Indian Customs: What You Need to Know for Photos, Weddings, and Drones

If you’re planning a shoot, a ceremony, or a drone flight in India, knowing the local customs saves time, money, and headaches. From the bride’s prep schedule to the paperwork required for a drone licence, every detail follows a cultural rulebook. Below are the most common customs you’ll encounter and how to work with them.

Wedding Customs That Shape Your Photo Session

Indian weddings are a marathon of events, and photographers must match the pace. A typical bride gets ready 4–5 hours before the ceremony – that’s the window for makeup, hair, and the saj‑da (sari dressing). Schedule your pre‑wedding shoot early in that slot; a 30‑5 minute rule works well: spend 30 minutes on setup, then capture each look in 5‑minute bursts. It keeps the mood relaxed and the timeline on track.

The mother of the bride often joins the prep, adding emotional moments and extra photo opportunities. Ask the couple if they want mother‑and‑daughter shots; many families consider them a must‑have memory. If you include these, allocate an extra 10–15 minutes so you don’t rush the natural interaction.

When you discuss packages, be clear about what’s included: candid coverage, posed portraits, and any “first look” moments. Indian couples love a mix of both – candid photos capture real emotions, while posed shots satisfy family expectations for formal portraits. Offering a breakdown of hours and deliverables helps the couple budget without surprises.

Drone and Print Rules You Can’t Ignore

Flying a drone in India requires a licence from the DGCA. The 2025 rules state that anyone using a drone heavier than 250 g for commercial work must register, pass a knowledge test, and obtain a permit. If you’re just capturing aerial wedding shots, you’ll need the licence plus a specific permission for the venue. Check with the wedding planner or venue manager well before the event to avoid a last‑minute cancellation.

Drone shows are also regulated. Any light‑display using multiple drones must get a special event permit and a safety clearance from local authorities. Planning a grand entrance or a night‑time photo session? Start the approval process at least a month in advance.

Printing photos is still alive in 2025, especially for Indian families who love physical albums. When you offer print services, remind clients about size standards for passport photos – a 2×2 inch format with no earrings or headwear. A quick tip: use a free app to resize the image, then send the file to a local print shop or upload it to an online service for doorstep delivery.

Many ask if print is dead. The answer is no – prints are gifts, décor, and a way to preserve memories beyond the phone screen. If you provide high‑quality print options, you’ll add a revenue stream and keep clients happy.

Finally, respect cultural sensitivities during the shoot. Avoid photographing religious idols from behind, and ask permission before capturing any sacred ceremony. A simple "May I take this picture?" goes a long way toward building trust.

By aligning your schedule with wedding timelines, securing the right drone permits, and offering reliable print solutions, you’ll navigate Indian customs confidently. The result? Smooth shoots, happy clients, and photos that honor both tradition and modern style.