6 Must-Have Wedding Photos

Are you already thinking about your wedding photos? There are 6 must-have wedding photos.

Must-have wedding photos of the couple

When you get wedding photos as a couple will be determined by your timeline. Are you planning a first look or opting to see each other during the ceremony?

For the bride & groom planning a wedding first look

For those planning a first look, you have a couple of opportunities to capture portraits together. A first look means that you will see each other before the ceremony. Your photographer will document the groom’s reaction to first seeing the bride and capture portraits of you together before the ceremony starts. Then, if your ceremony ends before sunset, you have another chance for portraits as a husband and wife.

For the bride & groom NOT planning a first look

Alternatively, if you’re skipping a first look, you will first see each other at the altar during your ceremony. Your portraits will be as a husband and wife. When creating your timeline make sure that there is a buffer of time after your ceremony to capture these. Most photographers use natural light, meaning the sun for images. You will need to plan for portraits before the sun sets.

The bridal party

You’ve selected each person to be a part of your wedding party. Bridal party photos are your chance to get images as a full group, the bride’s side, and the groom’s side. This is also the perfect time to get a photo with each of your besties in the bridal party separately.

Wedding details

Usually, when the bride is getting ready, wedding photographers will work on capturing details of the day. Details include things such as the wedding dress, shoes, invitation suite, flowers, etc.

For a list of ideas check out my blog post “Preparing for Wedding Detail Photos.”

Images documenting your wedding ceremony are a must-have

The wedding ceremony is an important part of your wedding day, which makes these wedding photos a must-have for your final gallery. Your wedding photographer will get a variety of images during this time.

Family Formals

When it’s time for family formal photos, I suggest sticking to immediate family photos. Communicate with your photographer beforehand. If your photographer knows your family photo priorities it is much easier to keep people where they need to be.

Ceremony Decor

Raise your hand if you’re deep into wedding planning with Pinterest boards of ideas.

You’ve selected your color scheme, flowers, aisle decor, and more. Images of your ceremony decor show the time you’ve put into the details for your wedding day.

Trusting your photographer to capture must-have wedding photos

It can be tempting to try re-creating images you’ve found for your wedding day. However, I highly suggest trusting your wedding photographer. Your photographer will know what to look out for during the day. That being said, if there’s something important you want to be captured communicate with your photographer ahead of time so they know what to expect.