and timeless feel.
To see how other cultures celebrate their love, you might find this guide on Marathi Wedding Photography insightful.
Themes and Attire
The theme and attire for your prewedding is something that you should give thoughts over. It can be Traditional Kerala attire like sarees and mundus, they are great for adding a cultural touch. On the other hand you can also go for modern outfits to create a contemporary feel.
Most of the couples decided to go for themed shoots like vintage couple photography, bohemian couple photography, Night couple photography etc. The most popular among the couples is the cinematic style.
The main thing to keep in mind while deciding the theme and attire is to incorporate elements that resonate with your story and personalities. Doing this will help you be yourself and get photos and videos that are both beautiful and meaningful.
Photography Style
For pre-wedding photography, I often prefer a mix of candid and posed shots. Candid shots capture genuine emotions and interactions which are often the most heartwarming and in my opinion pre-wedding is mostly about capturing candid moments.
Posed shots, on the other hand, allow for creativity and styling which often results in visually stunning images that you can’t capture candidly. You must ask your photographer to take the following three types of photos on your pre-wedding.
- Candid Shots: Capture genuine emotions and interactions.
- Posed Shots: Allow for creative styling and beautiful compositions.
- High-Definition Photography: Ensures every detail is captured perfectly, making the images look breathtakingly beautiful.
- Black and White Photography: Black and white photography is a great way of adding a timeless feel and classical touch to your photos.
Combining and using all these styles together ensures that you get a diverse collection of photos that tell a complete story of your pre-wedding day. Furthermore, using techniques like high-definition photography ensures every detail is captured perfectly which helps in making the images look breathtakingly beautiful.
Kerala Wedding Photography
Pre-wedding just gives a glimpse of what is about to come. The pinnacle of all the preparations is the wedding day! Capturing it perfectly will make all the difference between a good wedding album and a great wedding album.
Kerala wedding photography thrives on the vibrant rituals and emotions that unfold throughout the day. My goal, when I am capturing a wedding, is always to document these moments in a way that tells the story of the couple beautifully and authentically.
Following are some moments that you must discuss with your photographer and tell them about it, in case they are not already aware of it, so that they don’t miss capturing any memorable moment.
Kerala wedding photography
Home Rituals
The wedding day at a Kerala wedding usually starts at the couple’s homes where some of the most significant rituals take place and each of these moments is ripe with opportunities for stunning and meaningful photos.
Nischayam Ceremony:
Nischayam Ceremony is the formal engagement ceremony that is held at the home. It is often filled with emotional exchanges and blessings. This is a great time for candid photos that capture the family bond.
Mehendi and Haldi:
Mehandi and haldi are two pre-wedding ceremonies that are filled with colour and joy. They are filled with energy and happiness. From intricate henna designs to the playful application of the turmeric paste. They make for perfect close-up and detailed shots.
Oonjal Ceremony:
Oonjal is one of those functions that is unique to Kerala weddings. During the function the couple sits on a beautifully decorated swing which symbolises their new journey together.The vibrant decorations of Oonjal and the couple’s expressions make for some of the most picturesque moments.
Venue Decoration
The venue of the wedding in itself is a feast for the eyes. They showcase the culture of Kerala in a way that nothing else can.
If you have something that you have customised and is there specially because you wanted it to be there then do convey about it with the photographer and let them know that you want that particular decoration to be in the wedding video and album.
Traditional Décor:
The traditional decor at a Kerala wedding includes flowers, banana leaves and traditional lamps. These elements are used extensively in most Telugu weddings. Having a detailed photo and video of these elements adds to the richness of your wedding story.
Mandap Setup:
The mandap is the place where the main wedding rituals occur and it is usually a focal point. Photographing the intricate designs and the setting before the ceremony begins can create stunning visuals and add to the depth of the story.
Bride and Groom Preparation
The preparation phase is one of my favorite times to capture. There’s a certain magic in the air as the bride and groom get ready for their big moment.
Attire and Jewellery:
Brides in Kerala prefer to wear gorgeous silk sarees and gold jewellery for their big day while the grooms don the traditional mundus. Portraits in the wedding dress and close-up shots of these details help in highlighting the richness of Kerala’s wedding attire.
Moments of Reflection:
If you want a touch of emotions in your photos then do ask your photographer to capture the moments of quiet reflection that you have with yourself, these candid moments can never be scripted but they hold so much story to them that you just can’t afford to miss these moments.
Arrival of the Groom:
The arrival of the groom and bride is one of the most vibrant and celebratory moments in a Kerala wedding. Traditionally, the groom arrives first in a procession often with music and dancing which is a fantastic opportunity on its own to capture candid shots.
Arrival of the Bride:
Moments after the groom’s entry is the bride’s turn for entry. This gives even more opportunity for candid moments, the groom’s reaction when he sees the bride for the first time in her wedding dress is something that you don’t want to miss. Similarly the bride’s tears of joy and smile as she sees the groom is not worth missing as well.
Main Wedding Ceremony
Everything till now was setting up this moment – the main wedding ceremony.
It is filled with rituals that are both beautiful and profound. Each moment and each part of the wedding ceremony offers unique opportunities for Kerala wedding photography.
Thalikettu:
Thalikettu is a significant moment, it is during thalikettu that the groom ties the ‘thali’ around the bride’s neck. Make sure that you tell your photographer in advance that you want him to capture everyone’s emotions during the ceremony as these are crucial moments of the wedding.
Saptapadi:
This is where you and your partner take seven steps together and each step symbolises a vow. The ritual is visually and emotionally rich and is perfect for a series of detailed shots that can be cherished down the memory lane.
Exchange of Garlands:
I don’t think I have to mention how significant the exchange of garlands is! It is filled with joy, laughter and playfulness. It makes for some of the best candid photos of the whole wedding day.
Post-Wedding Rituals
For a complete and impactful wedding story, post-wedding rituals are equally important. They offer great opportunities for memorable photos.
Sadhya:
Sadhya is the traditional wedding feast. It is a grand affair and showcases the variety of dishes in a Kerala wedding. If done correctly then capturing the joyful faces of guests enjoying the feast will help in adding another layer to the wedding story.
Just make sure that you tell your photographer not to take awkward pictures of your guests when they are eating that would ruin things quickly!
Vidaai:
The bride’s farewell is a moment filled with heavy emotions. Capturing the tears of the mother, the smile that they try to put on to give more power to the bride as she bids goodbye to her family adds a touching end to the wedding day story.
Imagine capturing the bride’s brother as he cries seeing her sister go away, that will be a photo that the family will cherish for a lifetime.
Each of these elements when used correctly can make for a great Kerala wedding photography. My approach when doing wedding photography is to blend into the background and capture genuine emotions and interactions.
This way I am able to ensure that every photo tells a part of the larger story and that the couple can relive their wedding day in vivid detail, cherishing each moment captured through my lens.
Post-Wedding Photography
Now that we are done with the pre-wedding and the wedding day photography it’s time to give a closer to the story and there’s nothing better than Post-wedding photography to give a closer to a wedding story.
Post-wedding photography is a beautiful way of capturing the newlywed couples in a relaxed setting, free from the hustle and bustle of the wedding day. Simply put, it helps in creating more personal and creative images which reflect the couple’s new journey together.
Newlywed Shoot
Newlywed shoot symbolises the new beginning of the couples, it is all about capturing the couple in serene and picturesque locations and Kerala’s diverse landscapes offers a plethora of options for wedding couple outdoor photography.
- Popular Locations:
- Backwaters: The calm and scenic backwaters of Alappuzha and Kumarakom provide a perfect backdrop for romantic shots.
- Beaches: Beaches like Kovalam and Varkala offer stunning sunset views, ideal for dreamy photos.
- Hills and Plantations: The tea plantations in Munnar and the Western Ghats are perfect for capturing the couple amidst nature’s beauty.
These shoots allow the couple to be more natural and comfortable which results in candid and heartfelt photos.
Relaxed and Intimate Settings
Like I mentioned before, post-wedding photography takes place in more relaxed and intimate settings which allows for a more personal touch to the story. These sessions can either be themed or simply focus on the couple enjoying their time together.
- Casual Attire: The couple can opt for casual and comfortable clothing, reflecting their everyday selves.
- Themed Shoots: Themes like vintage, bohemian, or even a hobby they share can add a unique touch to the photos.
- Candid Moments: Capturing the couple in candid moments, like a cozy breakfast or a stroll in the park, adds a natural and genuine feel to the photos.
- Trash the Dress Shoot: Post-wedding also allows for a great Trash the Dress session as the wedding is already done and the couple can risk their dress.
One of my favourite post-wedding shoots was with a LGBTQ couple in Delhi who loved cycling. We did a shoot at sunrise. I loved capturing them cycling along the Lodhi Art Street. The combination of their joyful expressions and the serene morning light made for some truly memorable photos.
If you are interested in learning more about LGBTQ wedding photography, then check out my article on Indian Lesbian Wedding Photography. In the article, I have gone in great depth of how to successfully capture a LGBTQ wedding.
Personalised Touch
Post-wedding photography is all about adding a personal touch to the photos which makes them special and meaningful.
This can be done by incorporating elements that are significant to the couple or by choosing a location that holds sentimental value for them, for example the place they travelled together for the first time, the first gift they shared with each other, etc.
- Incorporate Hobbies: If the couple shares a hobby, such as hiking or cooking, incorporating these into the shoot can make the photos unique and personal.
- Sentimental Locations: Choosing locations that are meaningful to the couple, like where they had their first date or got engaged, adds an emotional layer to the photos.
- Props and Accessories: Using props, like a favourite book or musical instrument, can also add a personalised element to the shoot.
Check out this detailed guide on post-wedding photography to learn about it in detail.
Comparison of Pre-Wedding, Wedding Day, and Post-Wedding Photography
Let’s do a quick recap and learn about all the three types of photography that we just discussed. Remember, each type of photography has its unique charm and significance in Kerala wedding photography.
Understanding the differences and planning accordingly will help you ensure that every phase of the wedding journey is beautifully captured.
| Aspect | Pre-Wedding Photography | Wedding Day Photography | Post-Wedding Photography |
| Purpose | Captures the couple’s love story before the wedding | Documents the key moments and rituals of the wedding day | Celebrates the couple’s new journey in a relaxed, intimate setting |
| Locations | Scenic locations like backwaters, beaches, plantations | Wedding venues, decorated mandap, homes for rituals | Picturesque and meaningful places such as backwaters, hills, beaches |
| Themes | Traditional, modern, casual, or creative themes | Traditional and cultural settings | Personalized themes reflecting the couple’s interests and relationship |
| Attire | Mix of traditional and modern outfits, reflecting the couple’s personality | Traditional bridal and groom attire, including sarees, gold jewellery, and sherwanis | Casual and comfortable clothing, themed outfits |
| Photography Style | Candid, posed, and artistic shots | Candid moments, traditional poses, close-ups, drone shots | Candid, intimate, and creative shots |
| Key Moments | – Romantic couple poses- Scenic backgrounds- Fun and relaxed interactions | – Nischayam, Mehendi, Haldi- Thalikettu, Saptapadi- Bride and groom prep- Venue décor | – Relaxed and candid couple shots- Personalized themes- Meaningful locations |
| Advantages | – Sets a romantic tone for the wedding- Provides a practice run for the couple | – Captures essential and significant moments- Documents cultural traditions | – Reflects the couple’s personality and relationship- Allows creative freedom |
| Challenges | – Weather dependency for outdoor shoots- Need for location permits | – Managing large crowds and time constraints- Capturing every crucial moment | – Coordinating schedules post-wedding- Choosing locations that are meaningful |
Each type of photography has its unique charm and significance in Kerala wedding photography. By understanding the differences and planning accordingly, you can ensure that every phase of the wedding journey is beautifully captured.
Choosing the Right Photographer
Choosing the right photographer can make or break your Kerala wedding photography. Wedding photos and videos are something that you will treasure for a lifetime and therefore finding someone who can capture your special day in a beautiful way becomes very important.
Here are some important key points that you should consider when choosing the best wedding photographer in Kerala.
Experience and Style
When it comes to Kerala wedding photography, experience and style are two things that you just can’t ignore.
The unique cultural aspect and vibrant traditions that each Kerala wedding has are incredible and it requires a photographer who really understands and appreciates these nuances.
- Extensive Experience: Ensure the photographer has experience in Hindu Kerala wedding photography or the specific type of wedding you are planning.
- Style Consistency: Look for a variety of shots in their portfolio, including candid moments, traditional poses, and detail shots. This consistency indicates their ability to capture different aspects of the wedding beautifully.
Portfolio Review
Every professional wedding photographer has their own portfolio, showcasing their unique style and past work. Reviewing a portfolio is one of the best ways to gauge the photographer’s skills and style. Look for consistency in quality and creativity across different weddings they have shot.
- Diverse Portfolio: A diverse portfolio demonstrates the photographer’s versatility and expertise in various settings and lighting conditions.
- Quality of Work: Pay attention to the quality and creativity of their photos. Consistent high-quality work across different weddings is a good indicator of a skilled photographer.
Personal Connection
Building up a personal connection with your photographer will make the difference between day and night in your photos.You need to feel comfortable with your photographer since they will be with you through the most intimate and emotional moments of your wedding day.
- Meet in Person: Schedule a meeting or a video call to get to know your potential photographer. Discuss your expectations and see if they are willing to accommodate your specific requests.
- Good Rapport: A good rapport can make a significant difference in the final photos. Feeling at ease with your photographer will result in more natural and genuine shots.
Packages and Pricing
Considering the wedding photography packages in Kerala is equally important. Different photographers offer different packages and pricing based on their experience and expertise. Make sure to choose a photographer whose package aligns with your budget and includes all the services that you desire.
- Package Comparison: Compare the wedding photography packages in Kerala offered by different photographers. Understand what each package includes and choose one that fits your budget and needs.
- Value for Money: Look for packages that offer good value for money and include essential services like album design and video highlights.
As a passionate wedding photographer who has been capturing the emotions of a wedding day for years, I take pride in my ability to seamlessly blend traditional and contemporary styles.
If you are looking for someone who can capture your special day, the way you have envisioned it then feel free to reach out to me (Mihir Soni) through mail
mihirsoni.photography@gmail.com or WhatsApp me at +91 6393168551. I would love to discuss your vision and come up with a plan to make it a reality.
Conclusion
Kerala wedding photography is a challenging yet beautiful way of capturing the rich tradition, vibrant colours and the heartfelt emotions of your special day. Everything is detailed whether its the rituals, the stunning attire of the bride and groom or the scenic location of the shoot, each moment adds to the story in its own unique way.
By doing a thorough research and choosing a photographer who understands your vision and can make it a reality. You can ensure that these once in a lifetime moments are captured perfectly.
Remember, a great wedding photographer is one who can make you feel comfortable, capture your genuine emotions and create timeless images for you.
Here’s to celebrating your love story through the lens and creating memories that will be cherished forever.
FAQs
How much does a wedding photographer charge in Kerala?
The cost for a wedding photographer varies widely, typically it ranges from INR 50,000 to INR 5,00,000 per day, depending on the photographer’s experience, reputation, work and the package selected.
What is the budget for weddings in Kerala?
A normal wedding in Kerala can cost somewhere between INR 15,00,000 to INR 70,00,000, with high-end weddings costing significantly higher with no upper cap limit. The high-end weddings can cost up to several crores rupees as well.
What is a normal wedding budget?
A normal wedding budget in India can range from somewhere between INR 10,00,000 to INR 80,00,000. It is subjective and depends on the scale and location of the wedding.
How much does a wedding hall cost in Kerala?
The cost of a wedding hall for one day in Kerala typically falls in between the range of INR 50,000 to INR 3,00,000. It can be less or higher depending on the venue and the location.
What is the cost of food for wedding in Kerala?
Catering costs for a wedding in Kerala generally range from INR 500 to INR 4,000 per plate. It will highly depend on the menu, the caterer and the service style that you decide to choose.