The Secret to Perfect Wedding Photos EVERY Couple Needs to Know!
Picture this: it’s your first wedding anniversary. You’re sitting on the couch, cozy in your PJs, a glass of champagne in hand, flipping through your wedding album. Every image sparks a memory—the way your partner smiled during the vows, the tear your mom wiped away during the first dance, and that epic moment your best friend did the worm on the dance floor.
Now imagine the opposite. You open your wedding album only to cringe—awkward poses, stiff smiles, and photos that feel like they belong to someone else. Your special day doesn’t look like the joyful, love-filled celebration you remember.
As a wedding photographer, I’ve seen it all: the couples who radiate joy on camera and the ones who struggle to loosen up. The difference? It’s not just about the lighting, angles, or even the fancy camera (though those help). The secret to perfect wedding photos is connection.
But don’t worry—I’m not here to lecture you about soul-searching. Instead, let me share everything I’ve learned about turning your wedding photos into a jaw-dropping, memory-filled masterpiece.
Understanding What “Perfect” Means to You
Here’s a quick story: I once worked with a couple, Abby and Colby, who had different focuses on their wedding day photos. Abby wanted dreamy, romantic photos straight out of a fairytale, while Colby couldn’t stop cracking dad jokes long enough to hold a serious pose. Instead of forcing them into one mold, we embraced their personalities. Their album was a mix of soft, romantic shots for Abby and goofy, candid moments that showcased Colby’s playful side.
The lesson? “Perfect” looks different for everyone. Some couples want grand, sweeping portraits, while others just want to capture their goofy, laid-back vibe. Think about what matters most to you—your relationship style, your favorite moments together, and how you want to remember this day. Communicate that vision to your photographer so they can tailor their approach to your love story.
The Secret Revealed
Here’s the big reveal: the most stunning wedding photos happen when you genuinely click with your photographer. Why? Because when you’re comfortable, you’re natural. And when you’re natural, your love shines through in every shot.
I once photographed a couple, April and David, who admitted during their engagement photos that they were camera-shy. Instead of diving straight into poses, we spent time getting to talk about what made them feel comfortable with the camera during their engagement shoot—talking about their love of VW Bug, their kids, and their plans for their future together. By the time their wedding day arrived, we were closer friends than strangers with a camera. The result? Photos that looked like magazine spreads but felt like them.
When searching for a photographer, treat it like dating. Ask questions, chat casually, and make sure you vibe. You’ll spend more time with your photographer on your wedding day than almost anyone else, so choose someone you actually enjoy being around!
Preparation is Everything
A little prep work goes a long way in ensuring flawless wedding photos. For instance, a couple I worked with, Kristyn and Devon, wanted sunset photos but didn’t realize their reception was planned to start smack in the middle of golden hour. By tweaking their timeline and squeezing in a quick sunset shoot, we captured the most magical backlit portraits.
Here are a few tips:
Create a Timeline: Work with your photographer to schedule enough time for key moments like getting ready, family photos, and couple portraits.
Have a Shot List: Share your must-have photos (grandma’s reaction during the ceremony, your bridal party’s champagne toast) with your photographer.
Venue Scouting: Send photos of the venue to your photographer so they can prepare accordingly - including where you’re getting ready, the ceremony, where you would like your couples portraits, and the reception.
These small details make a huge difference!
Relax. Be in the Moment
Let me tell you about one of my favorite moments as a photographer. During a wedding last summer, the bride and groom, Cameron and Helena, had just finished their first dance when - suddenly - it began to rain. Instead of panicking, they ran outside, and we captured them in the rain. Those photos? Pure magic. You can even see the rain drops in some of their photos!
The moral of the story: don’t stress about perfection. The best photos happen when you’re fully present, embracing the love and joy of the day. Trust your photographer to guide you, but don’t overthink it. Focus on your partner, laugh, cry, dance—it’s these moments that make your photos unforgettable.
Your Love Story Deserves to Shine
So, here’s the real secret: perfect wedding photos aren’t about perfection at all. They’re about connection—with your photographer, with your partner, and with the emotions of the day. With a little preparation, the right mindset, and a whole lot of love, your wedding photos will become a cherished keepsake for years to come.
Start by finding the photographer who feels like an extension of your wedding dream team. Communicate your vision, trust the process, and most importantly, soak up every moment of your big day.
