10 Must-Have Photos Every Bride Should Take on Her Wedding Day

While the most important thing you should come away from your wedding with is a spouse, there are plenty of other wonderful things that you will end up with after your big day is over and done with. Unforgettable memories are one of them, as are memorable stories, wedding gifts and all the leftover food from the reception.

And, who could forget one of the most important takeaways of all – your beautiful wedding photos!

Your photographer will undoubtedly capture all the enchanting details of your day. However, there are some must-have shots that will make your wedding album truly unforgettable. 

From the traditional tear-jerker to the whimsically wonderful, here are 10 essential photos every bride should make sure to get on her big day.

• The First Look

Let’s kick off our list with the quintessential moment that will give you chills every time you look back – the first look. Whether you’re sharing this with your soon-to-be spouse or your proud parents, this snapshot captures the raw emotions of anticipation, surprise, and pure happiness.

• The Walk

No wedding album is complete without the iconic shot of you making your grand entrance. The delicate moment when you take those first steps toward your forever is brimming with emotion. Your dress trailing behind you, the proud gaze of your partner, and the faces of your loved ones beaming with pride – this photo encapsulates the essence of the wedding day.

• The Vows

Get ready to capture those heartfelt words that you and your partner exchange. A close-up shot of intertwined hands, your eyes locked in love – this is a snapshot that only comes once, and is over before you know it. That’s what makes capturing that perfect moment extra special.

• The Kiss

This one’s for the true romantics – what could be more heartwarming than the first kiss between a newly-married couple? This shot is all about the pure, unadulterated joy of sealing your love with a smooch, moments before your friends and family burst into applause.

• The Candid Laughs

Amidst all the grand moments, don’t forget to capture the candid laughter. Whether it’s during the speeches, a hilarious mishap, or a quirky dance move, these candid shots are the ones that truly reflect the uninhibited joy of your day. A belly laugh shared with your best friend or a giggling moment with your flower girl – these are the photos that will make you smile even on the toughest days.

• The Dance

Time to hit the dance floor and twirl the night away! The photo of you and your partner sharing a dance is the epitome of romance. The twinkle lights above, the soft music playing, and the intimate gaze you share – this moment encapsulates the magic of being swept away by each other’s presence.

• The Family

A sentimental shot that will tug at your heartstrings is the one that features three generations of love. Whether it’s a shot with your grandmother, your mother, and you, or one with your child, capturing this family bond adds an extra layer of meaning to your wedding photo collection. If your family has cherished photographs from weddings gone by, you can even try to recreate them.

• The Escape

As the day winds down, the moment you and your partner make your getaway is a candid shot you’ll treasure forever. Whether it’s a vintage car, a whimsical bicycle, or simply walking hand in hand, this photo symbolizes the beginning of your journey together as newlyweds.

• The Bridal Squad

Let’s not forget the fabulous ladies who’ve stood by your side through thick and thin. The moments shared with your bridesmaids are pure gold, and a candid shot capturing your squad’s laughter and inside jokes is an absolute must. Not to mention, they got dolled up for the occasion – it would be a shame to not include them in some beautiful photos.

• The Quiet Moments

Amidst the whirlwind of the day, taking a moment for yourself can be truly precious. Ask your photographer to capture you in a serene moment of reflection, perhaps just before you slip into your gown or during a peaceful moment in a garden. 

These shots reveal your innermost emotions – a mix of excitement, nervousness, and sheer joy – as you take a breath and prepare to step into the next chapter of your life.

Conclusion

If all goes well, you should walk away from your wedding with more special moments captured on camera than you know what to do with – and that’s a good thing! 

These photographs can be placed on your mantle, made into special photo keepsakes, or used in projects for those of us who can’t help expressing our feelings through art. Whatever you choose to do with all those memories, you’re sure to make something special.