Tips for Outdoor Wedding Lights at Your Intimate Wedding Party
There’s something undeniably magical about celebrating under the open sky. As the sun dips below the horizon and the first lights begin to glow, the atmosphere of your wedding completely shifts. It becomes softer, warmer, and more intimate. The right outdoor wedding lights don’t just illuminate your celebration; they shape its entire mood.
As a New Jersey wedding photographer who specializes in micro weddings and intimate gatherings, I’ve seen how beautifully the right lighting can enhance both the mood (and the images) of the day.
Whether you’re hosting a cozy backyard dinner, a garden soirée, or a rooftop gathering, thoughtful lighting can turn an ordinary space into something unforgettable. It highlights the details you’ve worked so hard to create and sets the stage for moments that feel cinematic — the kind you’ll want to relive every time you look back at your photos.
In this post, I’m sharing my favorite tips for creating outdoor wedding lighting that’s romantic, functional, and perfectly suited to your intimate celebration.
Why Outdoor Wedding Lights Matter More Than You Think
Lighting does more than brighten your space. It completely transforms how your wedding looks and feels. The right glow can make a backyard feel elegant, a rooftop cozy, or a garden like a scene from a movie.
As a New Jersey wedding photographer, I can tell you, good lighting makes all the difference. It softens faces, adds depth, and creates that warm, romantic glow every couple dreams of. Intentional lighting choices can completely shift how your wedding feels and how you’ll remember it for years to come. And yes, but it looks absolutely beautiful on film, too.
Know Your Lighting Options: String, Lanterns, Candles & More
When it comes to outdoor wedding lights, variety is your best friend. Mixing different light sources adds depth, texture, and warmth that creates that soft, layered glow that looks as beautiful in person as it does in photos.
String Lights: Classic and versatile, perfect for draping above tables or across open spaces. Their warm glow adds instant charm without overpowering the setting.
Lanterns: Hanging from trees or lining pathways, lanterns bring a romantic, old-world feel. Opt for amber bulbs or candles for cozy warmth.
Candles: Nothing compares to real candlelight. Cluster them on tables, steps, or windowsills. You can also use LED versions if your venue has flame restrictions.
Uplighting and Spotlights: A few well-placed lights aimed at trees or floral installations add depth and highlight focal points beautifully in photos.
Combining a few of these styles gives your space dimension and makes the lighting feel intentional rather than staged. Plus, this subtle difference photographs beautifully.
Tips for Lighting Different Outdoor Spaces (Backyards, Gardens, Rooftops)
Every outdoor wedding space has its own personality, and lighting needs. Whether you’re in a backyard, garden, or rooftop, the right setup helps the space feel cohesive and full of atmosphere.
Backyards
Layer your lighting. Mix overhead string lights with candles or lanterns for warmth and balance.
Use your surroundings. Wrap lights around trees or fences to make the space feel grounded.
Define key areas. Focus lighting on the dinner table, bar, and dance floor so guests gather naturally.
Gardens
Highlight natural beauty. Use small spotlights to illuminate trees or pathways without overpowering them.
Keep it soft. Warm-toned bulbs or fairy lights look more romantic than bright white ones.
Mind the power source. Use extension cords or battery-powered lights to avoid last-minute scrambling.
Rooftops
Think vertically. Hang string lights above seating areas to create intimacy against the open skyline.
Block wind and glare. Use weighted lanterns or enclosed candles for stability.
Play up reflections. Glass or metal surfaces help bounce light, adding glow without extra fixtures.
Each location offers its own charm. The goal is to work with the space, not against it. When the lighting feels natural to its surroundings, your celebration will too.
How to Set the Mood with Warm and Natural Light
The key to a romantic atmosphere is light that feels soft and natural. Harsh white bulbs can make even the prettiest setting feel sterile. Instead, aim for a warm glow that mimics candlelight.
For photos, that kind of warmth makes all the difference. Soft light flatters skin tones, adds depth, and captures the emotion of the moment without feeling staged. When your lighting blends naturally with its surroundings, your images reflect that same effortless beauty.
Lighting Tricks That Also Help Your Photos Look Better
Beautiful lighting doesn’t just set the mood, it also makes your photos come alive. A few small adjustments can completely transform how your images look once the sun goes down.
And if you’re still searching for someone who can capture that glow with care and artistry (hi!), you might love this post on how to choose a wedding photographer.
Use warm bulbs. Cooler light can make skin tones appear flat, while amber bulbs create a natural glow.
Avoid harsh overhead light. Side lighting adds dimension and avoids deep shadows.
Light your key moments. Keep extra light near where toasts or dances happen.
Skip colored lights. They distort tones and distract from your setup’s natural beauty.
Balance brightness. Use stronger lighting near activity zones and softer accents elsewhere.
Good lighting tells the story of your evening without distraction. When your setup feels warm, natural, and intentional, your photos will reflect that same timeless beauty.
What to Ask Your Venue or Planner About Outdoor Lighting
Before finalizing your lighting plan, check in with your venue or planner as they often know what works best for your space. A few quick questions can save stress (and help your photos look their best!).
What lighting is already available? Some venues include permanent string lights or uplighting.
Are there power sources outdoors? Knowing outlet locations helps you plan for cords or generators.
Are open flames allowed? If not, choose LED candles or enclosed lanterns for a similar glow.
When will the lights turn on? Automatic timers or dimmers help transitions feel seamless.
Can lights be adjusted for photos? Redirecting harsh light can make a big difference.
A little communication upfront goes a long way. With the right setup, your outdoor wedding lights will not only keep the night glowing, they’ll also make every photo feel as magical as the moment itself.
Bringing Your Outdoor Wedding Vision to Life
The right outdoor wedding lights don’t just brighten your evening, they transform it. When your celebration glows with warmth and intention, every detail feels more magical and every photo more alive.
As a New Jersey and NYC photographer, my favorite moments often happen under those soft lights. The laughter between courses, the quiet glances during a first dance, the way candlelight flickers against a loved one’s smile. Those are the images that stay with you.
If you’re planning an intimate outdoor wedding in New Jersey and want photos that capture that same glow and emotion, I’d love to help! Reach out to connect, and let’s start dreaming up a celebration that feels as luminous as your love.
Rachel Watkinson - Intimate Wedding & Portrait Photographer
Rachel Watkinson is a boutique wedding photographer specializing in intimate weddings, micro weddings, and elopements across Northern New Jersey and New York City. With a background in fine art photography from Pratt Institute, Rachel blends digital and film to create timeless, heartfelt imagery that celebrates love in its most authentic form.
She’s passionate about documenting life’s meaningful moments with a classic aesthetic and genuine care for every couple she works with. When she’s not behind the camera, you’ll likely find her creating something new (whether it’s through painting, ceramics, or home design). She’s always inspired by the beauty in connection and creativity.
Learn more about how Rachel can beautifully capture your wedding day and begin your photography experience here.