If you’re planning your wedding, then you probably want to make sure it’s captured the right way. And this includes all those dreamy & infinitely romantic photos that portray your love in its most beautiful form.
But does your wedding photographer actually know how to capture these breathtaking moments? Or even which moments these are at all?
Well, after this blog post, you won’t have to worry about that anymore!
As a professional wedding photographer from Melbourne, I’ve seen it all – the good, the bad, and the “what were they even thinking?”. And in this blog post, I’ve distilled the 5 most important wedding shots you could possibly take on your wedding day.
These are the breathtaking wedding photos that might have already made you feel a bit jealous when you came across them on Pinterest or Instagram. And while they might seem out of reach at first glance, I’m here to tell you that they’re not. You can have stunning wedding photos just like the ones you’re gushing about IF your photographer knows what they’re doing.
So, without further ado, here are the top 5 types of wedding shots that you’d regret missing on your special day.
1. The First Look – Cue the Waterworks!
Okay, traditionalists might want to cover their ears for this one…
…but the ‘First Look’ is where it’s at.
It’s that heart-stopping moment when you see each other all dolled up for the first time on your big day. It’s raw emotion, pure and unscripted.
Now, whether this happens at the altar, or you opt for a private reveal before your wedding ceremony – it doesn’t matter. You’re still both gonna have that “OMG, we’re getting married” expression on your faces.
You’ll laugh, you’ll smile, or you’ll freeze up for a heartbeat – but this moment is real, it’s yours, and it’s beautiful. And if tears are shed, even better – your future kids need to know their parents are total softies.
And let me tell you, the photos?
They’re the kind of shots that make you feel things. Good things. Emotions that are deep – emotions that are real.
So, if you want a shot that screams “THIS is why we’re gonna spend the rest of our lives together” – this is it.
And even if you don’t want to do a first look in the traditional sense…
…make sure you ask your wedding photographer to capture the moment when you see each other for the first time on your big day.
2. The “I Do” Moment – Kissy Faces Welcome
Your first kiss as a married couple is like the season finale of your favourite show. It’s got to be epic.
And yeah, everyone’s eyes (and cameras) will definitely be on you – so no pressure, right?
Now, your photographer has to make sure they’re in the right spot at the right time to capture that magical smooch without Aunt Linda’s hat blocking the view. They have to have their cameras ready, otherwise they might miss it.
So, obviously you have to hire a photographer who knows what they’re doing – and how to best capture your first kiss. But if you want to make their jobs a bit easier (and guarantee that they absolutely won’t miss your once-in-a-lifetime moment), here’s a little tip for you…
Hold that kiss for a few seconds.
It gives us photographers enough time to get the perfect shot.
It gives you a chance to fully embrace your first kiss.
And let’s be real, you won’t hear anyone complaining about an extended lip-lock.
Afterwards, feel free to have your “We did it!” walk back down the aisle and have your victory shot too. You know, an euphoric photo of when the heroes of your love story (that’s you) actually make it. I’m talking confetti, petals, or even grandma’s thrown tissues frozen mid-air. Or basically anything you want that makes for an epic shot worthy of your first few moments as a married couple.
3. The Squad Goals Pic – Because #FriendsForever
Okay, so you’ve handpicked your squad for the big day. The ultimate squad – your BFFs who have been with you through thick and thin, sunshine and rain, and have seen all your happiness and sorrow.
So, gather your tribe, and let’s get a shot that says “We could totally start our own cool band”.
Feel free to jump in the air like you just don’t care or kid around and laugh your asses off like in the good old days. Or, step into adult life with class by toasting your besties with your favorite bottle of bubbly.
Casual or formal – whatever floats your boat. But whatever style you’re going for, don’t forget to tell everyone to smile. I mean, no one wants a photo with Kevin looking like he’s at a dentist appointment…
This might be your only chance of getting a few professional photos with your best friends in an elegant setting – so make it count!
On a side-note, this is also your chance to include your doggos in your photos too (if you have any). After all, they’re practically family, and are already an important part of your life – but they won’t be around forever. So wouldn’t it be amazing to find a way to include them too in the happiest day of your life.
4. The Twilight Twirl – Romance Level: Expert
In case you’re new to my blog, there’s a reason I rave about Golden Hour.
That warm, dreamy light just before sunset? – Chef’s kiss. It’s like Mother Nature’s very own filter that just makes everything look more dreamy & beautiful…
So, make sure to take advantage of the most flattering light ever! As soon as your surroundings are flooded by the warm light of the setting Sun, grab your partner for a sunset twirl or a quiet moment together.
For one, you might appreciate a breath of fresh air and a moment away from the hustle & bustle of your reception. But more importantly, this is the time to take the best shots ever…
So go for a walk – be yourselves. Dance, laugh, kiss, or snuggle – just focus on having a good time together. And your photographer will take care of the rest and capture some of the best photos of your entire wedding day.
I’m talking about the shots that make your friends say, “I want that at my wedding” – and you get to say, “Sorry, Karen, it was a one-time special”. I’m talking about breathtaking photos from which you’ll have a hard time choosing your album cover (because they’ll all be THAT good).
I’m talking pure love – your love – captured through my lens, and printed on a piece of paper. It’s like turning all your favorite memories into poetry for the eyes…
5. The Candid Craze – Laugh, Cry, Dance, Repeat
You’ve seen those wedding photos where all the wedding guests look stiff enough to be mannequins in a storefront?
– Yeah, let’s not do that…
Weddings are fun – or at least they should be – and your photos need to reflect that joy and celebration.
So, instead of having everyone pose with a fake smile, imagine candid shots of your mom wiping away a tear during the ceremony, or your nephew breakdancing on the dance floor. Imagine capturing your friends cracking up at an inside joke, or your grandma hugging you tightly with all the love in the world.
Authentic moments are just that – authentic. Some of them will be beautiful, some of them will be emotional, and some of them will be hilarious. But all of them will be perfectly imperfect – genuine, and real.
And while getting a few staged shots and perfect photographs can also be a good idea…
…the real moments are the ones that will spark emotions in you every time you feel nostalgic and flip through your wedding album.
After all, THESE are the memories that’ll make you say, “Remember when…” and laugh until you cry.
There you have it, the 5 most important types of wedding photos you need (or at least: should consider) on your wedding day. And if you’re still looking for a wedding photographer who actually knows what they’re doing – but still understands that your love story is unique in its own beautiful way – feel free to hit me up! If I’m still available on your wedding date, I’d be honored to document your beautiful day.
