What are the must-have wedding photos that are the most important part of your wedding day?


Aside from your marriage and eating the cake, your wedding photos are likely to be the only tangible memory you'll have of your wedding forever more. As part of my wedding workflow, I work with clients to figure out which photos are most meaningful for them. Some brides might prefer a mix of details, couple portraits & candids, while other brides might just prefer documentary wedding photography. Other couples want photos with their families and friends. A lot can happen on your wedding day, having a conversation about this ahead of time sets the pace. It also means your wedding photographer & you are on the same page when it comes to what type of imagery you want to capture on your big day.


To give you an example an 8-hour wedding day photography coverage typically includes coverage of the morning preparations, the ceremony, and the reception. During the morning preparations, your photographer will capture the bride and groom getting ready, along with any details such as the dress, shoes, and flowers. This is a great opportunity to capture candid and emotional moments as the couple gets ready for their big day.


During the ceremony, your photographer will capture all the important moments, such as the couple's first look, the exchange of vows, and the ring exchange. This is also a great opportunity for candid shots of the guests as they witness the ceremony.


After the ceremony, your photographer will typically capture family and couple portraits. This is a great opportunity for the couple to have more formal and posed photographs taken with their family and friends or this might not be your jam at all and you might opt for a candid documentary approach to couple portraits. Whatever your vibe is, make sure you're on the same page with your photographer ahead of your wedding to see what's important to you. Your photographer may also capture the couple's first kiss as a married couple. Gross but has to be done!


During the reception, your photographer will capture fun, wild shots of your guests as they dance and celebrate, along with any special moments such as speeches, cake cutting, and the first dance. Your photographer can also cover the sunset and night photos, think sparklers or fireworks!


Overall, 8-hour wedding day photography coverage allows the photographer to capture all the important moments of the wedding day and provides a comprehensive story of the couple's special day.

The Invitation Suit

Some photographers will ask you to send your invitation suite so they can photograph it in advance of your wedding using props. While other photographers prefer to photograph the invitation suite the day of the wedding. So it can be placed with sentimental items in your home or venue. The above invitation suit was shot using the bride's christening gown & items from her home. To learn more - click here

Bridal details


Bridal Details: From the dress, to the shoes, to the jewelry, these details are what make the bride feel extra special. I'll make sure to capture all those little details that make the whole look come together.

Beauty Moments: From the hair and makeup to the final touches, these moments are a great way to capture the bride's transformation into a stunning bride.

Getting ready photos


Getting ready photos are a popular way to document the candid and emotional moments leading up to the ceremony. These photos can capture the excitement and anticipation of the bride, her family and her bridesmaids as they prepare for the big day, and can include shots of hair and makeup being done, dresses being put on, and other candid moments.

Bridal portraits


Bridal portraits are a great way for a wedding photographer to capture stunning and elegant images of the bride on her special day. These portraits typically feature the bride alone, in her wedding dress, and can be taken in a variety of settings, such as in a beautiful garden or a grand ballroom. They are great opportunity for the bride to have some alone time with the camera and to feel special and beautiful.

Additionally, bridal portraits are also an important part of the photographic story of the wedding day. They can be used to create beautiful albums, wall art, or prints that the couple can treasure for years to come. Furthermore, these portraits can also be shared with family and friends, and can be used to create a beautiful and timeless visual record of the wedding day.

Moreover, bridal portraits are a great way for the photographer to showcase their skill and artistry. They allow the photographer to use different lighting techniques, poses and angles to create beautiful, flattering images of the bride.

Bridal party portraits & brides' family portraits


Bridal portraits are a gorgeous way for a wedding photographer to capture stunning and elegant images of the bride on her special day. These portraits typically feature the bride alone, in her wedding dress. They can be taken in a variety of settings, such as a picturesque garden or a grand ballroom. This is a great opportunity for the bride to spend some alone time with the camera and to feel special and beautiful.

Additionally, bridal portraits are also an invaluable part of the photographic story of the wedding day. They can be used to create beautiful albums, wall art, or prints that the couple can treasure for years to come. Furthermore, these portraits can also be shared with family and friends, and can be used to create a beautiful and timeless visual record of the wedding day.

Moreover, bridal portraits are a great way for photographers to showcase their skills and artistry. With them, the photographer can create beautiful, flattering images of the bride by using different lighting techniques, poses, and angles.

Bridal bouquet


Photographing a bridal bouquet is a way to preserve a memory of the flowers and colors that were a part of the couple's special day. It can also be used to create a visual representation of the overall theme and aesthetic of the wedding. Additionally, a bridal bouquet photograph can be used for thank-you cards, wedding album, or even as a keepsake for the couple. Furthermore, it can be a great addition for professional photographer portfolio.

Groom details

Capturing groom details in photos on a wedding day is important for several reasons. Firstly, it allows for a complete representation of the couple's memorable day and helps to tell the story of the wedding. Secondly, it can help to create a more balanced set of photographs that include both the bride and groom. Thirdly, it helps to personalize the wedding story and gives the groom a chance to showcase his personal style and taste. Additionally, groom details can be a great add-on to the photographer's portfolio as it shows their ability to capture different types of subjects and not just focusing on the bride. Finally, these images can also serve as a special keepsake for the groom and his family, and will be cherished for years to come.

The first look


A relatively new feature to the Iirsh wedding scene, a first look wedding photo is a type of photograph taken before the ceremony. In this photograph, the bride and groom see each other for the first time on their wedding day. It's an opportunity for the couple to have a private romantic moment together before the ceremony, and it allows for more relaxed and intimate photographs. 

During the first look, the couple is usually alone or accompanied by the photographer, and they can take their time to take in the moment and share their emotions. This can provide a great opportunity for candid and emotional photographs, as well as more formal portraits. Many couples choose to do a first look for practical reasons such as having more time for photographs before the ceremony. This can also ease the stress of the day. Some couples choose not to have a first look, keeping the tradition of the couple seeing each other for the first time at the ceremony.

Walking down the isle

Capturing photos of the bride walking down the aisle is a traditional and important moment in a wedding ceremony. It marks the beginning of the ceremony and the start of the couple's new life together. It is an emotional moment for the bride, groom, and the guests, and it is one of the most iconic images of a wedding day. It is a moment that the couple and their families will look back on for years to come. The photos of the bride walking down the aisle can also be used to tell the story of the wedding day, and to document the couple's journey to the altar. Furthermore, it can be a great addition to the wedding album or to be shared with the family and friends. Additionally, it captures the details of the ceremony's decor, such as the flowers, the aisle, and the background, which can add to the overall aesthetic of the photographs.

Candid moments during the ceremony

Yes, it is possible to have candid photos of guests during the ceremony. Candid photos are a great way to capture the emotions and reactions of the guests as they witness the couple exchange their vows and become husband and wife. These photos can add a personal touch to the wedding album, and they can help to tell the story of the ceremony from the perspective of the guests. Capturing candid photos of the guests during the ceremony can be done by positioning the photographer around the ceremony area, or by having multiple photographers to capture different angles and perspectives. It's important to talk to your photographer about your preferences and to make sure that they understand that you would like to have candid photos of the guests.

It's important to note that it's always best to get permission from the guests before capturing their images, especially if they are not comfortable with being photographed.

Exchanging of rings

Capturing the ring exchange at a wedding or elopement ceremony is an important aspect of wedding photography because it marks the formal and legal binding of the couple. The exchange of rings is a symbolic moment that represents the couple's commitment to each other, and it is one of the most meaningful parts of the ceremony. It's an emotional moment that the couple will cherish for the rest of their lives, and it's also a great moment to capture the couple's expressions and emotions.

Furthermore, the ring exchange also serves as a visual representation of the couple's commitment to each other, and it's a great way to showcase the wedding bands and other details. Many couples choose to have photographs of the ring exchange displayed in their home as a reminder of their special day. Additionally, it can be a great addition to the wedding album, and it can be shared with family and friends.

It's important to note that the ring exchange moment happens in a blink of an eye, that's why having an experienced photographer is crucial as they can anticipate the moment and be ready to capture it.

First kiss portrait

Yes, a wedding photographer can capture the couple's first kiss as a married couple. This is a significant moment in the ceremony, it marks the end of the ceremony and the couple's official union. It is also a great way to capture the emotions and excitement of the couple as they seal their marriage with a kiss.

It's important to note that the first kiss can happen in a blink of an eye, that's why it's important to communicate with your photographer in advance to make sure they know when and where the kiss will happen, and that they are in a good position to capture the moment. Also, it is important to be mindful of the lighting conditions, background, and composition when capturing this moment.

It's also important to consider the couple's preference, some couple may prefer to keep this moment private and intimate, so it's good to discuss this with your photographer and make sure that everyone is comfortable with the level of coverage for this moment.

Overall, capturing the first kiss as a married couple is a great way to document the couple's union and to create a lasting memory of their special day.

The Exit

The exit is a great opportunity for a couple to be captured in a fun and candid way. Throw your bouquet up in the air and celebrate in style! Often couples may have a confetti throw at this point or a guard of honour! What ever your jam, make your entrance a grand one.

Newlywed couple portraits


Capturing romantic yet natural newlywed photos can be a challenge, especially if the couple is camera-shy. Here are a few tips that can help:

  1. Get a photographer who will build rapport with the couple: Before the wedding day, it's important to build a relationship with the couple and make them feel comfortable. This will help to create a more relaxed and natural atmosphere during the photo shoot. It sounds so simple but it really does make the world of difference.
  2. A great photographer who will give guidance but not too much: Give the couple some guidance on how to pose or interact with each other, but also give them the space to be themselves. The key is to find a balance between directing the couple and letting them be natural.
  3. Use a candid approach: Try to capture the couple in candid moments, such as when they are laughing or talking to each other. This will help to create a more natural and relaxed atmosphere.
  4. Use prompts: Use prompts or activities that can help the couple to forget about the camera and focus on each other. This can be something like asking the couple to tell each other a secret or to recreate their first dance.
  5. Find the right location and lighting: A good location and lighting can help to create a romantic and natural atmosphere. Look for a location that has a lot of natural light or that has a beautiful view.
  6. Be patient: Remember that some people are naturally camera-shy, so be patient and understand that it may take a bit of time for the couple to feel comfortable in front of the camera.

By using these tips, you should be able to capture romantic and natural photos of the newlyweds, even if they are camera-shy. Remember to communicate with the couple and make sure that they are comfortable with the process, that way you can create beautiful memories for them to cherish for a lifetime.

Wedding party portraits


Wedding party portraits: Wedding party portraits are incredibly important because they capture the joy and love shared between the couple, their family and friends on their special day. These photos will serve as a lasting reminder of the people who shared in their happiness and supported them on their big day. These photos also serve as a great way to document the relationships and bonds between the couple and their loved ones.

Wedding Guests

Don't forget lots of candid shots of all your nearest and dearest! Grandarents, godparents, parents, siblings, aunts, uncles, cousins, school friends, uni friends, work colleagues! You name it, the list goes on! You can never underestimate how much these photos will meal down the line!

Looking to book a nice relaxed wedding photographer?

Well you've come to the right place!


So, if you're looking for a photographer who will capture all the special moments of your big day, including those must-have wedding party portraits, don't hesitate to get in touch with me!

I would be honored to be a part of your big day and to help you create beautiful memories that will last a lifetime. Contact me today to book your wedding photography package!

Contact me

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