Your wedding day will move fast—between the vows, the happy tears, the dancing, and the hugs from loved ones you haven’t seen in ages. It’s an emotional whirlwind, and photography is what allows you to relive it again and again. As much as candid, documentary-style photos capture the realness of the day, there are a few essential photos you absolutely must make time for. Trust me—your future self (and your family!) will thank you.

Here’s a guide to the wedding day photos you don’t want to miss.

Smile-and-Look-at-the-Camera Portraits

Yes, candid moments are beautiful—but don’t skip the classic “smile and look at the camera” shots. These traditional images are often the ones parents frame, grandparents display, and you’ll treasure when flipping through your wedding album years from now. Mix them in with your photojournalistic coverage for a well-rounded gallery that tells the full story of your day.

Solo Portraits of the Couple

Individual bridal portraits and groom portraits are more than just pretty pictures. These quiet moments give you space to breathe, reflect, and feel amazing in your wedding attire. They’re timeless, elegant, and often turn out to be some of the most striking photos of the day.

The Venue & All the Gorgeous Details

You chose your venue for a reason—it felt like the perfect backdrop for your story. Be sure to document it! Wide shots of the space, images of the ceremony and reception setups, and close-ups of thoughtful details (florals, signage, candles, table settings, glassware—you name it) help preserve the magic of your celebration. Down the road, those details will help bring you right back to how it all felt.

The Dress (Yes, Seriously)

Even if it feels a little cheesy in the moment, don’t skip dedicated photos of your wedding dress. Whether it’s hanging beautifully before you slip it on or styled creatively at your venue, these images become even more meaningful over time. If you pass your dress on or pack it away, you’ll still have stunning photos to share with future generations.

Your Guests—Mingling or Posed

Some of the best wedding photos are of the people who came to celebrate you. If you have a second shooter, they can help capture portraits of your guests during cocktail hour or candid moments throughout the reception. Seeing everyone laughing, hugging, and enjoying themselves adds warmth and personality to your final gallery.

Grandparents

Photos with your grandparents are priceless. Full stop. Whether you pull them in for a formal portrait or let the photographer quietly capture moments of them throughout the day, do it. These may end up being the last professional photos taken of them, and they’ll be cherished forever. If Grandma resists, tell her it’s for you. She won’t be able to say no to that.

Photos with Your Parents

These are some of the most emotional and heartfelt images of the day. Whether it’s a quiet first look, a dance, or just a quick photo together, these moments are incredibly meaningful. You’ll both be glad to have them.

Your Best Friends

You’ve been through so much together—your wedding day is another chapter. Be sure to take fun, relaxed photos with your besties. Let your personalities shine! These images capture your support system and the joy they bring to your life.

First Look Photos (If You’re Doing One)

A first look is an intimate, emotional moment between just the two of you. Capturing it on camera creates a series of raw, real images that many couples end up loving even more than their ceremony photos. Whether you cry, laugh, or just take a deep breath together—these photos are gold.

Final Thoughts:

There’s no “right” way to photograph a wedding—just the way that feels most you. But making time for these key images ensures you’ll walk away with a wedding gallery that feels complete, personal, and full of heart.

At Forgette Photography, we blend artistic documentary photography with intentional portraits to give you the best of both worlds. If you’re planning your day and want photos that feel real and timeless—we’d love to help tell your story.