Wedding Photography Tips, Trends & Timelines

Your wedding day is one of the most magical moments of your life, and the memories captured by your photographer will be cherished forever.

From your first look with your partner to the ceremony and first dance or cake-cutting photos, every moment tells a story. This is why choosing the right photographer and understanding the process can make all the difference!

Below we are going to explore the different photography styles, wedding photography tips, latest trends and a sample wedding day photography timeline to inspire your big day!

Each and every couple will have their own vision for their wedding, and photography styles play a role in capturing those visions. For example, there are a few different types of shots you want to ensure your photographer captures, such as:

• Portrait photos with your partner
• Venue detail shots of the floral arrangements, table settings and architecture of the venue
• Your journey throughout the day, from getting ready to walking down the aisle, first look of the ballroom and your first dances until the party starts!
• Candid storytelling – natural moments where you or your guests are laughing or enjoying themselves, rather than just posed shots
• Romantic shots at sunset or dusk

Work with your photographer to ensure you look amazing! Discuss your most flattering angles and natural poses and opt for natural light where possible. The right photographer will want to document all the different parts and emotions of your day!

Book an engagement shoot – Engagement shoots help you to feel comfortable in front of the camera. They are a great way to get to know your photographer before the big day. We recommend choosing a meaningful location and to wear outfits that complement each other.

Know what to expect on your wedding day – Not everyone enjoys surprises, especially on their wedding day. Your photographer will want to capture everything from bridal prep in the morning to the first dance, sometimes evening reception too. It is important to be mindful of the schedule for the day to ensure that you have enough time for all the key wedding shots. Have faith and trust in your wedding photographer to allow them to guide you.

Feel comfortable in front of the camera – Our next tip is to practice a few natural poses beforehand and have fun with it! Authentic smiles make for the best of photos and we recommend focusing on your partner and not the camera.

How to pick the best photographer for you – Choosing your photographer can be a massive decision. You will be cherishing the photos for years to come, and it’s a big decision ensuring you have the right person capturing the memories for you. Therefore, our final tip is to look through lots of portfolios to find a style that you love, before meeting with potential photographers to ensure you get along well. Ask about what’s included in their packages –engagement shoots, wedding albums or additional extras such as extra shooters or videographer options.

To ensure that you get all the important moments captured, consider the structure of your wedding day. Below we have put together an example timeline to help you plan:

• 11:00am – Bridal prep photos & venue detail shots
• 12:00pm – Groomsmen photos & venue detail shots
• 12:45pm – Guests arriving photos
• 12:55pm – First look photos
• 1:00pm – Bridal party photos
• 1:25pm – Bridal party’s ceremony entrance
• 1:30pm – Magical ceremony photos
• 2:00pm – The first moments together as a married couple
• 2:05pm – Confetti photo & group shot with all wedding guests
• 2:15pm – Family & friend photos (formal & candid)
• 3:30pm – Couple’s intimate photos & reception detail shots
• 4:00pm – Speech photos
• 6:00pm – Romantic dusk shots
• 7:00pm – Bouquet toss photo
• 7:45pm – Cake cutting photo
• 7:50pm – First dance photo
• 7:55pm – Dancing & evening celebration shots
• 9:00pm – Sparkler photo

Drone Shots:

Aerial photos capture breathtaking views of the venue, ceremony and reception from different perspectives. They also capture the surrounding areas such as the countryside or surrounding beaches.

First Look Photos:

The special private moment when you and your partner/parents or bridal party where you see each other for the first time before the ceremony commences. This allows your photographer to capture raw emotions and ease any nerves before walking down the aisle.

Blurred Motion & Cinematic Effects:

A creative way to capture movement such as walking down the aisle to first dances and twirling on the dancefloor. It provides an ethereal feel and adds variety to traditional still shots. A great way to highlight energy and excitement in candid moments!

Black and White Timeless Edits

Ensuring your photographer takes some black and white photos that highlights emotions and details with a classic and elegant touch. They are perfect for intimate moments such as vows, first dances and close portraits. They add an artistic contrast to a colourful wedding album.

Wedding photography is more than just capturing pictures — it’s about telling your love story through stunning imagery. Whether you prefer classic portraits, candid documentary shots, or trendy drone photography, finding the right photographer and planning your day accordingly will ensure you have a breathtaking album to cherish for years to come.

Looking for the perfect wedding venue and photographer? Explore our curated list of venues and top-tier wedding photographers on For Better For Worse today!