If you’re getting married, chances are you’ve spent hours flicking through wedding photos from your favourite couples to get some inspiration for your own big day. From pre-wedding shoots to golden hour ceremony snapshots, there’s undoubtedly something magical about weddings that only the best wedding photographers can capture. And, of course, it’s only natural to want your future wedding album to convey the same mood. But how can we ensure that your wedding photographer captures the moment exactly as you’d like? Is it just a matter of luck?
Well, not quite. As fine art wedding photographer Jose Villa explains:
“The best wedding photos happen when the couple feels like I’m just a friend with a camera.”
A photographer’s role involves making their subjects feel at ease, to avoid awkward poses and unnatural photos (Chandler Bing, we’re looking at you!). But how can a photographer – who’s only met the couple a few times before the wedding- achieve this? In this article, we’ll give you a few tips to help you navigate the ins and outs of wedding photography and ensure you get those dreamy photos to look back on with your grandchildren!
Start with a Pre-Wedding Chat
As we mentioned earlier, photographers consistently say the best results come when couples feel relaxed around them. A pre-wedding meeting—or even a short engagement shoot—helps build rapport and gives you a chance to share your preferences, must-have moments, and non-negotiables. While it may be difficult to build a relationship with your photographer before your big day, breaking the ice will help you feel more at ease with your choice. And, if you feel like they’re not the right fit, this gives you time to find someone better suited to your style and energy.
Style Matters – Know What You Like
Editorial, candid, documentary, classic – photographers work in different styles. It’s important to define your desired image style before choosing your photographer to ensure it matches theirs. If you’re not exactly sure how to describe your style, create a mood board! Photographers are expert visual communicators, after all. Plus, this could be a fun activity to organise with your partner or bridal party – or to simply enjoy solo as you reflect on your plans!
If possible, look through full albums (not just Instagram highlights) to get a real feel for a photographer’s storytelling approach.
The Importance of Timeline Planning
Light changes everything. Good photographers will help you map your day around the best lighting. Golden hour portraits, indoor lighting conditions, and buffer time between events all make a huge difference. If you’re eager to get those perfect golden hour shots, take a look at our recent blog post about wedding lighting here.
That said, not all dreamy photos rely on golden hour. If you’re planning a morning ceremony, you can still make the most of soft, flattering natural light. Let your photographer – or your wedding planner – guide you in choosing the best timing for your photos.
Trust the Professional, But Communicate Clearly
Photographers know how to get the right shot, but it’s up to you to provide them with the key information before the day. For example, if you’ve planned any surprises, let them know so they’re in the right position at the right time. Similarly, tell them which family members or friends must be included in the photos. That said, once you’ve briefed them, trust them to guide you on posing, timing, and flow.
Getting the Group Shots Right
Group shots are one of the most time-consuming – and often underestimated – parts of the day. A tip from the pros: assign a friend or planner to help gather guests for group shots. It keeps things moving smoothly without eating into the drinks reception!
Don’t Overthink It – The Best Moments Are Often Unscripted
At the end of the day, some of the most treasured wedding photos aren’t the posed ones. They’re the quick glances, the nervous laughter, the spontaneous dancing, or the quiet hug with a parent. Allow space in the day for those moments to happen naturally. Forget about the camera, and simply live in the moment. With the right photographer, your photos will reflect the pure joy you felt.
What to Expect After the Wedding
After the big day comes and goes, newlyweds wait eagerly for their photos. But how long do you have to wait, and what should you expect?
Each photographer handles editing, delivery timelines, and photo rights differently, so be sure to clarify everything ahead of time – especially how your photos will be shared and whether you’ll receive high-resolution files, prints, or albums.
Ready to start planning a photo-worthy wedding? Our team is here to help you find the right photographers, venues, and suppliers to bring your vision to life.
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