Why I’m Obsessed with Confetti Shots on Wedding Days - Tips from a Newcastle upon Tyne Wedding Photographer

In 2026, it will mark two years since I was hired to photograph my very first wedding and I genuinely can’t believe how much I’ve learned about the rhythm, emotion, and moving parts of a wedding day.

As many of you know, I’m an American living in Britain, and British wedding days differ in lots of subtle (and not-so-subtle) ways from weddings back home. One of the biggest surprises for me? Confetti.

I’d never attended a wedding where confetti was thrown before moving to the UK and now I’m completely hooked. It’s routinely one of my absolute favourite moments to photograph. As a Newcastle-upon-Tyne wedding photographer, confetti shots are always a highlight of the day.

Why I love them?

Confetti shots are genuinely joyful and full of life. The formality of the ceremony melts away, the nerves disappear, and everyone is suddenly present, celebratory, and in the moment.

From a photographer’s perspective, they’re everything I could ask for: colour, movement, laughter, and energy. Captured with a documentary-style approach, confetti moments translate beautifully into photographs that feel alive and vibrant.

So, This blog is here to do two things. Firstly, to convince you to throw confetti on your wedding day (trust me, you won’t regret it). And secondly, to share some practical tips and tricks for incorporating this tradition seamlessly into your day, whether you’re in Newcastle upon Tyne or anywhere across the North East.

Secure the Confetti (and Then Get More)

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: you can never have too much confetti.

A generous handful per guest creates a lush, dramatic shower rather than a light sprinkle. Buy more than you think you’ll need and then add a bit extra.

Store confetti in baskets or buckets rather than tiny cones. It’s much easier for guests to grab big handfuls and throw with confidence, which makes all the difference for your photos.

A Little Organisation Goes a Long Way

Even if you’re planning a relaxed, documentary-style wedding day, the confetti moment benefits from a little organisation.

Often, your venue coordinator will help on the day — and as your photographer, I’m always happy to support and guide things too.

• Let guests know in advance that there will be a confetti toss after the ceremony, and where it will happen. Including this on your wedding website can be really helpful. For example:

  “Join us in celebrating our marriage by grabbing a handful of confetti after the ceremony and taking part in a joyful confetti toss.”

  You can even add that the quicker everyone gathers, the quicker the bar opens.

• Speak to your venue beforehand to understand the best location for confetti. Many venues in Newcastle and the North East have ideal outdoor spaces just outside the main entrance.

• Loop your photographer in. If your venue suggests a few possible locations, chat with your photographer so we can advise on what will look best from a light and background perspective.

• Double-check confetti rules. Most venues require biodegradable confetti, which is eco-friendly and photographs beautifully. I’d always recommend larger, brightly coloured paper confetti for maximum impact.

During the Toss: How to Make It Epic

This part is especially useful for photographers or venue teams guiding guests.

• Ask guests to throw confetti upward, not directly at faces this allows it to float down and creates a dreamy effect.

• Have guests stand fairly close together so there’s plenty of confetti filling the frame.

• A simple countdown helps everyone throw at the same time, leading to bold, celebratory shots.

Most importantly, encourage everyone to relax and enjoy it. The happiest confetti photos happen when people let go, laugh, and fully lean into the moment.

For couples:

• If you’re up for it, a quick kiss during the confetti toss is always magic.

• Don’t rush. Slow down, throw your arms up, laugh, and soak it all in.

• I also love when couples turn away from the camera and embrace their guests. It’s such a powerful, communal moment.

So… Are You Ready for Confetti?

If you’ve been on the fence, consider this your sign. Confetti brings colour, joy, and pure celebration to your wedding day — and to your photos.

As a North East / Newcastle-upon-Tyne wedding photographer, I can help make your confetti moment unforgettable.

Trust me: it’s always worth it.

TLDR: Confetti shots are one of the most joyful moments of a wedding day, taking place just after the ceremony when the nerves fade and the celebrations begin. As a Newcastle-upon-Tyne wedding photographer, I see how these moments create genuine laughter, colour and movement perfect for documentary-style wedding photography. The key is to fully commit: use plenty of biodegradable confetti, make it easy for guests to grab, and organise the moment just enough so it flows smoothly. Throw confetti upwards, slow down, laugh, maybe steal a kiss, and enjoy it these few seconds often become some of the most loved wedding photos in your gallery.