Ah, the wedding day! A magical whirlwind of love, laughter, and those fleeting moments you’ll want to hold onto tighter than your bouquet. Sure, the cake might get devoured and the flowers will eventually droop, but your wedding photos? They’re your timeless time capsules!
I won’t mention the basic photos like bride and groom portraits, bridal party photos, or the ceremony timeline — those are essential, and any good photographer will capture them. Instead, I want to focus on the moments that truly show the essence of your special day.
Here are 10 must-have wedding photos that will make you laugh, cry, and cherish forever:
1. The Meaningful Details
Every detail matters. Having photographed over 120 weddings — both small, intimate gatherings and large celebrations with over 200 guests — I’ve seen how much significance couples (brides, especially) place on specific details. It’s not just about the rings. It could be a great-grandparent’s watch, a hand-painted invitation, or a favourite flower in the bouquet. These sentimental items tell part of your love story and deserve to be captured.
2. Furry Friends in the Spotlight
If your pets are part of your family, include them in the photos! A picture of your dog in a bow tie or your cat curiously watching the festivities adds a heartwarming touch and makes your wedding album even more personal.
3. Honouring Your Heritage
As a photographer, I always make sure to capture moments that reflect a couple’s cultural or family traditions. Whether it’s a religious ceremony, a traditional dance, or a special blessing from an elder, these photos honour your heritage and make your wedding memories uniquely yours.
4. Candid, Raw Moments
The best photos are often unplanned! Laughter with bridesmaids, unexpected funny moments, and, of course, happy tears — these candid shots bring your wedding album to life, making it feel like you’re reliving the day with every turn of the page.
5. Cherished Family Bonds
A wedding isn’t just about the couple — it’s about family, too. It’s essential to set aside time for portraits with parents and grandparents. These images become even more meaningful over time and are often the ones couples cherish the most.
6. The Joy of Kids
If you’re including children in your wedding, their presence adds to the fun! Capturing them interacting with decorations, playing games, or stealing the spotlight on the dance floor results in some of the most delightful and heartfelt moments.
7. Sunset Portrait Perfection
This one is non-negotiable! Sunset portraits of the newlyweds are an absolute must. The golden hour light creates a magical and romantic atmosphere, giving these images an almost guaranteed place as wall art in your home.
8. Dance Floor Drama
From the tender first dance to the uninhibited energy of guests letting loose on the dance floor, these moments capture the joy and excitement of your celebration in the most dynamic way.
9. Late-Night Magic
Whether it’s sparklers, outdoor lanterns, or creative off-camera flashes, nighttime wedding photos have a dreamy, intimate feel. These shots create breathtaking, cinematic moments that stand out in any wedding album.
10. After-Party Fun
One of the reasons I love staying until the very end of a wedding is to capture the after-party. This is when only the closest friends and family remain, the atmosphere is relaxed, and genuine, heartfelt moments unfold. These photos will bring back laughter and nostalgia for years to come.
Capture Your Dream Wedding with MonaVira Photography
A wedding is more than just pictures — it’s a story. As a Vancouver Island wedding photographer, I see it as my mission to craft a visual narrative that preserves the love, emotions, and magic of your day. By including these must-have shots, you’ll have a treasure trove of emotions to revisit for years to come.
If you’re planning a wedding in Victoria, Sooke, or anywhere else in British Columbia, let’s chat! At MonaVira Photography, I specialize in capturing unforgettable moments, ensuring your love story is told with beauty, authenticity, and heart. Because you deserve it.
Serving Greater Victoria Victoria, Vancouver Island, and beyond. Let’s make magic together!