How to Get Wedding Photos That Make You Look Like a Rom-Com Lead (Without the Stress)
Ah, weddings. The day when you pledge your undying love, attempt to dance in shoes you regret wearing, and spend a small fortune on flowers that will look spectacular for roughly six hours. It’s a lot. And the last thing you want? Stiff, rushed, or awkward photos that look like you’re posing for a hostage situation rather than celebrating eternal love.
I’ve photographed enough weddings to know that the secret to stunning, stress-free photos isn’t just about hiring a great photographer (though, hi, nice to meet you!). It’s about planning smartly. So let’s break down everything you should discuss with your photographer before the big day to make sure your wedding album looks like something out of a Nicholas Sparks movie—minus the tragic third act.
1. Book Your Photographer Before You Book Your Planner
I know, I know. This sounds like a hot take, but hear me out. Wedding planners are great (shoutout to them for wrangling family members and making sure your cake doesn’t collapse). But photographers? We’re the ones capturing the actual memories of the day. If you have a dream photographer in mind, lock them in first so your planner can build the schedule around your photos—not the other way around.
Otherwise, you’ll end up with a jam-packed schedule that gives you exactly three minutes to take the most important photos of your life. Speaking of schedules…
2. Keep Your Schedule Light (Seriously, Don’t Overbook Yourself)
Weddings are not a race. You don’t get a medal for cramming in 18 different events before dinner. The more flexible your schedule, the more time we have to capture real, intimate moments—like you and your partner sneaking a private toast, your grandma breaking it down on the dance floor, or that flower girl eating cake straight off her plate with no hands (a personal favorite).
What’s the secret weapon of relaxed, effortlessly gorgeous wedding photos?
A romantic photo session at golden hour—that magical 20 to 30-minute window just before sunset when the light makes everyone look like a literal angel. Set this time aside in your schedule. Your future self scrolling through your wedding album will thank you.
3. Plan for Natural, Candid Moments (a.k.a. Don’t Micromanage Every Shot)
Pinterest is great for inspiration, but your wedding isn’t a photoshoot—it’s a day. The best moments aren’t the ones you over-plan; they’re the ones that happen naturally. Instead of handing your photographer a 200-photo shot list that includes “whimsical laughter in a meadow” (we love you, but no), trust us to capture the real magic as it unfolds.
Give us a few must-have shots (like family portraits or a special heirloom detail), then let the rest breathe. You’ll end up with wedding photos that feel real, not robotic.
4. Have a Backup Plan for the Weather (Because Mother Nature Has a Sense of Humor)
Listen, I’d love to control the weather for your big day, but until science catches up, we need a rain plan. If your dream ceremony is outside, make sure there’s a backup location with good lighting. And if it does rain? Embrace it! Some of the most romantic wedding photos happen under umbrellas, with wind-blown hair, and that just-kissed-in-the-rain movie magic.
Bonus tip: If it’s going to be hot, keep blotting papers and water on hand. Sweaty wedding photos? Not ideal.
5. Communicate Your Must-Have Family Photos (and Assign a “Wrangler”)
Family photos can either be a smooth, 15-minute experience or a 45-minute circus act where Uncle Bob disappears exactly when it’s his turn. Do yourself a favor—make a short list of key family shots and assign a “wrangler” (someone who knows the family and can help herd people). This keeps everything moving so we can get you back to the party where you belong.
6. Consider an Unplugged Ceremony (Because Aunt Karen Will Absolutely Step Into the Aisle for That iPad Shot)
Nothing ruins a perfect first kiss photo like a sea of phones blocking the view. Consider asking guests to put their devices away during the ceremony so your photographer can capture the moment without dodging your cousin’s iPad Pro (why do people even bring those?). You’ll get way better photos, and everyone will be more present.
7. Trust Your Photographer (Seriously, We Got This)
When you hire a professional wedding photographer, you’re not just paying for a person with a fancy camera—you’re paying for experience, an artistic eye, and someone who knows how to make you look amazing in any lighting situation. Trust us to do what we do best.
Your wedding day is a celebration, not a photoshoot checklist. Keep your schedule light, carve out time for golden hour, embrace the chaos, and most importantly—enjoy the day. The best photos happen when you’re fully present, laughing, and having the time of your life.
Ready to make magic together? Let’s talk about capturing your big day. Book now, and let’s make your wedding album something you’ll obsess over forever. 📸✨
