Let’s face it—it’s easy for the spotlight to fall solely on the bride when it comes to wedding portraits. But the groom deserves to be captured in all his glory, too. From quiet moments throughout the day to the more grand and emotional ones, documenting the groom’s perspective is just as essential. Whether he’s camera-ready or a bit more reserved, the right direction from your photographer can lead to some of the most treasured frames. Ahead, 50 must-save portrait ideas that celebrate the groom, his style, his emotions, and his role in the love story.
The Art of Getting Ready
The quiet anticipation of the morning-of is always worth documenting. Whether he’s adjusting his cufflinks, tying his shoes, or sharing a laugh with his best man, the getting ready portraits show the calm before the celebration. These candid moments offer a glimpse into his side of the day, grounding the narrative in intimacy and style. As a bonus, they also highlight his suit, accessories, and any sentimental keepsakes.
Calvin Klein, Riley Combs, Katarina Fedora,
Zeven Media, Berlez, Stefano Santucci
Front & Center
Place the groom in the middle of his groomsmen for a dynamic, editorial-style portrait. Whether it's a candid moment or all posing seriously, the symmetry and energy of this setup always delivers. It’s a visual way to celebrate friendship and support while giving the groom his spotlight moment.
Sophia Noelle, Richard Biedul, Bianca Virtue
Boy Meets Bouquet
It might seem unexpected, but handing the groom the bridal bouquet makes for a charming portrait. It brings a sense of romanticism and lightness to the gallery while still tying him into the overall aesthetic. Whether he’s holding it seriously or in a nonchalant pose, it’s a frame that often ends up being a favorite.
Atic Snap, Favian Di Owen, Adam Gallagher,
Dmitry Yermuzevich, Marie Malandain, Handagon
The First Look
First look photos are full of genuine, unfiltered emotion, and that includes the groom’s reaction. Whether he’s seeing his partner for the first time or being seen himself, this moment often captures utter joy and deep affection. Be sure to get the groom's expression from multiple angles for a well-rounded story. These are the types of images that bring people to tears in the best way.
Bring Me Somewhere Nice, Beba Vowels, Alyssa Belkaci
A Quiet Kind of Cool
Perfect for the camera-shy groom, this pose is effortlessly cool and naturally candid. Ask the photographer to capture him looking off to the side, slightly turned away from the lens. It creates a moodier, editorial feel without forcing a direct gaze. The result is a quietly powerful portrait that still feels true to him.
Kyla Jeanette, Alexa Curly, Pietro Groff,
Bring Me Somewhere Nice, Pablo Laguia, Erin Leydon
The Beautifully Unposed
Weddings are emotional, and those authentic moments deserve to be preserved. Whether it’s a teary-eyed groom during vows or a belly laugh mid-speech, these candid frames are often the most powerful. They reveal vulnerability, connection, and humanity in ways that posed portraits can't. Don’t shy away from the imperfect; they often tell the most beautiful stories.
Kristen Marie Parker, Bianca Virtue, Bottega 53
The Formal Portrait
Classic and refined, the formal portrait is a staple in any wedding album. Have the groom stand alone, centered in the frame, making direct eye contact with the camera. It’s confident, timeless, and frames him as the leading man of the day. To elevate the shot, consider dramatic lighting or an architectural background.
Katarina Fedora, P Johnson Tailors, Mattias Björklund,
The Hidden Suite, Paul Phung, Richard Biedul
Outfit Details & Closeups
A well-chosen suit deserves its close-up just as much as a bridal gown does. Zoom in on fabric textures, button details, cufflinks, or a sentimental watch for a refined look at the groom’s style. Don’t forget a ring shot post-ceremony—his is just as symbolic.
Nisi, Yesley, The Shalom Imaginative
Take a Seat
Cool, calm and collected. Have the groom take a seat for a relaxed, effortlessly stylish portrait. Whether he’s leaning back in a lounge chair or casually crossing one ankle over the other, this setup creates a modern, editorial shot. It also gives him space to feel more natural and less posed.
Alex Bramall, Denis Cebulec, Richard Biedul,
Richard Biedul, Bottega 53, Stephanie Quin
Cheers to the Newlyweds
A drink in hand and a smile on his face—this is a moment worth capturing. Perhaps it’s a quiet sip of whiskey or a bubbly-filled toast, either way it signals that the celebration has begun. It’s a charming, lived-in portrait that feels both sophisticated and spontaneous.
