• The outdoors can become a stunning and natural background for your wedding photos.wedding image by Alison Bowden from Fotolia.com
  
  The outdoors offers a variety of backdrops, atmospheres and themes to incorporate into your wedding. Two things to keep in mind when planning an outdoor wedding are the weather and nature. The weather is unpredictable, so a backup plan or simply a stockpile of umbrellas are advisable. In addition, be sure to bring enough bug spray for the wedding party, just in case. Be advised that public settings such as parks or gardens may require a permit and/or fee to use the space for a ceremony.
  
  

Vineyards

• Vineyards offer a rustic but romantic environment in which to exchange vows. If the owners allow it, set up bistro-style, wrought-iron chairs for the guests to sit and watch the ceremony. The sprawling rows of grape vines will be reminiscent of an old European village and provide a stunning background for wedding photos. The vineyard theme can be easily referenced in your wedding reception and ceremony by focusing on the deep reds, purples, greens and golds of the grapes. Incorporate bottles of wine from the vineyard into the reception as well. Wine bottle corks can serve as unique place-card holders.
  
  

Backyards

• Backyard weddings are a budget-friendly and intimate option for outdoor weddings. Choose a sentimental home such as a childhood or grandparents' home, or simply the home of a close friend. The backyard wedding allows for a simple and homey atmosphere that's both personal and romantic.
  
  

Parks or Gardens

• Parks and gardens offer lush and natural landscapes for weddings. Choose an area with ample flowers to save costs on purchasing arrangements from a florist. Simply utilize what's naturally there. Choose a park that has meaning to you and your fiance, such as a place you had picnics when you were dating or took walks.
  
  

Water

• Water offers a romantic and visually appealing background for a wedding, regardless of what locale you choose. A beach wedding has an exotic appeal, while a lakeside or riverside wedding will have a rustic and country feel to it. For a creative approach, consider having the wedding at an outdoor aquarium. You may end up with some lucky shots of dolphins or seals diving in the background of your wedding photos.
  
  

Mountaintops

• For a truly rustic and natural wedding atmosphere, transport guests and the bridal party to the top of a mountain. Vows can be exchanged on a mountaintop overlooking the landscape or at a view point. A sunset wedding in this type of location will have an even greater visual impact for one-of-a-kind photos.