Wedding Photography 101: How to Get the Shots You Want

Your wedding photos are more than just pictures—they’re lasting memories that will take you back to the emotions, details, and moments of your big day. Choosing the right photographer is essential, but so is clear communication about the kinds of shots you envision. Here’s a guide to help you and your partner work with your photographer to capture stunning photos that reflect your unique style and tell the story of your wedding day beautifully.

1. Choose a Photographer Whose Style Matches Yours

Before diving into specific shots, it’s essential to find a photographer whose style aligns with your vision. Wedding photography styles vary widely, from classic and formal to candid and photojournalistic, to light and airy or bold and moody. Look through portfolios and see what resonates with you—whether it’s a dramatic black-and-white style, soft and romantic lighting, or natural, documentary-style shots.

Tip: Browse through different photographers’ portfolios to get a sense of their style. Do they capture emotions well? Do their photos feel natural and unscripted, or are they more posed and structured? Once you find a photographer whose style feels right, it’s much easier to trust their creative direction on the big day.

2. Create a “Must-Have” Shot List

While you want to give your photographer creative freedom, a shot list can help ensure they capture the moments that matter most to you. Work together to make a list of “must-have” shots, including specific family members, bridal party groups, or special moments you want documented.

Common Must-Have Shots:

• Getting Ready: Candid moments with bridesmaids or groomsmen, putting on the dress, final touches.

• First Look: If you’re doing a first look, let your photographer know so they can plan the best location and angle.

• Ceremony Highlights: The ring exchange, first kiss, and your expressions as you walk down the aisle.

• Family Photos: Make a list of family members you want in group shots to save time.

• Reception Details: The first dance, cake cutting, toasts, and candid moments with guests.

  
  

Tip: Share this list with your photographer in advance so they know what’s important to you. However, keep it short—your photographer will have their own list of standard shots, so focus on unique or personal moments.

3. Share Your Story and Relationship Details

Getting to know each other helps your photographer capture your personalities authentically. Share how you met, memorable moments, and what you love most about each other. If there are specific elements of your story that you want highlighted in the photos—like a location that has meaning or a particular theme that reflects your relationship—be sure to communicate that.

Tip: Tell your photographer about family dynamics, too. If there are sensitive relationships or groupings to avoid, sharing this information can help ensure smooth, relaxed family photos.

4. Plan an Engagement Shoot as a “Practice Run”

An engagement shoot is a great opportunity to get comfortable in front of the camera and see how your photographer works. It also gives your photographer insight into how you interact as a couple, helping them learn how to capture your personalities and style on the big day.

Tip: Use the engagement shoot to discuss poses you love (or don’t love) and build trust with your photographer. Afterward, you can review the photos together and give feedback on any adjustments for the wedding day.

5. Discuss the Venue and Lighting Conditions

Lighting plays a huge role in wedding photography, and your photographer needs to know the venue’s layout and lighting conditions to plan for the best shots. Walk through your ceremony and reception spaces with your photographer or provide them with photos if a site visit isn’t possible.

Tips for Lighting:

• Outdoor Ceremonies: Midday sun can create harsh shadows, so if possible, schedule the ceremony for later in the day when the light is softer.

• Indoor or Dim Lighting: Share any lighting plans (candles, string lights) with your photographer so they can prepare the right equipment.

• Golden Hour Shots: If you love that soft, golden light, schedule time around sunset for couples’ portraits. Golden hour creates a magical, romantic glow that adds warmth to photos.

  
  

6. Give Your Photographer a Timeline of Key Events

Sharing your wedding day timeline is essential so your photographer knows when and where key moments will happen. From getting ready to the ceremony and reception events, having a clear schedule helps them be in the right place at the right time.

Key Moments to Include in Your Timeline:

• Getting Ready: Include details about where and when you’ll be getting ready, so they can capture those intimate pre-ceremony moments.

• First Look: If you’re planning a first look, schedule time for it before the ceremony.

• Reception Events: Share the order of events, including the first dance, cake cutting, and bouquet toss.

  
  

Tip: Build extra time into your schedule for portraits and candid moments. Weddings often run behind schedule, so a bit of buffer time helps avoid feeling rushed.

7. Think About Poses You Like (and Don’t Like)

Your photographer will guide you into poses that feel natural, but it can be helpful to communicate any poses you absolutely love or want to avoid. If you’re drawn to relaxed, candid shots rather than formal poses, let them know. Or if you’re excited about a dramatic, magazine-style pose, share that too.

Tip: Practice a few poses or stances with your partner to see what feels comfortable. Relaxed and comfortable poses make the photos look more natural, so practice breathing deeply, holding each other naturally, and looking into each other’s eyes.

8. Don’t Forget the Small Details

Your photographer is there to capture not only the big moments but also the small, meaningful details that you’ve worked so hard to plan. From the decor to personal mementos, make sure your photographer knows which details are most significant to you.

Details to Capture:

• Rings and Invitations: Many photographers start by taking close-ups of rings, invitations, and accessories.

• Flowers and Decor: Share any special design elements, like custom signage or heirloom decor, that you’d like photographed.

• Attire Details: Let your photographer know if there are meaningful items, like your grandmother’s brooch or your partner’s custom cufflinks, so they can capture those close-ups.

  
  

Tip: Gather all these details in one place, such as a box, to make it easy for the photographer to capture them without hunting around for individual pieces.

9. Trust Your Photographer’s Creative Vision

Once you’ve communicated your must-haves and given your photographer a sense of your style, let go and trust their creative vision. A good photographer will know how to capture the essence of the day and take spontaneous, beautiful shots that go beyond any shot list.

Tip: Instead of trying to control every shot, enjoy the moments as they unfold naturally. Photographers love capturing genuine emotions and interactions, so staying present will lead to better, more heartfelt photos.

10. Review and Confirm All Details in Advance

Before the big day, confirm all details with your photographer to ensure you’re both on the same page. Go over the timeline, shot list, and any last-minute changes. If possible, schedule a quick call to answer any final questions and review logistics.

Tip: Double-check contracts and deliverables, so you know what to expect after the wedding, including how many photos you’ll receive, editing timelines, and any additional costs for extra services or albums.

Final Thoughts

Wedding photography is an investment in memories, so taking the time to communicate your vision and work closely with your photographer is well worth it. By sharing your story, preferences, and must-have moments, you can set your photographer up to capture stunning photos that truly reflect your love and personality. At The Wedding Lab, we’re always here to help guide you through the planning process, making sure your wedding photography captures the magic of your special day. With the right preparation and a bit of trust, your photos will be a beautiful keepsake to cherish forever.