We rounded up some industry experts to help ensure that you don’t miss out on capturing some special moments.
Photo: Amy Kolo
Putting together a list of must-haves for your wedding album is a no-brainer — not only is it essential that you and your loved ones are prioritized, but all of the hard work put into planning and coordinating every last detail should be given a spotlight as well. But what if we told you that there are some often-overlooked shots that can add that extra sparkle to your wedding memories?
"The wedding day can fly by so quickly that it is understandable that some potential photo ops get overlooked. One such opportunity is a private "room reveal" for the couple. Not only does that allow the couple to truly appreciate the design and implementation of months of hard work, but it is also a chance to get candids of their reaction. The couple can also then have a few posed portraits in their dream reception space and maybe even an intimate twirl on the dance floor before the party starts!" —Amy Kolodziej, Amy Kolo Photography
"Destination wedding couples should take advantage of the beauty of their destination, including going beyond the beach and exploring the resort grounds. We've seen beautiful wedding portraits in lush palm jungles, secret gardens, sleek yet charming building backdrops, rooftop terraces, etc. Don't be afraid to change things up and have your photographer suggest unique settings for your wedding portraits." —Jen Avey, Destination Weddings Travel Group
"Some portraits that are often overlooked on the wedding day are of the parents of the bride and the parents of the groom. Portraits of the parents with their son or daughter are often captured during getting ready photos, and portraits of parents with the couple are photographed during family formals. But, often, a portrait of just the parental couple is left off of couples' photo lists." —Stacie Marshall, Marshall Arts Photography
"You have likely put a lot of thought into a note or gift for your future spouse on the wedding day. It is easy to get caught up in the excitement and want to open it the moment it is delivered to your getting-ready suite. We recommend holding off on opening gifts from any loved ones until your documentary team arrives so that the emotion and surprise can be caught on photo and video." —Tracy Autem, Tracy Autem & Lightly Photography
"We love a good champagne pop! If you're fans of bubbly, this is a super cute shot that can really give you something special to look back on. You'll want to remember how you were the life of the party when you're looking back decades from now. On that note, we always recommend that couples spend a few songs dancing together on the dance floor. It may sound obvious, but tons of couples spend the night dancing with their respective friends and barely end up seeing each other. Spending a few fast songs dancing one-on-one can make for some incredible photo opportunities that look back on your super fun reception." —Megan Breukelman, Megan & Kenneth
"Candid moments right before the ceremony while everyone is waiting. That could be with parents, a sibling, a best person/person of honor, or a child. This is when the anticipation of what's to come really sinks in. And those moments can be the most beautiful, fun and touching. But this only works if you have multiple photographers so that nothing gets missed." —Jamie Chang, Mango Muse Events
"Parent reaction during the first dance. I love the parents' reaction during the first dance, especially when the dance is choreographed. I always have my second shooter focus on the parents' reactions during key moments such as a dip or a lift, and then our couple gets to see how excited and joyous their parents were during this very special dance." —Melani Lust, Melani Lust Photography
"As a floral designer, I am always hoping to see the couple with their flowers — bouquet for the first look, in front of the ceremony arch, a room reveal capture. These are always the ones I look for when I get to see the galleries from the photographer. Also, make sure that the photographer captures your centerpieces! You've spent a lot of money and your florist's talents to make them look amazing — it needs to be captured for future eyes to look back on." —Mandy Hess, MJM Designs
Your wedding album will last for years to come, so consider having your photographer add some extra shots that you can look back on with your spouse. Future-you will be grateful for the added details!
Meghan Ely is the owner of wedding PR and wedding marketing firm OFD Consulting. Ely is a sought-after speaker, adjunct professor in the field of public relations, and a self-professed royal wedding enthusiast.
