Lyla Dejesus
Capturing the perfect wedding photos is a must for every couple. While some prefer candid photos, others opt for pre-planned or posed shots. Regardless of the style, there are some must-have wedding pictures that every couple should consider. From bridal prep photos and portraits to capturing the little details, such as accessories and decorations, these photos will evoke emotions and cherish memories. Including the wedding party, family, and friends in group photos is essential, and don't forget the all-important first look between the couple! Ultimately, the best wedding photos capture the genuine interactions and unique moments that reflect the couple's personality and their special day.
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What You'll Learn
Bridal prep and portraits
Location
The location of the bridal prep can vary, whether it's a swanky hotel, your childhood home, or a bridal suite. Think about the space and whether it will work for you and your bridal party. A nice big window is ideal, as it provides natural light, which is flattering and requires minimal equipment. Natural light is best on cloudy days, as sunny days can be tricky for pure white dresses, and rainy days may limit your options. Consider the direction of the window, as you don't want the public to be able to peek in. If the groom is getting ready nearby, ensure he can't sneak a peek!
Details
Have all the small details ready and in one place for the photographer to capture: shoes, jewellery, flowers, perfume, and any other special items. These details add to the story of your day and ensure the photographer doesn't have to interrupt your preparations. A clean, well-lit, and organised space will ensure the focus is on you and your bridal party, not clutter or mess.
Dress
Your wedding dress should be the centrepiece of your bridal portraits. Have it pre-steamed, unstuffed, and hung up near a window in a closed-off room to avoid creases and crowds. Designate an area for the dress to be put on, separate from clutter, and consider the lighting and backdrop. You may want to choose only one or two people to help you into your dress, so the rest of the bridal party gets a surprise when they see you.
People
Bridal prep photos are a great opportunity to capture candid moments with your bridal party, parents, and in-laws. If there are certain relationships you want to be featured or avoided, communicate this to your photographer. You may want to bring your bouquet, and have someone to help fluff your dress, carry your flowers, and fix your hair and veil.
Poses
Bridal portraits give you a chance to try out your complete bridal look and practice posing and moving in your dress. Your photographer will guide you, but it's important to trust them and let go of any strict lists you may have. The goal is to have photos that feel like you, capturing genuine interactions and emotions.
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Couple's first look
Capturing the couple's "first look" is a modern wedding tradition that many couples adopt. It is an intimate and emotional moment where the couple sees each other for the first time before the ceremony. It usually takes place about two hours before the ceremony and provides the couple with a private moment to take in the day and capture some formal portraits.
- Choose a unique and special location that offers a beautiful backdrop for the photos. For example, a waterfront setting, as in the case of Brianna Medina and Matt Brouckaert's wedding, or a thicket of palm trees like Carolina Favero Braga and Freud Milice's wedding in Brazil.
- Consider including a unique photo prop, such as a vintage truck or a secluded bench, to make the moment more intimate and the photos more visually appealing.
- The couple can also incorporate personal touches, such as exchanging personal vows or sharing their favourite food during their special moment, as mentioned by some couples who opted for a first look.
- It is important to trust your photographer and allow them to capture genuine moments. While it is good to discuss ideas and must-have shots, being too rigid with a specific list may cause genuine moments to be missed.
- The couple should feel free to express their comfort levels with certain poses or locations and be open with their photographer to ensure they love their photos.
- Finally, the couple may want to consider capturing their first look from their own perspective by using a Polaroid or film camera to create frame-worthy memories.
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Group photos
Planning and Preparation:
It's important to plan and communicate your group photo wishes in advance. Provide your photographer with a list of desired groupings, including names and relationships, to ensure a smooth and efficient photoshoot. This will help the photographer organise the groups and avoid missing anyone or any special combinations. It is recommended to limit the number of groupings to around 10 to 15 per 30-minute set to ensure enough time for each photo and to enjoy the celebrations.
Wedding Party:
The wedding party, including bridesmaids, groomsmen, ring bearers, flower girls, and the officiant, is a must for group photos. Consider a full group shot with everyone and then separate shots with the bridesmaids and groomsmen. If there are young attendants, like ring bearers or flower girls, you may want to capture a shot without them for a different dynamic. These photos will capture the energy and support of your closest companions on your special day.
Immediate Family:
Immediate family members such as parents, grandparents, and siblings are typically included in wedding photo groupings. If you have a larger extended family, consider budgeting more time for additional combinations. For divorced parents, it's essential to discuss photo preferences and comfort levels beforehand to ensure everyone feels included and respected. Candid and relaxed photos can also be a wonderful way to capture the joy and love of your family.
Fun and Creative Ideas:
Add a touch of fun to your group photos with creative ideas. Encourage family members to hold props like streamers or sparklers, wear sunglasses, or make funny faces. Capture the silliness of siblings picking each other up or the sweetness of couples kissing side by side. These unique and spontaneous moments will create lasting memories and add a personal touch to your wedding album.
Helpful Tips:
To ensure the group photo process runs smoothly, consider assigning a trusted member of the wedding party to help gather people. This person should be someone who knows most of the guests and can be assertive in rounding them up. Communicate your photo list and expectations to this person in advance so they can assist effectively. Additionally, remind family members about their time slots to avoid missing out on important photo opportunities.
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Candid and posed family photos
While posed family photos are a classic and important part of wedding photography, candid shots are also a must-have. These days, documentary-style wedding photography is gaining popularity, capturing the day in the most realistic and authentic way possible.
A candid photo is one where the subjects are not staged or posed, but rather, are captured as they naturally are. For example, a candid photo could be of the bride and her mother-in-law sharing a moment, or the groom admiring his wedding ring. These photos often capture real interactions and true joy, and can transport you back to that moment when you look at them.
To get great candid shots, it's important to trust your photographer and let go of strict lists of poses. A good photographer will be able to capture the special details of your day, the unique qualities of your venue, and the emotions of you and your loved ones, without being constrained by a list. That being said, it's always a good idea to share some inspiration and ideas with your photographer beforehand, so they can guide you in the right direction.
If you want to get some great candid family photos, try creating a joyful atmosphere by greeting your family with open arms and big smiles. Write meaningful letters or give speeches to evoke real reactions. These moments will be happening all around, and a skilled photographer will be able to capture them.
Of course, posed family photos are also important. If you want to include a large group photo, it might be a good idea to do this right after the ceremony, or after dinner, when everyone is on the dance floor. That way, you can get the photo done quickly and then everyone can go off and enjoy the reception or get some rest before the ceremony.
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Venue and decor details
Wedding decor is an essential part of your wedding and will help improve the look and vibe of your venue. It is a visual representation of your love and celebration, so it is important to get it right.
When it comes to venue and decor details, there are many things to consider. Firstly, the colour scheme of the venue is important. Neutral colours are often preferred as they don't "cast" colours onto the skin, but if you do opt for a coloured space, ensure it has access to natural light and works with the scheme of the wedding. Big windows with natural light are ideal, but if this is not possible, artificial lighting can work too. Just be sure to avoid mixed lighting, as this can create an orange or two-toned effect in photos.
The decor itself is also key. Fresh flowers and floral details can be expensive, so consider using dried flowers and leaves instead. If you're having an indoor wedding, look for an ornate altar, and consider using drapes for a cosy feel. For outdoor weddings, decorate with elegant table settings, crystal chandeliers, and floral arrangements. If you're having a winter wedding, take advantage of the season's decor, and don't be afraid to add your own unique touches, such as abstract banners or Disney-themed table numbers.
Photography Tips
To capture the perfect venue and decor photos, communicate your must-have shots to your photographer beforehand. They will be able to advise on the best lighting and backdrops, and ensure that every detail is captured. If you want photos from different angles, ensure the photographer has space to move around, and if you want up-close shots, they must be able to enter and exit the space without causing a distraction.
Don't forget to capture the little details, such as escort card installations, unique bars, reception backdrops, and table settings. These are the details that you spent time and money on, so you'll want to be able to look back on them and relive the day.
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Frequently asked questions
There are many must-have wedding pictures that couples can choose from. Some of the most popular ones include bridal prep photos, portraits, first looks, and posed and candid wedding day portraits. Pictures of the couple with their immediate family and friends are also common.
Couples can get creative with their wedding pictures and include unique elements such as laser photos, pictures with pets, or fun props like balloons or signs.
It is important to communicate your must-have photos with your photographer beforehand. While it is good to have a list, it is also crucial to trust your photographer and allow them to capture genuine moments.
Yes, detail photos are necessary to remember the small things that made your wedding day special. This includes pictures of your accessories, decor, and any personal touches you've added.
Aside from the standard group photos, some unique bridal party picture ideas include solo shots with each member, fun photo booth shots, and pictures with any young bridesmaids and groomsmen.
