Every wedding has its own rhythm, but there are a handful of classic moments no photo album should be without. If you are a new wedding photographer in Chatham or just getting started in the industry, these are the key shots to prioritize, while still adding your own artistic twist.
1. The Morning Moments
The hours leading up to the ceremony are often full of quiet emotion, nervous excitement, and beautiful candid moments. This is the time to document both the details and the interactions—dresses hanging delicately, close-ups of shoes, flowers, jewelry, and makeup touches.
For brides, don’t miss the emotional reveal when a parent or close friend sees them in their dress for the first time. For grooms, capture the sharp accessories, bonding with the best man, or heartfelt exchanges with family. Depending on the schedule and logistics, aim to split time between both parties or cover one thoroughly before heading to the venue to photograph the groom’s side before the ceremony begins.
2. The First Look or Aisle Arrival
Whether the couple opts for a private first look or the traditional aisle reveal, these moments are always emotionally charged—and absolutely worth catching from multiple angles. Be ready for that powerful reaction the couple has when they see each other all dressed up for the first time.
Position yourself discreetly so you can capture genuine expressions and reactions, not just from the couple, but from the guests as well. In Chatham’s diverse venues, from rustic barns to elegant halls, lighting and background play a big role—scout your angles ahead of time.
3. The First Kiss
This is the signature image from any ceremony and often ends up framed in homes or featured in thank-you cards. Time your shots carefully and make sure your camera settings are dialled in!
Also keep your eyes peeled for unscripted kisses throughout the day, especially during quiet moments or joyful celebrations. Consider suggesting a sweet forehead kiss or a spontaneous twirl right after the ceremony for extra emotion-packed photos.
4. First Dance Vibes
As the lights dim and the music plays, the first dance offers an intimate moment between the newlyweds, surrounded by their loved ones. This is your chance to highlight not just the couple’s connection, but also the ambiance of the reception space.
Ask ahead if there are any surprises in store—like a choreographed spin or a dramatic dip—so you’re ready. Make sure your flash, camera settings, and lenses are suited to low-light scenes so you can preserve the atmosphere without missing a beat.
5. Let the Celebration Begin
From heartfelt toasts to wild dancefloor moments, the party portion of the wedding is where personalities shine. Candid shots during the reception are gold—laughter, hugs, high-fives, and all-out dance battles. A fast lens paired with a reliable flash will help you handle changing lighting conditions and keep up with the action.
And of course, make sure to capture the cake cutting! It’s a classic tradition that couples often look forward to, and it rounds out the day’s story beautifully.
These moments form the heart of every wedding album. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a Chatham photographer just starting out, making sure you capture these five essential scenes will ensure your clients have a timeless visual story of their day.