Your wedding day is packed with unforgettable moments, from the heartfelt getting-ready candids to the energetic late-night party shots. But how do you ensure your wedding gallery is truly one-of-a-kind?

Discover the must-have wedding photos that every couple should include in their photography checklist. From romantic first looks to lively reception highlights, we’ve curated wedding photography ideas to inspire you and elevate your wedding day memories.

Bonus: Each photo idea comes with pro tips to help you make the most of your wedding photography experience and create a gallery that feels uniquely yours.

Start planning your picture-perfect day now!

The Details

The first chapter of your wedding day story often begins with the invitation suite and bridal details, beautifully captured by your photographer. These shots, taken before those heartfelt getting-ready candids, set the tone for your entire photo gallery.

To ensure your photos are exactly what you want, it’s essential to plan ahead.

Must-Have Items for Your Detail Photos

Gather these items in advance to help your photographer create magazine-worthy images:

Two copies of your invitation suite, including the save-the-date and envelopes.
Rings: Both wedding bands and the engagement ring.
Accessories: Earrings, bracelet, necklace, hairpins—whatever completes your bridal look.
Your signature perfume—it’s a sentimental touch!
Boutonniere (bonus points for tying it to your floral theme).
Ring box—an elegant display piece.
Vow booklets (if you’re using them).
Wedding shoes—don’t forget those killer heels or comfy flats.

Pro Tips to Elevate Your Experience & Details

💡 Prep Early - Gather all your items the day before and place them in a designated bag. This way, you can easily hand them off to your photographer without any last-minute scrambling. Less stress - sigh.

💡 Add Floral Flair - Ask your florist for a few extra blooms to incorporate into these shots. Adding florals makes your invitation suite and detail photos look cohesive and ties them beautifully into the rest of your wedding gallery.

The Getting Ready Candids

Getting ready candids capture some of the most intimate and emotional moments of your wedding day. From the laughter shared with your bridal party to the quiet, reflective moments as you step into your dress, these photos tell the story of anticipation and excitement. Whether it’s your mom fastening your necklace, your best friends toasting with champagne, or the groom adjusting his tie, these images preserve the raw, unscripted beauty of the day’s beginning. They’re a must-have to relive the butterflies and joy of the moments leading up to "I do."

Pro Tips to Elevate Your Experience & Candids

💡 Rent An AirBnb - If your wedding venue does not have a getting-ready space that is cohesive with your vision look for a short-term rental that does!

💡 Keep the Space Tidy - A clutter-free environment allows the focus to stay on the people and emotions in the room. Designate a corner for bags, clothes, and other items to avoid distractions in the shots.

The Bridal Portrait

The bridal portrait is a show-stopping moment that highlights you at your most radiant, showcasing your gown, accessories, and unique beauty. These portraits are not just about how stunning you look—they’re a celebration of your personal style and the excitement of your wedding day.

Pro Tips for Perfect Bridal Portraits

💡 Incorporate Your Bouquet - Your bouquet adds color, texture, and personality to your portraits.

💡 Take Advantage of Window Light - If your getting-ready space has a large window, use it! Soft, natural light creates a flattering glow and enhances the elegance of your portrait, making it truly timeless.

The Groom’s Portrait

The groom’s portrait is a must-have wedding photo that captures his style, confidence, and excitement before walking down the aisle. The wedding day may be very focused on the bride so it can be nice to show off the groom for a moment! Whether it’s a classic shot adjusting his tie, a seated power pose or a candid moment of reflection, this portrait showcases his personality.

Pro Tips for a Stunning Groom’s Portrait

💡 Incorporate the Suit Details - Make sure the groom is full ready for the portrait and highlight unique touches like cufflinks, a pocket square, or a boutonniere to add personality and polish to the portrait.

💡 One Serious, One Fun - Start with a timeless, serious model pose—hands in pockets, a confident gaze, or adjusting the tie. Then loosen up with a fun, personality-filled pose, like a playful laugh, a toast with a glass, or a mock superhero stance.

The Bridal Bouquet

Your bridal bouquet isn’t just a collection of flowers—it’s a centerpiece of your wedding’s aesthetic and a symbol of the day’s beauty. A dedicated photo of your bouquet captures the intricate details and colors that make your wedding uniquely yours.

Pro Tips for Stunning Bouquet Photos

💡 Hold It Naturally - Keep your arms relaxed and hold the bouquet slightly below your waist for a comfortable and elegant look. This positioning also lets your dress and overall silhouette shine.

💡 Check Your Bouquet’s Best Side - Before your photos, take a moment to examine the bouquet. Florists often design it with a “front,” so ensure it’s facing the camera for its full impact.

Fun Getting Ready Bridals

Getting-ready bridal photos are the perfect mix of elegance and fun, capturing those candid, joyful moments before the ceremony. Individual shots of the bride, like slipping on vintage-inspired gloves or a dreamy veil moment, pair beautifully with lighthearted group photos featuring matching robes and heartfelt laughter. These images bring a sense of connection and excitement to your wedding album while showcasing your style.

Pro Tips for Picture-Perfect Getting-Ready Moments

💡 Choose Matching Robes for Your Girls - Matching robes or pajamas create a cohesive and stylish look that makes your group shots extra charming and Instagram-worthy.

💡 Wear Layers Under Your Robe - If you have a male photographer (or want extra coverage), wear your robe over a tank top and shorts. This ensures you feel comfortable and confident in your robe.

The First Look

The first look is one of the most emotional and intimate parts of your wedding day. It’s a private moment where you and your partner see each other for the first time, away from the crowd. The genuine reactions, happy tears, and excitement are priceless—and they make for some of the most heartfelt photos in your gallery.

Pro Tips for an Unforgettable First Look

💡 Exchange Vows During the Moment - Make your first look more meaningful by exchanging personal vows. Sharing your love and promises in this quiet moment adds a layer of intimacy and sets the tone for the day.

💡 Make It Personal - Before the first look is over, take a moment to show off your outfits to each other, compliment each other, and ask about your mornings. These sweet, simple interactions make the first look feel truly special and unique to your relationship.

Bridal Portraits Wedding Photography Ideas

The Bride & Groom Portraits

When it comes to capturing your wedding day, bridal portraits are an absolute must. These stunning, timeless photos are the perfect way to showcase your gown, your glow, and all the emotions you’ll feel on this once-in-a-lifetime day. Whether it’s the moment you’re slipping into your dress or that quiet moment of reflection before the ceremony, bridal portraits tell the story of who you are on this unforgettable day.

Pro Tips for the Bride and Groom

💡Relax and Have Fun – The best photos happen when you’re relaxed and enjoying the moment. Let your photographer guide you, but also allow yourselves to be in the moment and enjoy each other on your wedding day. Have fun!

💡Communicate with Your Photographer – Make sure your photographer knows any special moments or specific shots you want. A quick chat before your big day will ensure they can plan the perfect timing and style for those important bridal portraits.

💡Take Advantage of Sunset – Do not skip out on sunset photos! These are some of the most beautiful moments of the wedding day that you will capture! You won’t regret it!

The Wedding Party

Your wedding party isn’t just there for moral support—they’re part of the magic! Wedding party photos capture the laughter, camaraderie, and unforgettable moments with your closest friends and family. From getting-ready candids to perfectly choreographed group shots, these images add personality and fun to your wedding album.

Pro Tips To Enhance Your Wedding Party Portraits

💡Hire Two Photographers - Having two photographers allows you to use your time more efficiently One can capture the bride and bridesmaids while the other focuses on the groom and groomsmen—keeping things organized and stress-free!

💡Choose Fun but Cohesive Colors - Coordinate your wedding party attire with complementary colors or themes. It makes group photos look cohesive, timeless, and completely frame-worthy. Photos you will love!

The Ceremony & First Kiss

Your wedding ceremony is the heart of your day—the moment you say I do and begin your forever. Ceremony photos preserve every heartfelt exchange, tearful glance, and, of course, the kiss. That first kiss isn’t just tradition; it’s a memory you’ll revisit for years to come.

💡Kiss For Longer Than You expect - Hold your first kiss for a count of two! This gives your photographer time to perfectly capture the magic of that moment—because a blurry kiss just won’t do your love justice.

💡Get Excited and Celebrate - As you walk back down the aisle as newlyweds, take it slow! Pause to laugh, cheer, or even steal another kiss. These candid shots are full of joy and make for incredible photos you’ll treasure

10 Must-Have Photos On Your Wedding Day