If there’s one universal truth about weddings that every engaged couple needs to know, it’s this:
This list of 10 must-have wedding photos is a great guide for couples planning their big day. Each of these moments encapsulates the essence of a wedding, from the tiny details like the invitation suite and accessories, to the major milestones. Here are a few standout ideas that really highlight how to capture the full experience:
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The Invitation Suite
“Be sure to bring a complete, unblemished invitation suite with you to the wedding, and be prepared to hand it over as requested. If you’re concerned about keeping a set to frame at home as a keepsake, consider ordering a few extra copies in advance.”
2. The Beauty Moment
For many brides, the getting-ready process is one of the most emotional and exciting parts of the day. Capturing these moments not only highlights the transformation as the bride prepares to step into her wedding day, but it also provides a beautiful narrative of the journey to the ceremony.
In addition to the getting-ready moments, we ensure that the photographer knows any special items, traditions, or unique elements of your wedding (like handwritten vows, a family heirloom, or a special toast) so they can prioritize those during their shooting. By planning well and sharing your schedule, we give your photographer the opportunity to capture everything you’re envisioning for your wedding day.
3. The Accessories
Wedding accessories are often carefully chosen for their sentimental value, style, and connection to tradition. Whether they’re part of a family heirloom or a new addition to your bridal look, these small details play an important role in your overall wedding day story. It’s a great idea to have your photographer capture them so you can remember each meaningful item.
The ‘Something Old, New, Borrowed, and Blue’:
Many brides incorporate these traditional items into their wedding day, each one symbolizing a different aspect of life and marriage. Make sure your photographer takes a shot of all of these items together, especially if they are meaningful. For example:
- Old: A family heirloom, like a piece of jewelry or a vintage handkerchief.
- New: Something you’ve bought just for the day, like a new bracelet or shoes.
- Borrowed: Maybe a necklace or veil passed down from a friend or relative.
- Blue: Could be a garter, a piece of jewelry, or even something tucked inside your dress.
4. The getting ready moments
A simple but powerful moment, like your mom, maid of honor, or a close friend zipping you into your dress, is both intimate and full of emotion. The look on your face as the dress is pulled into place, paired with the love and support of those around you, creates a beautiful, candid shot.
5. The wedding shoes
Wedding shoes can be a stylish statement and often hold sentimental value, so showcasing them in your wedding photos adds a personal touch. By asking your photographer to incorporate your shoes into shots with your other accessories, like your jewelry or veil, you create a cohesive and elegant collection of details that will make for stunning memories. It’s a beautiful way to highlight the little things that make your big day unique!
6. The Bridal Bouquet
Since you’ll only be holding it for part of the day, taking a few photos with your bouquet is a great way to capture its beauty and significance. Afterward, hand it over to your maid of honor for some solo shots—your photographer will know just how to frame it to highlight its colors and design. These photos will be a stunning addition to your wedding album, preserving that special moment forever!
7. The First Look
The decision to have a first look or wait until the aisle moment is such a personal one, and there’s no right or wrong choice—what matters most is what feels right for you as a couple. If you do opt for a first look, having your photographer there to capture the raw emotion and excitement of that private moment is a beautiful way to relive it later. The anticipation, the smiles, the tears—it’s a magical exchange, and those photos will become treasured memories that you’ll cherish for a lifetime.
8. The Portraits
Sneaking away for a private photo session after saying “I do” is a wonderful way to enjoy a quiet, intimate moment with your partner amidst the excitement of the day. It allows you to reflect on the ceremony and create timeless, meaningful photos that capture the love and joy of the moment. Plus, without the distraction of guests, the photographer can capture some truly candid, emotional shots of you both, making the memories even more special.
9. The Wedding Party
A wedding party photo is a great way to commemorate the people who played an important role in your big day. These are the friends and family members who have supported you throughout your life, and having a picture that includes everyone is a perfect way to preserve those connections. Not only does it capture the energy and joy of the celebration, but it also provides a lasting memory of all the loved ones who stood by your side as you began this new chapter in your life. When you look back on the photo, it’ll bring a smile knowing these special people were there to celebrate with you!
10. The Centerpieces
Wedding flowers are often a significant part of the day, adding beauty and elegance to the venue, so capturing detailed shots of each unique centerpiece is a wonderful way to preserve their beauty. Your photographer can focus on the intricate details—like the texture of petals, the arrangement, and the colors—so that you can relive the visual impact long after the wedding. Additionally, having close-up shots of the flowers can also highlight the thought and care you put into choosing them, and they serve as a perfect reminder of the ambiance you created for your special day. And, if you’re planning to preserve any flowers or incorporate them into post-wedding activities, these photos can serve as a lovely tribute to your floral design!
Last but not least – of course – your photographer will naturally capture those key moments that are essential to your wedding day story, like the walk down the aisle, the first kiss, and the walk away together as a newly married couple. These moments are the heart of the day and are often the ones you’ll cherish most when looking back on the memories. Group photos with family and friends will also be captured, ensuring you have beautiful keepsakes of everyone who shared in your celebration.
Additionally, candid moments, like laughing during the vows, exchanging glances, or sharing a quiet moment together, will also be beautifully captured. It’s those in-between moments that often hold the most emotion, and having them documented adds even more depth to your wedding album. Every detail, from the big events to the subtle, intimate moments, will create a rich narrative of your day!
