the ultimate wedding photo checklist: moments you can’t miss
Your wedding day is one of your life's most special and memorable, and capturing those moments is crucial for preserving the memories. While it’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of the ceremony and reception, certain moments are simply too beautiful to miss. Here’s a list of essential wedding photos that every bride and groom should prioritize to ensure your album tells the complete story of your big day.
1. Getting Ready Shots
From the bride slipping into her dress, the groom adjusting his tie, and gorgeous flat-lay shots, the moments leading up to the ceremony are filled with excitement and anticipation. These shots can help tell the full story of your wedding day and are always filled with emotional energy.
2. The First Look
Whether you choose to see each other before the ceremony or prefer to wait until you meet at the altar, the first look is an unforgettable moment. The raw emotion on the couple’s faces as they see each other for the first time is a priceless moment that should be captured. Film photography has also become a popular way to capture these moments!
3. Private Vows (if applicable)
If you’ve opted for a private vow exchange before the ceremony or at a secluded location during the day, be sure to have your photographer ready. These intimate moments are often full of emotion and tenderness, making for some of the most personal and touching photos you’ll cherish forever.
4. Bride and Groom Alone Shots
While family and friends are important, don’t forget to take some quiet moments alone with your new spouse. These intimate bride and groom portraits are some of the most timeless and romantic photos. Whether it’s a moment in the garden, on the beach, or simply walking hand-in-hand, these shots will become some of your most cherished memories.
5. Family Portraits
Family photos are an important tradition, but they can also be a lot of fun! Capture candid moments of laughter, joy, and interaction with parents, siblings, and other close relatives. A mix of formal and candid shots is the best way to reflect the love and togetherness of your families.
6. Wedding Party Photos
Having your bridal party together for a few fun photos will add energy to your album. Whether you’re all striking a serious pose or laughing together, these shots show the bond and camaraderie shared between you and your closest friends.
7. The Kiss at the Altar
This is one of the most iconic moments of any wedding. Whether you choose a passionate kiss or a sweet peck, capturing the first kiss as a married couple is essential. The reactions from your guests, your photographer’s framing, and the joy of the moment will make for a beautiful photo that encapsulates the beginning of your new life together.
8. Details of the Day
Make sure your photographer takes close-up shots of the details you’ve carefully chosen for your big day. A wide-view shot of the ceremony shows every detail, from flowers to the seating arrangements. Candid photos of guests mingling and enjoying signature beverages are key during cocktail hour! The table decor during the reception is a crucial shot to take - showing off beautiful centerpieces and tableware.
9. Candid Guest Reactions
While the bride and groom are the stars of the show, don't forget to capture the reactions of your guests throughout the day. Their laughter, joy, and moments of emotion create a deeper narrative of the celebration and add personal touches to your wedding album.
10. The Grand Entrance
The grand entrance to your reception is another important moment to capture. Whether you’re entering as newlyweds or with your bridal party, this is the moment when everyone celebrates your new chapter, and your photographer can capture the excitement, joy, and energy in the room.
11. Special Dances
Capturing the special wedding dances is a highlight for any photographer, as these moments are filled with emotion and significance. The bride and groom's first dance is often a beautiful, intimate moment that marks the start of their married life together. The mother-son and father-daughter dances offer equally touching opportunities, showcasing the deep bonds between the couple and their parents. Find the perfect song for each dance here.
12. Sunset Shots
If your wedding is at an outdoor venue or has access to a picturesque view, sunset photos are a must. The warm glow of the setting sun creates a romantic atmosphere for breathtaking photos of the bride and groom against a natural backdrop.
13. Speeches
The wedding speeches are some of the most memorable moments of the day, offering a deep look into the relationships that shape the couple's journey. From the maid of honor’s heartfelt toast to the father’s emotional words and the groom’s thank you speech, each speech is a chance to witness genuine emotions and reflections. Capturing the essence of these speeches, along with the subtle reactions of the guests, allows for a beautiful, authentic representation of the day’s emotions.
14. Garter Toss
The garter toss is a fun and playful tradition that always makes for memorable photos. This brings a lighthearted and humorous touch to the wedding story, making this a must-capture moment for any photographer.
15. Bouquet Toss
The bouquet toss is another iconic moment that should never be missed. The expressions of the guests as they reach for the bouquet, combined with the bride’s joyful or playful look, create dynamic photos. These shots capture the energy of the reception and symbolize the spirit of fun and tradition that makes weddings so memorable.
16. Dancing Photos
Dancing photos are essential for showcasing the energy and joy of the celebration. From the couple’s intimate first dance to the lively group dances later in the evening, the dance floor is where the fun truly unfolds. Candid shots of guests laughing, twirling, or enjoying the music bring a sense of movement and excitement to the wedding album.
17. Cake Cutting
The cake-cutting is a fun and lighthearted moment that’s perfect for capturing joy and laughter. Whether you’re carefully cutting your cake or sharing a playful moment with your partner, be sure to get photos of this sweet tradition!
18. The Send-Off
Whether you’re leaving the venue in a vintage car, a grand exit with sparklers, or a bubble send-off, the send-off is a perfect moment for a grand photo. It marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. A joyful, celebratory shot at the end of the night is the perfect conclusion to your wedding album.
Coming soon to Etsy!
Planning your wedding photos just got easier! Our easy-to-use Wedding Photo Shot List Template ensures you’ll capture every essential moment on your big day. From the first look to the grand exit, this carefully curated list helps you organize your shots so you never miss a moment. Stay stress-free and make sure your photographer gets all the perfect shots with our downloadable template.
Your wedding day will fly by, but the photos will allow you to relive every emotion, every laugh, and every tender moment for years to come. Working with your photographer to capture the special moments listed above will ensure that your album is filled with memories that will last a lifetime. Don’t forget to plan ahead and let your photographer know the moments that matter most to you—because no detail, big or small, should go unnoticed on your big day! Not sure when these photos should be taken? Our wedding day timeline blog gives you everything you need to know for a smooth day.
