The Must-Have Moments for Your Wedding Album
Your wedding album is more than just a collection of photographs. It’s a tangible narrative of your story and memories that you’ll cherish for a lifetime. Beyond the expected snapshots of the ceremony and reception, there are countless moments and details throughout the wedding planning process that contribute to the story of your special day. I know you’re thinking this is something you can think about after the honeymoon and for the most part, that is true. But there are some things to think about and start collecting now as you begin your planning. Here’s how to ensure your wedding album is as unique and beautiful as your love story.
During the planning..
Write It Down
You’ve heard me say this a few times already. Write down your engagement story! Right now, it is probably very fresh in your mind and you think you will never forget it but trust me, you will forget parts. Check out my post “First Things First” for prompts on what to write down about that day.
Save the Dates & Invitations
Start your album with the very first elements of your wedding that your guests see: your save the dates and invitations. These pieces set the tone for your wedding and are a beautiful way to introduce the aesthetic and theme of your big day.
Photos
Take candid photos while you’re shopping with your maid of honor for table decorations, making invitations by hand with your cousin, building the arch with your mom and aunt. These moments will trigger many great memories of not only the wedding day but the help and fun you had planning it.
The Wedding…
Ask your photographer to capture:
The Keepsakes
Gather and photograph small keepsakes from your wedding day—think program cards, menu cards, favors, and any other special items that contributed to your day. These details are often forgotten over time but play a significant role in telling the story of your day.
The Details: Dress, Rings, and Decor
Before the whirlwind of the wedding day begins, take a moment to capture the details. Photograph your dress hanging gracefully, the rings nestled together, and the carefully chosen decorations that will set the scene for your ceremony and reception. These shots capture the essence of your wedding’s style and are often overlooked in the chaos of the day.
Behind the Scenes: Getting Ready
The intimate moments of getting ready with your bridal party or close family members are full of emotion and anticipation. Capture the laughter, the reflective moments, the bustling activity, and the quiet anticipation that fills the air.
The First Look
Whether it’s a first look with your partner or a reveal moment with a parent or bridal party, these reactions are priceless. The raw emotion and pure joy captured in these photographs are irreplaceable memories that you’ll look back on fondly.
The Vows: Handwritten Promises
If you and your partner write your own vows, include a photo of the handwritten pages in your album. These personal promises are the heart of your ceremony and capturing them in your album adds a deeply personal touch to your love story. You can also keep these and put them directly in your album if you are making a handmade one.
Candid Moments
While posed photographs are a must-have, candid shots of you, your partner, and your guests enjoying the day are what truly bring your wedding album to life. These spontaneous moments capture the genuine joy and love that surrounds your celebration. Everyone has a phone with a camera in their pocket so be sure to create a hashtag or tell them where they can upload the photos. The small instant cameras are always a hit and fun to see the photos next morning!
The Little Ones
If children are part of your wedding, make sure to capture their candid moments, too. From dancing on the dance floor to falling asleep on a chair, these shots add a sweet and often humorous element to your album.
The Send-Off
Your send-off is the grand finale of your wedding day. Whether it’s sparklers, confetti, or a classic car getaway, this moment symbolizes the beginning of your journey together. Capturing this farewell is a must for completing the narrative of your wedding day.
Remember, your wedding album is a living story, one that you can return to time and again to relive the magic of your special day. By capturing not just the big moments but also the small details and the emotions behind them, you create a timeless keepsake that tells the rich, full story of your love.
Remember, less is more
~ Melissa
