3 Rules for Posting Wedding Pictures After the Big Event (2024)

• Wedding Ideas & Advice
• Wedding Photography

It's one thing to upload a photo of the bride before she's even walked down the aisle (a huge no-no!), but what about at the end of the evening—is that cool? With the help of expert Diane Gottsman, we answer this burning etiquette question and offer more sound advice on the common yet seldom discussed topic of posting wedding pictures on social media after the wedding.

Ask for Permission First

According to Gottsman, guests should never post pictures of the newlyweds until they get the go-ahead. Unless stated otherwise (for example, there's a wedding hashtag sign encouraging guests to Instagram photos), it's up to the couple to post the first picture, which also includes the wedding venue and fellow guests. "There's always a chance that feelings could get hurt when someone sees posts from the big day, and they realize they weren't included," she says.

Don't Upload Any Potentially Embarrassing Photos

This goes for both the couple and other wedding guests too. You can take pictures of your child if they're part of the wedding or even a selfie of you and your spouse, but don't post any pictures of guests gone wild on the dance floor or anything that would make someone feel uneasy, warns Gottsman. "Certainly don't tag anyone without their permission."

Try Not to Overshare

Yes, we know it's tempting to post every single picture your photographer sends you because, of course, they're all freaking awesome. However, refrain from bombarding your friends and family with a billion wedding-related photos all at once (and tell Mom to do the same). Otherwise, you may find yourself de-friended or unfollowed real quick. Instead, narrow down your favorites and create a wedding album on Facebook or share different shots over the course of the year. We see lots of #tbt pics in your future.