Picture Perfect: The Essential Wedding Shots You Don't Want to Miss!
Congratulations, you're getting married! While most of you have a general idea of what parts of the day need to be captured by the photographer and videographer, there are still lingering doubts about whether you might be missing something. So treat this article as a comprehensive guide or a refresher and who knows? You might find something that makes you go “why didn’t I think of that?”
Bianca & Nelson at blue mountains
Getting Ready
Shots of you getting ready are a great way to set the scene for the rest of the day. We definitely recommend capturing both the getting-ready moments of the groom and bride. For the groom, you’ll be looking at capturing details such as his suit, watch, rings, shoes, and in particular any ‘toys’ he may have. There was one groom who wanted his Star Wars collection captured!
Next comes the rowdy part, your man getting ready with his group of ‘boys’. A few pats on the back, crotch shots and generally explicit banter makes for amazing moments while your man puts on his gladiator suit. Most of the time, his parents will be there to witness the circus so make sure to get them captured together as well.
For the getting ready part for the bride, the details to capture include the wedding dress(hung up), rings, flowers, pets, finishing touches of your makeup and your beautiful wedding shoes. As you’re putting on your wedding dress, we’ll normally love to capture moments of your mum or your maid of honour helping you with your dress. Once that’s done, we’ll round up your bridesmaids and other family members for a wedding dress reaction! It’ll be an endless flow of tears and hugs which may give your makeup artist anxiety, but moments like these are priceless!
Bonus tip:
Adding letter reading or a first look can be a creative way to spice up your wedding day. They make for great moments where you and your man share intimate moments before the ceremony.
2. Ceremony
Ohhhh here comes the most nervous part for most couples. Walking down the aisle can honestly be one of the most nerve-wracking moments in your life. For the groom, your magical entrance will likely bring tears to his eyes. That’s why it's important to capture all of the key moments. Your photographer and videographer should capture the processional: the bride walking down the aisle, the vows, the ring exchange, the first kiss, the signing, and lastly, you walking out as husband and wife!
Once the ceremony ends, this is the time for family and group photos. A great way to make this a seamless process and to have a list containing different groups of family and friends, and pass it to the photographer. That way, you’re making sure that you won’t miss a photo with someone important to you.
Bonus tip: A great way to end your ceremony is to have a massive group photo that includes every one of your guests!
Bianca & Nelson at blue mountains
3. Bridal Portraits
Bridal portraits are a beautiful way to capture the bride's stunning beauty on your special day. These shots can be taken before or after the ceremony and usually feature the bride in her wedding gown in a variety of poses and settings, such as in front of a scenic backdrop or near a decorative element of the wedding venue. Your wedding photographer and videographer will normally start with your bridal party first. Once that’s done, they’ll work with just the two of you to create a stunning set of portraits that will be cherished for years to come.
Bonus tip: If you have no idea where to do your bridal portraits, ask your photographer and videographer! Their vast experience meant that they’ll probably have a list of recommended locations that you can choose from.
4. Reception
The reception is where the party really starts, and your photographer and videographer should capture all of the fun. Shots to look out for include the couple's entrance, the first dance, the speeches, the cutting of the cake, and the bouquet and garter toss. They should also get candid shots of the guests enjoying themselves and dancing their hearts out.
Bonus tip: Organise a sparkler’s exit for your wedding! It’s a great way to end your special day and exit with your loved ones cheering you on.
