The Big Picture: Your Wedding Photo Guide
Feature Photo by Brandi Toole Photo
Your wedding day is a whirlwind of champagne toasts, teary smiles and wild dance moves you may never believe you pulled off. Spoiler alert: the day itself might fly by, but the memories? Those are forever. So, how do you make sure every magical moment gets captured and preserved? Enter your trusty photographer, their shot list and a carefully crafted photography timeline.
Your wedding photos will live on your Instagram feed, hold a permanent spot on Grandma’s mantel and, someday, 30 years down the road, make your future kids marvel at your gorgeous love story. Here’s how to help your photographer capture every swoon-worthy second.
CALL OUT THE DETAILS
Do you have heirlooms tied into your bouquet or a signature scent created just for your wedding day? Make sure your photographer knows about those meaningful touches. The little things that make your wedding uniquely YOU deserve a starring role in your photo gallery.
CURATE YOUR “MUST-HAVES”
If there are specific shots you’ve been dreaming of (think: dramatic sunset kisses or individual photos with each of your siblings), don’t keep them to yourself! Share a shortlist of “must- have” shots with your photographer. They’ll prioritize capturing these moments while still working their creative magic on everything else.
ENLIST HELP
Family group photos can be like herding cats. Assign a reliable friend or relative to help gather the right people for each shot. This person can wrangle everyone, keeping things moving smoothly and ensuring that no one sneaks off to the bar during this designated photo time.
TRUST YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER
Your photographer has been around the wedding block. They know how to find the perfect light, pose you like a supermodel and capture the just right mix of posed and candid moments. If they suggest something that feels a little silly or unnatural, try your best to go with it. Those silly instructions often result in the most cherished, authentic-looking photos. After all, your photographer wants you to look good — it’s their job!
EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED
Life happens, even on your wedding day. Weddings rarely stick to a minute-by-minute plan, and timelines may shift (think: your baby cousin crying during scheduled family portraits). But don’t sweat it — your photographer knows how to think fast and capture the magic anyway. Trust the pros to roll with it and keep snapping!
With these tips in your pocket, you’re all set for a wedding album full of love, laughter and those can’t-miss moments. Now, go ahead and let loose — and don’t forget to smile!
