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The Whole Works
By Louise Baltruschat Hollis
When it comes to your wedding day, one of the lasting elements of all the love and celebrations is your wedding photos. So it’s likely your photographs are high on your priority list to get right.
I’m here today to share utterly stunning wedding photo ideas as well as a handy free photo shot list you can download to share with your photographer. Hooray! Fortunately, you can use wedissimo to find affordable wedding photographers near you.
Photo: Ginger Beard Weddings
It can be tricky to let go of controlling every part of your wedding day. Especially when it comes to your wedding photographs. However, preparation is key to peace of mind.
So if you are trying to work out just what wedding photos you really need, you are in the exact right place.
I have a list of all the potential wedding images you may want to be captured and a free photograph checklist you can print out, keep or share with your wedding photographer. Yes!
If you’d like both of your wedding preparations to be captured (if you are getting ready separately) then you will need to ensure you have a second photographer. Your wedding photographer can advise on this, some photographers may have this included in their package or if you have different wedding prep timings you may well end up with a different plan of action.
If you’ve got a special hanger, why not ensure you have a shot of your outfit in all its glory?
Photo: Cotton Candy Photography via Railway Station Wedding
Your accessories I am sure you’ve carefully chosen, so capture them forever before you wear them.
Photo: Wyldbee Photography via Rousham House Wedding
Wedding prep can be fun but can pass in a blur. Be sure to ask your photographer to capture the hairstyling.
Photo: Beth Alderson Photography via Lancashire Barn Wedding
And the all-important make-up application.
Photo: Rick Liston Photography via Stones Of The Yarra Valley Wedding
Not to mention the grooming gents!
Photo: Yana B. Photographer via Planterra Conservatory Wedding
Giving and receiving gifts is always lovely. But what if you miss the moment? Ask your photographer to capture the recipient’s reaction.
Photo: Firewood Film via Fun Colourful Barn Wedding
Spritzing perfume can be a lovely moment to keep.
Photo: Kelcy Leigh via Blush Emerald Wedding Oklahoma
Fastening your jewellery or accessories is usually a key prep moment.
Photo: Thyme Lane Photography via Spring Country Garden Wedding
Lots of couples have a drink to quell those last-minute nerves which can make a great photo opportunity.
Photo: Kerry Ann Duffy via Greatest Showman Wedding
When your wedding transport arrives it’s always an exciting moment.
Photo: Francesca Francesca via Anthurium Wedding
Don’t forget to get a bouquet shot before they wilt.
Photo: Amy Jordison Photography via Yellow Pink Wedding
The same goes for the dashing buttonholes.
Photo: Bernadeta Kupiec via Dunbar Wedding
It’s lovely to capture your wedding stationery in case you don’t want to keep them.
Photo: Thyme Lane Photography via Island Hall Wedding
If you’ve treated your faves to new robes or PJs, grab a group pic.
Photo: Lunalee Photography via Bohemian Industrial Oxblood Wedding
Getting dressed is a pivotal milestone in your wedding morning.
Photo: Ellie Gillard via Indian Lithuanian Wedding
As is the moment the buttonholes are fastened.
Photo: Firewood Film via Fun Colourful Barn Wedding
Top tip! Get a photo of everyone before they become dishevelled or their outfits tarnished in any way. Fresh!
Photo: Alice Cunliffe Photography via Happy Valley Wedding
Ask your photographer to perfectly position themselves, so they can shoot the reveal to your nearest and dearest.
Photo: Maddie Farris Photography via West Yorkshire Hall Wedding
Think about having a portrait of yourself to look back on in years to come.
Photo: Ofelia Matos via Intimate Party Wedding
Perfect wedding hairstyle? Get it on camera.
Photo: Nicola Belson Photography via Minimalist Wedding Ideas
Consider having close-up shots of you or your outfit details before the ceremony.
Photo: Northern Aye Photography via Alternative Scottish Wedding
Travelling to your ceremony can be super fun and your photographer can come along for the ride too.
Photo: Mary W-Thomas Photography via Caerhyn Wedding
Sometimes wedding photographers may like to take the venue and detail wedding photos before the ceremony and reception kick-off. This is because everything is untouched and there are no guests in the background of the images.
Of course, sometimes timings or weather may not allow this to be possible. So it’s best to speak to your photographer directly if you’d like those decor images.
You may think, “gah, I don’t need a photo of my DIY favours or the bunting that our lovely mate made for us“. But, these elements all make up your wedding story. They take you back to a memory and a moment. If these touches are sentimental or you spent hours creating them, an image for your album of these touches will be important to you in years to come.
For example, I just love seeing my wedding bouquet photo, it couldn’t last forever, but as soon as I see the photo of it, it makes me happy.
The backdrop to your day is a lovely photo opportunity.
Photo: James and Kerrie Photography via Holbrook Manor Wedding
As is the ceremony set up and pew ends you’ve so carefully considered.
Photo: Danielle Smith Photography via Ruscus Wedding
Always ensure you get a photo of your whole wedding reception room.
Photo: Camilla Andrea Photography via Whimsical Boho Wedding
Then there are the beautiful wedding flowers you’ve chosen from the heart. You won’t want to forget those!
Photo: Katherine Ashdown Photography via Barnston Lodge Wedding
If you have gone all-out with your wedding table set-up, be sure to get it captured in full.
Photo: HBA Photography via Lincolnshire Country Estate Wedding
Wedding backdrops are so popular, especially for wedding photos.
Photo: Georgia Rachael via Norfolk Beach Wedding
Ensure you have your aisle decor shot to perfection too.
Photo: Kape Photography via Nizuc Resort Wedding
Essentially, your centrepieces are the star of your wedding tables. So it’s always lovely to have a record of them.
Photo: The Light Painters via Cockliffe Country House Wedding
The guest book can be a lovely detail to have captured as well.
Photo: Thyme Lane Photography via Hall Farm Events Wedding
Then there is the wedding table plan photo, it’s a nice way to remember your guest list and where they all sat.
Photo: Sherri OMalley Photography via Aircraft Hangar Wedding
If you’ve crafted wedding signs, ensure you have a visual record to keep.
Photo: Thyme Lane Photography via Hall Farm Events Wedding
Another key shot is the place setting.
Photo: Emilie May via Wedding At Home
Unconventionally, you could take a photo of your wedding photo booth, without anyone posing!
Photo: Terri & Lori Photo and Film via Boho Rustic Barn Wedding
The wedding cake is a major element of your decor if you chose to have one, so be sure to add it to your photo list.
Photo: Emily & Steve Photography via Floral Barn Wedding
Sweet tooth and planning a wedding sweet table? It may be one detail you won’t want to forget.
Photo: HBA Photography via Calke Abbey Wedding
Wedding favours are another lovely detail you may want to hold close to your heart.
Photo: Gemma Giorgio Photography via West Suffolk Barn Wedding
Simple yet important table names may be important for you to add to your wedding album.
Photo: Emily Collett Photography via Yellow Blue Wedding
Spent hours sewing garlands and bunting? You’re going to want it on film.
Photo: Jessica O’Shaughnessy Photography via Outbuildings Wedding
To capture wedding lighting, it may be best to be shot when it gets dark for the full twinkling effect.
Photo: Georgi Mabee via Botanical Tipi Wedding
There are some really important parts to your wedding you just won’t want to miss on camera. Of course, as always around here there are no wedding rules. But most weddings will have these elements, if they aren’t for you, ignore these.
Therefore when you think about how your day flows or what’s important to you on the day. Be sure to communicate these to your photographer, they will then endeavour to capture these or give you clear expectations on what is actually possible.
Guests arriving is something you will miss as you make your way to the venue.
Photo: Aden Priest Photography via Geodome Campsite Wedding
A candid yet special moment as your wedding party arrives at the venue.
It’s also wonderful to capture you arriving or waiting at the ceremony before the vows commence.
Photo: Sian Richardson via Forest Lodge Weddings
Planning a first look? This has to be the ultimate wedding photo moment.
Photo: Mallory Miya Photography via Pacific Coast Wedding
Essential wedding photo alert! The walk down the aisle and the reactions are priceless.
Photo: Fiona Kelly Photography via South London Wedding
Your photographer will position themselves to get the best angles of the key ceremony moments. From the ceremony rituals to the vows and ring exchange.
Photo: Olegs & Rita Photography via Old Kent Barn Wedding
Sealing the deal with a kiss, it’s a great romantic shot to treasure.
Photo: Victoria Whiting Photography via La Mon Hotel Spa Wedding
Signing the register is the moment your marriage becomes official.
Photo: Natalie Coultas Photography via Love Shack Wedding
Then there is that moment, of pure joy as you are finally wed! The walk back down the aisle can be epic.
Photo: Steph Kiely Photography via Contemporary Countryside Wedding
To confetti or not confetti? Personally, the confetti shot is one of my favourite moments, it always looks so pretty.
Photo: Kim Williams Weddings via Brighton Barn Wedding
Whether you travel by car, bike or scooter, the journey can be the most fun part of your day.
Photo: Kristian Leven Photography via Royal Hospital Chelsea Wedding
Booking in for live musicians or wedding entertainment? Capture their moment too.
Photo: Aden Priest Photography via Geodome Campsite Wedding
Smoke flares have been a really popular trend. Available in different colours, they can add so much fun to wedding photos.
Photo: Bubear Photography via Farmhouse Redcoats Wedding
As you walk into your room, newly married and see all your hard work in situ, it’s a fantastic feeling.
Photo: John Wellings via Woodhouse Barn Wedding
Weather can make up the memories of the day. Whether it’s wind, rain, sun, snow or a rainbow, be sure to include the conditions in your photos.
Photo: Margarita Hope Photography via Eden Barn Wedding
Your speeches are sure to evoke lots of emotions you’ll want to look back on.
Photo: Lisa Howard Photography via Northern Monk Brewery Wedding
If you choose to have a cake cutting it’s a great photo opp!
Photo: Thyme Lane Photography via Hall Farm Events Wedding
Fun and games make for fun photos.
Photo: Sasha Weddings via Stanhill Court Hotel Wedding
Food is another huge element of your wedding memories to keep.
Photo: Charly Richards Photography via Vintage Glamour Wedding
Whether its your first dance, last dance or all the party action, ask your photographer to stay for the dancefloor fun.
Photo: Jen Owens Images via Strawberry Barn Wedding
Many couples are choosing to have sparklers and they make for striking images.
Photo: Emma Lawson via Fife Wedding
Fireworks are an epic way to end the night and wow your guests. Don’t forget to get some special snaps.
Photo: Grace Elizabeth via Weekend Glamping Wedding
Firepits are perfect for singing and s’mores, which will make for candid shots.
Photo: Martin Venherm Photography via Falside Mill Wedding
The couple portraits are most likely to be the images you display around your home and on your social media post-wedding. These are so important for you both, a real snapshot in time from this very special moment in your lives. I can’t wax lyrical enough about just how important it is to invest in a professional photographer.
A pro photographer will ensure you feel totally at ease and be completely natural in front of the lens. Not to mention the end result will be utterly beautiful and timeless. You want your wedding photos to feel like you after all.
Fun, natural hugs and laughter for the win.
Photo: Rebecca Carpenter Photography via Boho Beach Elopement
Romantic and beautiful kissing moments.
Photo: Helen Rose Photography via Dusky Pink Taupe Wedding
Dip your bride/groom for a dramatic fairytale shot.
Photo: Louise Pollitt Photography via Little Seed Field Wedding
Make the most of your spectacular location.
Photo: The Foxes Photography via Olympic National Park Elopement
If you have a gorgeous indoor wedding venue, be sure to have some indoor shots too.
Photo: Sophie Mort via The Hall Barns Wedding Prestwold
Modern side-by-side portraits always look cool.
Photo: Hannah Brooke Photography via 90s Wedding Ideas
If it’s raining head undercover for your photos.
Photo: Thyme Lane Photography via Milton Keynes Wedding
Movement makes for fantastic wedding photographs.
Photo: With Love Rose Photography via Boho Fairytale Wedding
Grab some shots of you in your wedding transport too.
Photo: Sarah Taylor Photo & Film via Van Life Wedding Ideas
Sweet forehead kisses are always intimate in photos.
Photo: Love Luella via Henblas Country Park Wedding
Pet coming to your day? Be sure to get some special images together.
Photo: Photography By Petrina via Moon Wedding Ideas
If you aren’t completely comfortable kissing on camera, nose-to-nose is another great option.
Photo: Paola De Paola
A hug from behind is a great pose idea on the day.
Photo: Sam Sparks Photo via White Skye Fields Wedding
If you are having a city wedding, find some brilliant graffiti or murals to post in front of.
Photo: Daniel Lightening Photography via Farmyard Wedding
Feeling brave? Get in the water for some memorable shots.
Photo: Pablo Laguia via Espacio Chechen Wedding
Be lifted into the air for the most romantic of shots.
Photo: Jade Touron Photography via Staycation Ideas Wedding
Dance, swirl, spin and see the joy radiating in your final photos.
Photo: Eloise & Mitch via Park Wedding Ideas
Raise your arms and cheer for a natural yet meaningful moment.
Photo: Clare Smith Photography via Blue Spring Wedding
Bring a bottle of bubbly for a fun pop moment.
Photo: Photos By Hash via Beer Garden Wedding
Find a special spot to have a chat and allow your photographer to do their thing.
Photo: Olivia Yuen Photo via New Orleans Micro Wedding
Or lay down and gaze at one another.
Photo: Brandon and Serena Photography via Red Rose Wedding Ideas
If your photographer has a drone, you can get some seriously amazing images.
Photo: Katja & Simon Photography via Folk Boho Mountain Wedding Ideas
Wearing a veil? Hide beneath it for some ethereal and soft images.
Photo: Kelly Hiscox Photography via Peony Pink Wedding
Ask your maids to surround your face with their blooms. Picture perfect!
Photo: Wyldbee Photography via Elford Hall Garden Wedding
Don’t forget to show off your new rings.
Photo: Georgia Rachael via Fishley Hall Wedding
Sunset or golden hour makes for the most beautiful light.
Photo: Rebecca Kerr Photography via Pizza Wedding Reception
Hop on the back of your partner for a fun photo idea.
Photo: Scott Carney Photography via Festival Yurt Wedding Ideas
Whoever’s in your wedding party that’s important to you. Be sure to include them in your photo lineup. Whether it’s your bridesman or the mother of the groom. This is your day, your rules.
If you have been dreaming of your bridesmaids’ lineup photo forever and planned their outfits to a T, make sure it happens. Likewise, if the idea of a groomsmen lineup sock photo makes you cringe, be sure it doesn’t happen.
Here are some ideas for your wedding party shots:
A key lineup has to be you and your bridesmaids looking stylish!
Image: Camera Hannah
For a spot of fun, ask the gents to reveal their socks.
Photo: M and G Photographic via Industrial Handmade Wedding
Turn around and hug your maids.
Photo: Jonny Gouldstone Photography via Hertfordshire Farm Wedding
Strut your stuff and hold your bouquets up high for a natural capture.
Photo: Kerry Ann Duffy Photography via High House Wedding
A line up of the groom’s party is essential too.
Photo: Luke Hayden Photography via Tram House Wedding
Be sure to ask your photographer to capture the cutest children, flower girls and page boys with their special roles.
The bridesmaid bouquet shot may just end up as your prettiest photo.
Photo: Laura Debourde Photography via Lynsted Park Wedding
Family group photos are a staple when it comes to the wedding album. But times are changing and many couples are opting for more natural, documentary-style images. Plus who actually buys or displays these line-up shots of 30 different variations of family/friends? Not to mention it takes time.
Ever been to a wedding and been left hanging around for an hour while wedding party members usher various guests into lines?
I’m not saying you shouldn’t do this, not at all. However, please do think about whether you need these images or if you are doing them for the sake of tradition or what you feel you should do. Your wedding, your rules.
Nevertheless, you should probably think about having a few select posed shots, ideas below. Or you could ask your photographer to try and capture natural shots of some of your closest loved ones.
The final, fun and key image here today? It has to be your whole wedding party lineup! Yes!
Photo: Marianne Chua Photography
I am going to actually end this article before the wedding, wondering why? It’s such a great idea to have a pre-wedding shoot because it not only helps you to connect with your wedding photographer, but it helps you to feel more confident and photo-ready for your wedding day.
When it comes to choosing a wedding photographer, be sure to click with them. Pardon the pun! Don’t forget, most of your day will be spent with your wedding photographer. Do you want to have a good relationship with them? Absolutely!
Your wedding day should be filled with fun memories and having a wedding photographer by your side that you get on with is super important. So to get to know your photographer all the more, an engagement shoot is ideal.
Your engagement shoot can also be a wonderful way to mark your engagement plus you get some gorgeous images you can use in your wedding stationery. Win-win.
Photo: Benji North
Get your photos organised like a pro, with this handy wedding photo checklist PDF. You can print or save digitally and update using your tablet and stylus. Cool huh?
Above all, whatever you chose to go for with your wedding photos. Communicate with your wedding photographer. They know their stuff, they know weddings and they have a style or flow they work best with.
They should have the advice, know-how and experience to help you conquer your wedding photo requirements. But most of all, centre your wedding around actually having fun and trust in your photographer to capture it all.
If you are looking for some of the best wedding photographers in the UK, why not check out my recommended wedding photographers by the way? Shameless plug right there. But I'm not sorry as my recommended photographers are just awesome and you will love them!
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