Moments that make the best photographs

Here’s a list of a few of our favorite wedding day moments that make the best, most meaningful photographs.

1. A simple note from the heart means so much

Writing a letter to your fiancé is such a meaningful gesture. Not sure what to write about? Tell them a few of your favorite things about them, how you’re looking forward to seeing them the day ahead, the funniest memory that you have together, or something you’re looking forward to doing together 50 years from now. Keep it simple, and a few words from the heart will mean so much to them. A handwritten letter costs little to nothing but will be cherished forever. The photographs of them (and you) reading the letters will be cherished forever, too.

2. Embracing imperfections and the elements

Not specifically a moment, but it’s just as important. Embrace the day as it happens. No matter what, rain or shine, as long as the two of you say “I do” and an officiant is there to make it official, then nothing can get in the way of you marrying your boo.

3. Spend a few moments with your significant other before the ceremony

“First looks” are great for so many reasons. Wedding days go by fast. Sometimes so fast that you don’t actually get to spend as much time with fiance as you’d like to, especially on a day that’s really all about the two of you. Seeing each other beforehand is special because it allows you to have a quiet moment together, before joining all of your loved ones. It’s a special, meaningful moment just for you, and the photographs will probably end up being some of your favorites from the day.

4. First look with friends and family

Your fiancé isn’t the only person who’s heartstrings will be pulled when they see you dressed and ready. Consider a reveal with your parents and friends as well. This moment doesn’t have to be over-orchestrated but simply walking into the room where you’ll see loved ones can be a sweet moment that pulls out beautiful photographs. The moment after the initial reaction is just as sweet – filled with lots of hugs, possibly a few tears, and smiling with your whole body.

wedding day first look moment with family or friends

5. Moments immediately following the ceremony

Speaking of hugs, tears, and full-body smiles, the moments immediately following your ceremony are sure to deliver. The moment of walking back down the aisle as newlyweds is a blissful one, and your family and friends will be beaming for you. Take a few moments to soak up the congratulatory hugs, high-fives, and giggly ceremony re-caps of when your veil fell out of your head and your dad had to figure out how to put it back on, or when the someone dropped the rings. Soak up the bliss and we will photograph it. The most meaningful photographs are the ones all about these moments.

6. Speeches

Give your best friends and closest family members the opportunity to tell you how much they love you and how much you mean to them, and take the opportunity to say it back. Speeches give guests the opportunity to take a glimpse into the relationships that shaped you into the person you are on your wedding day. The photographs will bring you back to how you felt when these words of love and support were spoken to you on such a meaningful occasion.

7. Moments with your wisest wedding guests, and the little ones, too

If you’re fortunate enough to have elderly family members present, spend some time celebrating with them, too. They’ll appreciate it, and you’ll love the candidness of these photos later on in life. Sweet little memories can unfold when kids can be kids in family photos and during the ceremony.