You’re getting married, congratulations!
Now that the planning is underway, you’re probably wondering what wedding photos you need to take for this occasion.
As a professional wedding photographer, I have seen it all when it comes to photos. Brides and grooms often come to me and ask what photos they need to take at their wedding. While the answer varies depending on the couple’s style and preferences, there are some must-have shots that are important to completely telling a couples wedding day story.
Let’s go over the 33 photos you you need to take!
#1: The Invitation
Some photographers shoot the wedding invitation suite on the wedding day. In contrast, others do it in a studio after the event. Don’t be afraid to ask for what you want in the photos.
#2: The Wedding Bands And the Engagement Ring
This is the most important piece of jewelry that you will wear on your wedding day. If there are multiple rings in play (say a diamond-studded one and an heirloom from grandma, make sure to get photos of all the rings.
#3: The Accessories
Accessories make everything look better! It’s like a final dazzle on every look, and of course, your accessories need a photo of their own. Even a tiny earring or clip has unique details to be showcased. Get a combined shot of everything, even if you’re wearing something old, new, or borrowed.
#4: The Boutonnieres
These little floral arrangements pinned to the groom’s lapel are so dainty that they add such a touch of elegance.
#5: The Wedding Shoes
You’re going to be wearing these babies all day, so make sure to capture some shots of them. Also, have your photographer take a few photos of the groom’s shoes. It’s a minor detail that deserves attention.
#6: The Bride’s Makeup
To capture the makeup moments, bring your photographer to the bridal suite. Include your partner’s getting-ready moments and a timetable before the big day. Make sure you get a picture of your makeup artist and hairstylist at work.
#7: The Getting Ready Moments
After all that wedding dress shopping, you’ll want to capture the big reveal. Take a photo of your mom or maid of honor zipping or buttoning you in!
#8: The Bridal Portrait
This is your moment to shine in your wedding dress. You are about to experience wearing it once in your life and should be cherished like none other.
#9: The Veil
The key to getting an excellent veil photo is being aware of its looks from every angle. Make sure your photographer takes plenty of them.
#10: A Close-up of Your Bouquet
Your beautiful bouquet is the star of your wedding. Get close-ups and shots from all angles so that everyone can see how intricate they are, not just what’s in front.
#11. The Exchanging of Love Letters or Gifts
Weddings are a time for joy, so why not share some of that with your significant other? If you decide to swap letters or gifts before walking down the aisle, commemorate this sweet moment by taking pictures of one another while reading each other’s love notes.
#12: A Moment With Mom or Dad
You want to make sure that you get a photo with your parents (mom or dad) before walking down the aisle. It’s one of the sweetest times you will have to spend with your mom and dad on your wedding day.
#13: Dressed Bridal Party
Take a picture with your BFFs for life. A concept that presents how everyone stayed together through everyone’s unbreakable bond.
#14: The Groom
It’s his turn to be the model! Make sure they get photos of your groom getting ready with his guys, too. Let’s not forget that the groom is as important as the bride. A picture of the groom looking dapper with his groomsmen as they enjoy this day adds positive energy to the event.
#15: The Candid Moments
There are countless smiles on a wedding day and the candid moments are a photographer's favorite. Don’t be shy about showing your true selves and enjoy the day.
#16: The First Look
The exact moment you both see each other on the day of your wedding is a magical moment that needs to be preserved. That is the perfect time to capture it. Though others would prefer the photo to be taken on the aisle, the choice is yours to make.
#17: The Entire Wedding Party
This photo of your entire wedding party is so fun. The laughter and smiling faces show that they are enjoying themselves, which you want for this day. Put everyone together in one big group.
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#18: The Little Darlings
A bride-to-be requires a photo with her lovely flower girl and ring bearers. Take a few of each pose in whatever manner feels natural.
#19: The Ceremony Site
This is where you will say your vows. Have a photographer take a landscape shot that captures this moment in its natural setting. After all, we are celebrating something big here.
#20: The Walking Down The Aisle
This is a moment that will be with you forever. Whether walking on the arm of your mother, father, or both, this special connection can never change, and it’s something to treasure.
#21: The Groom Waiting at The Altar
The groom stands radiantly at the altar with an eager face. It’s a lovely moment that needs to be captured.
#22: The Kiss
The smooch that seals your love with a promise to be together forever. Let your officiant take some steps back for an epic shot that captures the newlyweds sealing their love.
#23: Signing The Marriage Certificate
Capture the moment you both signed your names to be forever united. This is the photo that will remind you of this day every year on your anniversary.
#24: Your First Walk As a Married Couple
A picture-perfect moment where two become one and you’re walking together through life, hand-in-hand as husband and wife.
#25: The Grand Exit
Make sure you have a photographer capture the grand exit as you make your way out as husband and wife. Throw some confetti in the air for an epic shot.
#26: The Portraits
You will want to spend some time with your partner after you say, “I do.” The perfect opportunity for capturing those golden moments when it’s just the two of you.
#27: The Cocktail Hour
Have your photographer capture guests enjoying their favorite beverages and socializing while the party is in full swing.
#28: The Reception
For an epic shot of your reception, ensure that your photographer captures the décor, details, and the centerpiece setting.
#29: The Cake
Snap a photo of the cake before it’s sliced! Include the newlyweds cutting the cake. It’s tradition to have a slice of the wedding cake after the ceremony, so be sure to snap a picture of you and your new spouse doing just that.
#30: The Couple’s First Dance
Slow dance to your favorite song while the photographer captures this sweet moment.
#31: Reception Traditions
Throwing your bouquet to other single women at your wedding (an old tradition) and similarly tossing the garter belt.
#32: The Dance Party
Let’s get this party started! Your photographer is all set up to capture everyone’s fun moments.
#33: The Night Shot
Have your photographer capture what will likely be the last images in your wedding album. Nothing says "The End" better than a romantic night shot!
Final Thoughts
Hopefully, this gives you a good idea of what kinds of photos you should have on your shot list. But remember, this is just a guideline, so feel free to add or delete as needed depending on what’s most important to you and your partner. This wedding photo list is only a guideline. Every person’s wedding day is unique; therefore, you may wind up with something different from what you expected.
MEET THE EXPERT!
Ralph Deal is a Philadelphia-based wedding photographer. He has a decade of experience capturing weddings, engagement sessions, family portraits, and women's portraiture.
Let's Talk About Your Wedding!
Call us at 609-617-6675 or schedule a consult by clicking the button below!