You spend months planning your wedding, and then just like that, it’s passed you by in a flash. Thankfully, great photos can capture every aspect of the big day — even the tiny details you may have forgotten to notice. Without a doubt, there are certain shots no wedding should go without. Here, I’ve broken down those must-snap moments so that even years from now, you can take a look at the pictures and feel like it happened just yesterday.
The Dress
Whether it’s hanging in front of a window or from a bedpost, your dress deserves to be captured down to the smallest detail.
Bridesmaids Getting Ready
Everyone knows that plenty of special moments arise when bridesmaids get ready together.
Mother or Maid of Honor Zipping Up the Bride’s Dress
It’s one of the last finishing touches before the bride says “I do” and a special moment to be shared and captured.
Groomsmen Hanging Out
They may not take as long to get ready as the ladies, so some of the best guy shots can come when they’re just hanging out together.
The Portrait
Hair done? Check. Makeup done? Check. That means it’s time for your close up…beautiful!
The First Look
First there’s the anxiety and excitement, then all the joy pours out like no one is watching — capturing the first look is one of the best moments of the day!
The Ceremony Backdrop
There’s something wonderful about snapping the setting before it fills up with guests.
The Little Ones
Who can resist taking photos of the oh-so-cute flower girls and ring bearers?
Walk Down the Aisle
It’s the moment that kicks it all off and one that you’ll want to revisit over and over again.
Groom Watching the Bride Walk Down the Aisle
Some of the most heartwarming photos from a wedding often come from a smiling, sometimes teary-eyed groom as he watches the bride walk toward him.
The Vows
Of course you wish you could freeze your vow exchange forever in time. But the next best thing? A lovely photo to remember it by.
Wedding Rings
What wedding photos would be complete without a picture of the marriage symbol?
Bride’s Bouquet
You can’t save a beautiful bouquet forever, which is where great photos come in.
The Entire Wedding Party
One of the top wedding-shot must haves? Getting everyone from the wedding party together in one picture.
Location Shot
Chances are you chose your wedding location for its great scenery or backdrop, so don’t forget a shot of you two surrounded by all its beauty or special features.
Family Portrait
A photo of both families is a treasure that will make you smile even years down the line.
Floral Arrangements
You can never have too many photos of flowers, especially when they add such beautiful dimension to your day.
It’s in Print
With their fun fonts and colors, your charming touches deserving of some photo attention.
Candid Kiss
In the midst of all the action, a kissing couple is a sweet sight to see.
Table Setting
You poured hours into choosing napkin colors, designing centerpieces and just the right favor — get the photo that captures it all together.
Decor Details
Sometimes it takes a little zooming in to catch all the stunning details of your big-day.
The Toasts
Laughs, tears, and everything in between — speeches and toasts by loved ones promise all kinds of photo gems.
Dessert Table
Dessert tables are nothing but fun to photograph, whether you have one cake or a bunch of smaller sweets.
First Dance
Slow song, dance jam — it doesn’t matter. The first dance is definitely something that should make it into your wedding album.
Dance Floor Groovin’
The Send-Off
Wedding send-offs are so fun and the perfect way to end a perfect day.
Are there any that I have missed? What are some of the photo shots that are a must have for your wedding day photo list? Please share in the comments below and let me know.
