Come wedding day, your photographer will have just one chance to capture everything just as you experience it. And while there are about 100 things your photographer should have on his/her mental list of shots to get, there are a select few that are especially important.
Here are 10 of them. What are others that your photographer must capture for you?
1. A beauty shot: Getting ready for your wedding is exciting. You’re surrounded by your very best friends and your closest female relatives. It’s probably one of the most important bonding experiences you’ll have, so you want to be sure and invite your photographer in to capture some images of you getting your makeup done and getting into your gown.
2. The shoes: Your wedding shoes are a reflection of your personality and they’re the perfect compliment to your wedding day wardrobe, so a pretty pic of your shoes is a must!
3. Family heirloom, something old or something borrowed: Are you having a piece of your grandmother’s dress sewn into your dress? Are you including your mother’s veil in your wedding bouquet? Combining the old with the new is a great way to honor your loved ones and their marriages. Having a photo of these items will be important to preserve your family’s history and it will look beautiful in your wedding album.
4. The moment when your dad sees you for the first time in your gown: This is the day when your dad (or mom or other loved one) gives you away, so be sure and take a moment to say thanks for supporting and encouraging you over the years. Be sure and have your photographer nearby to capture the moment since your dad may surprise you and shed a few tears.
5. The flowers: The bouquets and floral arrangements are often the most romantic and colorful part of your wedding. They can also be one of the most expensive items in your budget. Be sure your photographer captures some detail shots of your flowers.
6. A classic portrait of the bride and the groom: Every mom, aunt and grandmother wants a beautiful portrait to display on the mantle. Be sure your photographer takes a moment to capture a simple, classic individual portrait of you and another of your groom. You’ll also want a classic portrait of the two of you. Today’s photography is full of fun and creative portraiture, but since this is your wedding you’ll want to be sure and have a timeless photo of you and your husband that will stand the test of time.
7. Walking down the aisle and the kiss: The moment has finally arrived and it’s time for you to make your entrance at the ceremony. You’re overwhelmed with emotion and you’re not sure if you should cry or giggle with excitement. Capturing those moments through photographs is important. Seeing a photo of you walking down the aisle will bring back those emotions and allow you to relive that moment. And of course you can’t miss the kiss!
8. Reception details: You’re hitched and now it’s time to celebrate! Be sure your photographer has a few minutes at the reception venue before the guests arrive to capture all of the details of your party. You’ll want shots of the food, drinks, cakes, centerpieces and any personal touches you’ve DIY’d or custom ordered. Having a cocktail hour or simply leaving the doors closed for a few moments will ensure that your photographer has time to get these shots.
9. Dance floor: Yes, your photographer should certainly photograph the first dances, the cake cutting and the toasts at your reception, but you also want to make sure your photographer captures the fun that’s happening on the dance floor once the party gets underway. Your Uncle Tom may bust out “the worm” or your grandma, who never dances, is out there getting down with your college girlfriends. Those moments of your family and guests enjoying themselves are so important to capture. It’s a celebration, after all, so be sure and photograph the merriment!
10. Grand exit: Your big exit as husband and wife is a must-shoot for your photographer. Here’s a tip to make sure that you have the best send-off images as possible: Have your grand exit right after the ceremony. By planning your exit after you say “I Do,” you’re sure to have nearly all of your guests there, which makes the photos more fun because you’ll be totally surrounded by loved ones and there will be tons of sparklers/rose petals/bubbles/etc. Also, by having your send-off after the ceremony, you’re likely to make it to the reception before your other guests, giving you a moment to soak in your reception decor before the room fills up.
