The wedding album is one of the most special mementos that a couple may share. This keepsake might be filled with many of the best shots taken at the event, from images of the bride tossing her bouquet to shots of the bride and groom cutting the first slice of wedding cake. Some photos are absolutely essential, and they must be included in any wedding album. Whether a couple prefers all traditional photos, uniquely posed shots, or a combination of both, the album that they keep should be a reflection of their two styles and personalities.
Before the Ceremony
Some of the best shots might be taken before the ceremony begins. The photographer might capture a depiction of the mother of the bride zipping up the bride’s gown just before the wedding takes place. In fact, arranging for several shots of the bride as she is getting her hair and makeup done is advisable. During this time, a bride can look both vulnerable and radiant, and such images will be especially meaningful later. Plenty of other photo opportunities are apt to manifest before a wedding. A picture might be taken of the groom and his party as they wait for the wedding to begin. Shots of the bridesmaids should be taken, along with photos of both sets of future in-laws. Other essential images include shots of the flower girls and ring bearer.
During the Ceremony
One of the most precious images from the day could be the delight of the groom as he first glimpses his bride making her way down the aisle. This is a once-in-a-lifetime moment, and it must be captured for posterity. Photos should also be taken as each person in the wedding party makes an entrance, from the flower girl to the groomsman to the bride. Another crucial image is the depiction of the couple exchanging vows. A shot of the couple’s first kiss after the vows might be given a soft lighting effect before being framed.
After the Ceremony
Shots taken directly after the ceremony should depict the joy and exhilaration of the moment. This is a good time to catch images of the parents of both the bride and the groom. This is also an opportune time to get pictures of the bride and groom as they leave the church. A classic wedding depiction is a shot of the guests tossing rice or confetti as the bride and groom leave for the reception.
Scenic shots can also serve as special reminders of the day. If the wedding is being held at a chapel in the countryside, a shot of the bride and groom standing in front of the rolling landscape could be exquisite. If the wedding location is a beach, images of the ocean behind the wedding party could be worth framing and hanging on a living room wall.
The Reception
A wedding photographer’s job does not end immediately after the ceremony. The reception will provide a broad array of opportunities to take lovely photographs. Such moments include the cutting of the cake, the arrival of the newly married couple, and the bouquet being tossed by the bride. Other great shots may be taken of the décor, cuisine, floral arrangements, and reception venue. Shots of the wedding party and the guests dancing are often fun images to capture and to view later.
Ideally, a wedding album will depict all of the special moments throughout the day. While all of these photographs are important, some may be especially meaningful. From the time the bride begins to get dressed to the moment the newlyweds leave the reception, a photographer might capture an array of images that illustrate a unique and special story.