15 Must-Have Photos to Take on Your Wedding Day
Every soon-to-be married couple knows that wedding photos are one of the most vital parts of the ceremony and reception because they help preserve the moment and capture the magic of the special occasion forever. While your wedding photographer was hired to capture every incredible moment and carefully chosen detail, there’s no harm in discussing your must-have photo moments with your photographer in the months preceding the big celebration.
So, here are the must-take wedding photos every couple should have on their radar!
1. The Invitations
Many people don’t think the first few wedding shots to be photos of the invitation suite, but most photographers will take them on the wedding day. Consider this photo more as a memento of something you toiled over for hours before your big day rather than as something that will hang on the wall.
It’s important to discuss what you envision for the shot and if you want additional elements, like flowers or other decorations, to be included with the photographer.
2. The Getting Ready Moments
One of the most memorable wedding photos involves the getting ready moments, especially before all the glitz and glamour of the dresses and jewelry. So, get some fun snapshots of the day in cute matching pajamas or robes to have more casual fun photos to enjoy! Then take some more once the bride (and even groom) has their hair and makeup done, and even include a shot of your maid of honor zipping you up in your dress.
Because the morning of your wedding day is such an exciting but overwhelming few hours, we included more inspiration for getting ready photos to ensure the day goes off without a hitch.
3. The Accessories
In a traditional wedding, the bride typically wears something borrowed, blue, old, and new. So, it’s a great idea to capture photos of these all together and individually, given the careful consideration and great amount of time you put into choosing the perfect accessories for your special day.
4. The Bridal Portrait
Once you have finished your hair and makeup and put on that stunning wedding gown, it’s time for your official photo shoot. Try not to worry if you’re anxious about posing for those solo shots; your photographer will guide you as needed. You deserve those gorgeous shots of you looking radiant on your wedding day.
5. The Groom’s Portrait
Though it seems like the ladies get all the attention on their wedding day, the groom is just as important and should have his own moment in front of the camera too. Ultimately, his stylish appearance deserves to be documented.
6. The First Look
There’s no right or wrong answer in the end; some couples are adamant that they want a first glance, while others would prefer to wait until the aisle moment. Make sure your photographer is present to capture the moment if you wish to visit your partner before the ceremony. You will always treasure these moments.
7. The Ceremony Site
While, of course, you are excited to have your ceremony space filled with your favorite people, make sure you have some shots of it empty. You certainly have invested a lot of time, effort, and money into making the ceremony part of your special day extremely beautiful, so you’ll want to remember exactly what it looked like and all the little details surrounding it.
8. The Little Ones
If you have children in your wedding party, such as a flower girl and ring bearers, then you’ll want to ensure photos are taken of them. Little ones grow up so quickly, so it’s important to treasure the memories you have of them at this age.
9. The Wedding Party
Don’t forget to pose for some photos with the people in your wedding party. Whether it’s group ones or individual shots, they all love you so much and will forever cherish a solo picture to remember your special day.
10. The Walk Down the Aisle
Your walk down the aisle on the arm of your parents, mother, both, or another significant figure in your life, is another important wedding photo that you should be photographed. This is another moment that you will want to treasure forever.
11. The First Kiss
The first kiss at your wedding is one of the most magical moments ever. Nothing is more exciting than your first kiss after becoming legally wed, even after the vow exchange. Make sure you have a conversation with the officiant in advance, so they are aware to move out of the picture for this special occasion.
12. The First Dance
Being anxious about your dancing skills and appearance on camera is normal, especially since your first dance with your new life partner is likely one of the most frequently requested wedding pictures. You’ll be able to relax and let the photographer capture all the joy you’re having with your spouse if you put on your favorite song.
13. The Overall Reception Design
Nothing quite compares to the first time you see your reception space, but it ends too soon. So, ask your photographer to take pictures of the entire area in both its occupied and empty states so you can look back on every amazing detail for years to come.
14. The Cake, Cutting, and Eating
Before everyone digs in, make sure to get a shot of your cake in picture perfect condition!
When it comes time for the gorgeous cake cutting picture, make sure you stand close to each other, hold the knife together, and look at each other. Embrace natural light and make sure your theme is reflected in the background. Make sure your photographer captures candid smiles so that the essence of the moment shines through.
15. The Exit
There’s no better way to end the night on a high note than by leaving the venue, especially if you’ve set up something unique, like sparklers or confetti. To guarantee incredible shots, make sure to discuss this with your photographer.
If your reception is going to be late into the evening, you may also set the scene by making sure the photographer gets some amazing shots before guests head home.
Ultimately, your wedding day will pass by quickly, but your stunning wedding pictures will last a lifetime! So, be sure to check out our full guide of photo opportunities for more inspiration.
Ready to get started on planning your event? Contact us today!