Your Ultimate Guide to Wedding Photography

Tips for Couples to Get the Best Photos

Your wedding day is one of the most significant days of your life. It’s filled with love, laughter, and a whirlwind of emotions—and, of course, you’ll want to preserve those precious moments for years to come. That’s where your wedding photographer comes in! To help you get the best photos that truly capture the magic of your day, we’ve put together a guide with tips that will make the process smoother and ensure you end up with stunning, timeless photos.

1. Start with the Right Photographer for You

Your photographer will be with you throughout one of the most important days of your life, so it’s crucial to choose someone whose style, personality, and approach resonate with you. Spend time looking at portfolios and reading reviews, but also have a conversation with potential photographers to make sure their personality meshes well with yours. A photographer you’re comfortable with will help you feel more relaxed, which means your photos will feel more natural.

Tip: Choose a photographer whose work you truly love, whether it’s documentary-style photography, classic posed portraits, or something a bit more artistic. Your photographer should be someone who understands and captures your vision for the day.

2. Create a Shot List, but Stay Flexible

While you want to make sure you get all the essential photos—family portraits, the first kiss, the wedding rings—there’s no need to micromanage the entire day. Share a shot list with your photographer, outlining the must-have moments, but also trust their expertise to capture spontaneous, beautiful shots that may not have been on the list. The best moments are often the ones that happen naturally.

Tip: Don’t forget the small but meaningful details: the invitation suite, the flower arrangements, your shoes, and the venue itself. These elements help tell the full story of your day.

3. Plan Your Timeline with Photography in Mind

Timing is everything when it comes to wedding photography. Work with your photographer to create a timeline that allows ample time for portraits, family photos, and candid moments throughout the day. Having a well-organized timeline will help minimize stress and give you more time to enjoy the day.

Tip: Consider scheduling your first look before the ceremony. This private moment allows for emotional photos without the pressure of the ceremony crowd and gives you more time for portraits afterward.

4. Consider Lighting for Stunning Photos

Lighting is one of the most important factors in great wedding photography. Natural light creates a warm, romantic vibe, but it’s also important to be mindful of when your ceremony and reception will take place. A good photographer will know how to work with whatever lighting conditions are available, whether that’s indoor dim lighting or outdoor sunlight. If you're planning an outdoor ceremony, try for a late afternoon or early evening ceremony to capture that golden hour glow.

Tip: If you have the option, schedule your portraits during the "golden hour"—the hour before sunset when the light is soft and flattering.

5. Relax and Be Yourself

One of the best pieces of advice for wedding photography is to just relax and be yourself. It’s easy to feel nervous, but the more relaxed you are, the more natural and authentic your photos will be. Your photographer will guide you through the process, but allowing your true emotions to shine will make the photos truly special. If you’re feeling a little camera-shy, remember that most photographers are skilled at directing you to create the most flattering shots while still keeping it fun.

Tip: Instead of stressing over posing, focus on enjoying the moment. Whether you’re holding hands, stealing a kiss, or laughing together, those genuine moments will produce the best photos.

6. Include Your Bridal Party and Family

Your wedding day is about more than just the couple—your bridal party and family will play a significant role in making the day memorable. Group shots, candid moments, and behind-the-scenes photos with your loved ones add depth and emotion to your wedding album. Make sure you allocate time for family and bridal party portraits, and consider giving your photographer a heads-up about any important family dynamics or specific people you’d like to highlight in photos.

Tip: Keep your bridal party informed about where and when they need to be for photos so that you can get the group shots done efficiently and smoothly.

7. Don’t Forget the Reception Fun!

While much of the focus is on the ceremony and formal portraits, the reception is just as important when it comes to capturing the vibe of your wedding. From the first dance to the speeches, the laughs to the party, make sure your photographer captures the atmosphere of your celebration. Candid shots of your guests having fun are just as meaningful as the posed portraits, so encourage your photographer to take in the energy of the room.

Tip: If you’re planning any special dances or events, such as a father-daughter dance or a grand entrance, make sure your photographer knows so they can capture those key moments.

8. Trust Your Photographer’s Expertise

Your wedding photographer is a professional, and part of hiring them is trusting their expertise. They’ve seen countless weddings and know how to capture all the big moments and little details that make your day unique. Don’t be afraid to let them guide you into position or suggest creative ideas for photos. Remember, they are there to make you look your best!

Tip: If you have a particular vision or style you want for your photos, don’t hesitate to communicate that with your photographer. But also be open to their suggestions—they might have some great ideas to make your photos even more special!

9. Make Time for the Couple’s Portraits

In the whirlwind of your wedding day, it’s easy to forget to take a moment to step back and enjoy each other. Schedule time for just the two of you to capture some intimate couple’s portraits. Whether it’s a quiet moment before the ceremony or during sunset, those portraits will become the heart of your wedding album.

Tip: Choose a location that’s meaningful to you as a couple. Whether it’s in a scenic part of your venue or a special spot in your town, the location can add to the storytelling of your photos.

Conclusion

Your wedding photos are more than just pictures—they are memories that will last a lifetime. By planning ahead, staying relaxed, and trusting your photographer’s expertise, you can ensure that your wedding photos will perfectly capture the beauty, joy, and emotion of your big day. Remember, this is your moment, and your wedding photos should reflect your unique love story.

If you’re in the process of planning your wedding and would like to discuss how we can capture your special day, feel free to reach out. I’d love to help you create memories that will last a lifetime!

-Epic Love Stories-
Wedding Photographer | Capturing Your Love Story