The 10 most important photographs to take on your wedding day

Bride and groom alone before the ceremony 
I think that this is, by far, my favourite photo of the wedding day.

It's the moment, just before the big moment that will change your life forever - anticipation of the commitment to the person you want to share your life with. It is nothing to do with doubts or second thoughts, but somehow it is so stressful and the feelings are so intense that it is written all over the face.

Want to hear what science has to say? You can blame the hormones; they are responsible for all the stress you were facing. The ACTH and cortisol hormones can be as high as 60-80% above the norm, it’s no wonder most brides feel a little apprehensive. Now you have something to blame! Want to read more? - see the article Wedding Day Emotions By David Smiedt.

I believe that the only chance to experience this moment again (or at least 1% of the intensity of emotions of the big day) is to have a photograph of that moment. To get the best picture you will need a moment alone, reflecting on your feelings. Step outside, or ask everyone (except the photographer, of course) to leave the room and reflect on your emotions.

Father seeing the bride in her gown

This is the father's first view.

What are your thoughts on the first view? If you don't want to break the custom of the bridegroom not seeing you and your dress before the ceremony, this is another option, to have a special moment with your father and get some beautiful photographs.

Bride/ groom with parents and siblings

As you will have guessed, the whole getting ready part is my favourite part of the day, due to the opportunity to witness the family relationships, strong bonds and emotions, endless love, and the intimacy of the moment.

Bride and groom leaving the ceremony site  

It is the moment the ceremony is over, the stress has disappeared and only joy and happiness remains! The party and “happily ever after” can start! Remember those hormones - they are back to normal…

Formal photos of bride and groom with immediate family members from both sides

This is the first time that your families are united. From now on, or perhaps for some time already, you will need to strike a balance between your most favourite people and your in-laws for the most important dates, such as Christmas. But at least you can frame them all together in one photo for years to come…

Get photos with your best friends, especially those from school or university, as things change and you might lose touch over the years to come. You will still have a photo with them on your big day.

Ok, let’s add all the relatives here as well! You will probably decide to make a family tree in the future and you will have a chance to use the pictures of them when they looked their best ;)

Detail shots of the rings

 I have included the rings as a “must have” as I have just lost mine. Don't ask how…

Detail shots of wedding decorations, flowers, table settings and cake

This is something you are spending so much of your soul, effort and money on, to make it stand out and make it yours, but at the same time, it is the most fleeting moment. The flowers will wither, the food and cake will be cut and enjoyed by your guests and table will be cleared away. No leftovers for next day…

Detailed shots of the bride’s and bridesmaids’ bouquets

They last for a fraction of time, especially cut flowers left without water...

The photographs will be the only living proof in the days to come.

Your dress

You will never be this skinny again in your life. And, most likely, you will never take it to the cleaners (ok, I did take mine, but all the hand printed flowers floated away. Oops!).