Your wedding day is one of the most memorable events of your life, and capturing it through a mix of candid, natural documentary images and classic wedding portraits is the perfect way to relive your day for years to come.
To help you preserve these moments, here’s a quick guide to the top 10 wedding photographs every couple should aim for.
The Preparations - Getting Ready Shots & Details
These photos capture the build up to the ceremony with plenty of behind the scenes images from the preparations. There is often more focus on the bridal preparations but I think it is also definitely worthwhile also covering some getting ready photos with the groom and groomsmen.
Detail photos with the bride include the wedding dress, jewellery, perfume and flowers. More candid photos document the bridal hair and makeup and often the last parts of the dress being done up.
With the groom, some relaxed photos of ties being done and jackets being put on are quick and easy and help to tell the first part of your wedding day story.
Key moments: The bride putting on her dress, the groom buttoning his shirt, and candid moments with bridal parties.
Why it’s important: These shots tell the story of the morning leading up to "I do" and set the emotional tone for the day.
The First Look
A first look photo with the father of the bride or with the bridesmaids is always a special moment. It’s a great time to capture some candid images and emotional reactions with those closest to you.
Key moments: The father of the bride and the bridesmaids expressions when they see the bride for the first time, the bride’s reaction and interactions between everyone.
Why it’s important: It’s a personal moment that reflects the connection between the bride and her closest family and friends.
The Ceremony
There are always certain parts of the wedding ceremony that are special and must have images. These include the entrance of the bride, candid moments during the exchange of vows, putting on the wedding rings and the first kiss.
Key moments: Walking down the aisle, wedding vows, exchange of rings, first kiss.
Why it’s important: These are the most significant moments of the wedding service, representing the promises you’re making to each other.
The Family Portraits
Whilst you may want the majority of your images to be taken in a candid style that documents your day as it unfolds, it is also important to consider taking a few group photos with close family or friends.
After the ceremony and welcome drinks is often the perfect time to spend 15-20 minutes covering any specific photos you want.
Key moments: Small groups with close family members and friends.
Why it’s important: These images are timeless and connect the family history to your marriage. They also offer the chance to gather everyone in one place for a large group photo.
The Wedding Party
The bridal party will have supported you throughout your wedding planning, so it’s important to capture them in a mix of formal and informal photos.
Key moments: The bride and groom with their bridal party, candid shots of the group laughing or walking together, individual shots of bridesmaids and groomsmen.
Why it’s important: These shots reflect the relationships and friendships that have supported you leading up to your big day.
Wedding Portraits with the Bride & Groom
Your wedding portraits will be some of your most cherished wedding photographs. They can be relaxed and fun but whether candid or posed, these are the shots that reflect your love and connection as a married couple.
Key moments: Holding hands, sharing a kiss, taking a walk together.
Why it’s important: These photos are the heart of your wedding album, capturing the start of your married life together.
The Wedding Venue & Reception Details
The wedding reception will feature many beautiful details. It’s always worth making sure you have some photos of the venue, especially your reception setting. All those little details that you have spent time considering from the stationary to the centre pieces.
Key moments: The cake, flowers, table settings, guest books, and any other special decor.
Why it’s important: These shots show the care you put into planning the event and will help bring the entire day to life when you look back on it.
The Speeches
The speeches are a fantastic opportunity to capture any emotional and funny moments during the wedding reception. Whether is is the groom saying something romantic or the best man making ‘that’ joke, these photos help add to your story of the day.
Key moments: Photos of the groom, best man and family members making their speeches, as well as all the guests’ reactions.
Why it’s important: It captures some real moments of emotion and fun that help you remember what was said in your speeches.
The Cake Cutting
Cutting the cake is a fun and symbolic moment that often leads to a bit of playful interaction between the couple.
Key moments: The couple cutting the cake, feeding each other a slice, and any candid reactions from guests.
Why it’s important: It’s a sweet, lighthearted tradition that showcases the joy and fun of your celebration.
The First Dance
The first dance is a memorable moment where you and your partner share a private, intimate moment in front of your guests.
Key moments: A mix of wide shots of the couple on the dance floor and close-ups of their faces, as well as guests’ reactions.
Why it’s important: It symbolises the start of your new life together and creates one of the most romantic images of your wedding day.
Extras… Something fun, memorable and unique to you
It’s great to get some of the classic wedding photos that are described above, however I always like to get something fun and unique for each couple.
This may include photos at a separate location that is special to you. Often we head to the coast or another venue that offers some unique photo opportunities.
Some fun photos that always look great include practicing your first dance, popping a bottle of bubbly for a champagne spray photo, or getting some colourful images using smoke bombs, sparklers or fireworks.
There are lots of great options and if you have something special in mind I’m always happy to help.
