fbpx
a lovely sunset silhouette shot of the couple almost kissing , captured by black avenue productions

Your wedding day is one of the most special moments in your life.

Having a collection of beautiful photographs to remember it by will be priceless. But with so much happening throughout the day, it can be overwhelming to decide which moments are truly worth capturing. That’s where a carefully planned wedding photo checklist comes in.

To ensure you don’t miss a single precious moment, here’s a guide to your must-have wedding photos: from First Look to Last Dance. Whether you’re planning a traditional celebration or an intimate elopement, these moments will tell the complete story of your special day.

Beautiful candid shot of a bride and her four magenta-dressed bridesmaids.
Four groomsmen and a groom with their arms over each other's shoulders, smiles down at the camera.
1. PRE-WEDDING PREPARATION

The excitement and anticipation of the wedding day begins long before the ceremony actually starts. These getting ready shots capture the anticipation, emotion and behind the scenes.

  • Bridal Details: The dress, shoes, jewelry and bouquet.
  • Groom Details: The suit, cufflinks, watch and tie.
  • Candid Moments: The bride and groom getting ready with their entourage, hair and makeup shots and any pre-wedding emotions.

Pro tip: Focus on natural lighting in these shots to give a soft, intimate feel.

2. The First Look

This is one of the most emotional moments of the day. Whether you plan it before the ceremony or keep it traditional for the aisle, this moment is full of raw emotion and should be on your wedding photo checklist.

Groom Crying with Bride first look at rustic winery wedding
  • Bride’s Arrival: Capture the bride as she approaches the groom.
  • Groom’s Reaction: The expression on his face the moment he sees his partner.
  • Couple’s Embrace: The first hug, kiss or emotional exchange between the couple.

Check out these first look shots we’ve had of our previous clients. There’s so much emotion that could be seen, truly one of the best parts of the wedding day to capture!

3. The ceremony

The ceremony is the heart of a traditional wedding day, filled with love, joy and sometimes happy tears. Every part of this should be documented:

  • The Venue: Wide shots of the ceremony setup, or detail shots of the knick-knacks and decor.
  • The Procession: The bridal party, family members and, of course, the bride walking down the aisle.
  • Exchanging Vows: Close-ups of the couple as they declare their love and share their promises for a future of togetherness.
  • The Kiss: The iconic first kiss as a married couple.
  • Candid Guest Reactions: Shots of the family and friends wiping away tears of joy or beaming with joy (and sometimes screaming in excitement).
  • The Exit: The couple’s recessional as they walk down the aisle as newlyweds.
4. family and group portraits

These formal photos are an important part of the wedding day, as they document your loved ones who have shared your big day.

  • Immediate Family: Photos with parents, siblings and close family members.
  • Wedding Party: Group shots with bridesmaids, groomsmen and special friends.
  • Fun Group Shots: Inject personality into these with fun, playful poses or casual, candid shots.
5. The couple’s portraits

This is the newlyweds’ time to shine! The couple’s portrait sessions is all about capturing the love and connection.

  • Classic Romantic Poses: Shots of the newlyweds holding hands, sharing a quiet moment or gazing into each other’s eyes.
  • Creative Portraits: Take advantage of the location for more artistic shots, whether it’s a scenic outdoor background with a sunset or a beautiful, architectural castle setting.
  • Golden Hour Magic: Plan for some couple photos during the golden hour (an hour before the sun sets) for that dreamy, soft lighting.
Bath in the golden light of the setting sun, the bride and groom candidly laughs as they sit on the sand and lean their backs on each other.
6. Reception Highlights

The celebration truly begins at the reception, and these moments are filled with joy, laughter and a lot of dancing!

bride and groom dancing after the bouquet throw. captured by black avenue productions
  • The Entrance: Capture the couple’s grand entrance into the reception hall.
  • First Dance: A timeless moment the newlyweds will forever cherish.
  • Speeches and Toasts: The heartfelt words from the best man, maid of honor or parents. Usually teary and emotional!
  • Candid Guest Shots: Guests laughing, dancing and enjoying the festivities.

A well-planned wedding photo checklist ensures that every important moment of your wedding day is beautifully shot and documented. Having this, you can relax and enjoy your day knowing that the moments from your First Look to the Last Dance will be captured forever.

Black Avenue Productions is a team of passionate photographers and videographers who offers a range of styles that will capture your love story in the most enchanting way, however you like them. We cater to every photography and videography need you may have; from surprise proposals to anniversary photoshoots.

Contact us today and transform your wedding day into a classic that you can look back on with joy.