A wedding is not just an important event for a couple, but a collection of fleeting moments that tell a story of love, laughter and genuine emotion. Every look, every hug, every sincere tear deserves to be immortalised in photographs that will take you back to that magical day. But capturing those moments perfectly is no easy task. Whether you're a couple planning your big day or a photographer who wants to understand all the nuances of a wedding shoot, this guide is one of the keys to making sure you don't miss a thing. Get ready to immerse yourself in the art of flawless wedding photography with invaluable advice from the industry's leading talents.
Not Choosing Your Perfect Photographer
“The biggest mistake people make with wedding photoshoots is choosing the wrong photographer in the first place. Photography is a conversation between the photographer and all the elements of a photo, including you, filtered through their eye and technical process with a camera. Processes vary massively, as do styles, tastes, and perspectives. I think where people get lost in deciphering a photographer’s work is by focusing too much on the subject matter and not enough on how the photographer actually sees it. Yes, the dress, the floral arch, or the tablescape are beautiful, but they have little or nothing to do with the photographer. The photographer’s contribution lies in how they interpret it visually, the way they interact with people, and ultimately, how they see you and the world around them. An important question to ask yourself when looking at any photographer's work: Do you actually like this photographer's perspective, the way they interpret the subject matter stylistically, and how they see people? Or do you simply like the subject matter itself?”
Failing to Communicate Your Preferences to the Photographer
“A common oversight is not sharing a moodboard or discussing specific preferences with your photographer. Many couples assume "candid portraits" happen purely spontaneously, but capturing these moments often requires thoughtful guidance from an experienced photographer. Sharing your vision ensures the images align with your style and expectations, creating a seamless collaboration.”
Overly Focusing on Trends
“Be mindful of fleeting trends and prioritize timeless choices and details to ensure your photos feel just as meaningful years down the line.”
Allowing Stress to Overwhelm You Instead of Enjoying the Day
“So much of the ultimate look of your photos happens in the setup, but beyond that, when everything comes to life and it’s time for portraits on your wedding, the best thing you can do is let go of all stress and simply live in the day. Trust the photographer you have chosen, be with your people, and enjoy the time with your partner. Do you actually want photos of yourself stressing about the timeline, or do you want to remember the day carefree and full of joy?”
Focusing Too Much on Inspiration Instead of Embracing Creativity
“Showing your photographer Pinterest inspo might be tempting, but try not to have any preconceived ideas about what your wedding photos will look like. Instead, live in the moment with each other and leave room for your photographer to be inspired by your unique chemistry as a couple. Be open to the idea of creating one of a kind photos that can’t be duplicated.”
Failing to Trust Your Photographer
“I want couples to feel completely at ease, allowing their authentic selves to shine through. When you’re comfortable and relaxed, your connection with each other and your loved ones will naturally come to life. Surrounding yourself with professionals who truly understand your vision and share your values can make all the difference. When you trust your vendors, you can let go of any stress about the details and fully immerse yourself in the moment, allowing the day’s magic to unfold. Let go of expectations, and embrace the love and joy around you. Ultimately, it’s the moments when you feel most authentically yourselves that will become the memories you cherish forever.”
Rushing Through Getting-Ready Shots
“The "getting ready" moments are filled with anticipation, emotion, and special interactions with loved ones. To capture these memories fully, schedule hair, makeup, and preparation with extra buffer time. This allows your photographer to create stunning detail shots, bridal portraits, and candid moments during this intimate part of your day.”
Skipping the Couple's Private Photo Session
“One key piece of advice is to prioritize setting aside a few minutes during the day for a dedicated couple’s session. When there’s enough time planned, the couple can relax, feel at ease, and connect, which leads to the most natural and intimate photos. Rushing or skipping this moment often means missing out on some of the most meaningful images.”
Improper Photoshoot Time Management
“Trying to cram a full one-hour photoshoot into a packed wedding schedule can feel overwhelming. Instead, consider breaking it up into 2-3 shorter sessions (around 20 minutes each) at different times during the day. This approach keeps things relaxed, offers quality moments with your partner, and results in a diverse collection of beautiful imagery.”
