Must-Have Shots to Ask Your Photographer for on Your Wedding Day: A Guide from a South Texas Wedding Photographer
Your wedding day is one of the most significant moments of your life, and having the right photographs to capture it is essential. Whether you're planning a romantic celebration in San Antonio or a lively wedding in Austin, there are certain shots that can make your wedding album truly unforgettable. As a wedding photographer based in South Texas, I’ve had the privilege of capturing beautiful moments in this vibrant region, and I want to share a few must-have shots you should ask your photographer for to make sure your memories are preserved perfectly.
1. The First Look
If you’re having a "first look" moment with your partner before the ceremony, make sure to capture it! The raw emotion of seeing each other for the first time in your wedding attire is a moment you’ll want to relive. Whether it's in a scenic spot by the San Antonio Riverwalk or a quiet corner in a lush garden outside Austin, this intimate moment is priceless. A skilled photographer will capture your expressions from different angles, ensuring you get a mix of candid and posed shots.
2. Bridal Party Fun
Your bridal party is your support crew, your closest friends and family who’ve been by your side throughout your journey. You’ll want a few fun, lighthearted shots of the group. A little humor and movement can create timeless, candid photos that reflect the joy and laughter of your day. The iconic Austin skyline or a rustic barn in the Texas Hill Country could be the perfect backdrop for these shots, so don’t forget to ask for these candid moments.
3. Candid Guest Interactions
One of the most beautiful things about weddings is the community of people celebrating your love. You might be busy, but your photographer can catch moments of your guests laughing, dancing, and mingling. It’s these unscripted moments that often bring the most emotion to an album, and capturing your friends and family enjoying themselves will add an extra layer of warmth to your wedding memories.
4. The Ceremony
The ceremony itself is, of course, a must-have. Your photographer should focus on capturing the major moments—like the exchange of vows, the first kiss, and the reactions of both sets of parents. But don't forget about the smaller details, too: the way your partner looks at you, the hands holding each other, or the teary eyes of your family members. If you're getting married in a beautiful venue like the historic San Fernando Cathedral or the serene gardens of the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center in Austin, be sure to ask your photographer to focus on the grandeur of the location as well as the intimate moments.
5. Golden Hour Portraits
South Texas offers some of the most beautiful sunsets and golden hour light, especially in the areas around Austin and San Antonio. Golden hour portraits, taken just before the sun sets, can produce some of the most stunning and romantic photos. Whether you're at a winery in Fredericksburg or at a ranch near San Antonio, be sure to carve out a few minutes for these breathtaking shots. The warm, glowing light will make you and your partner look absolutely radiant.
6. Details, Details, Details
While the big moments are important, the small details often tell the true story of your wedding day. Ask your photographer to capture the little things that make your celebration unique: your wedding rings, your invitation suite, the floral arrangements, and your shoes. These shots are perfect for remembering the fine craftsmanship and thought that went into planning every aspect of your special day. If you really want to prioritize detail shots on your wedding day, I would recommend hiring a second shooter!
7. The Reception Dance Floor
There’s no better way to relive the energy and excitement of your wedding than through the dance floor shots. Whether it’s your first dance as a couple or the hilarious antics of your guests busting a move, these photos will capture the fun, joy, and love that fills the room. Austin and San Antonio are known for their incredible live music scenes, so if you have a live band or DJ, make sure to capture the crowd’s energy as they dance the night away!
8. The Exit
Your grand exit is the final moment of your wedding day, and it’s one that you’ll want to remember. Whether it’s a bubble send-off, a shower of petals, or sparklers lighting your way to your getaway car, make sure your photographer is ready to capture the magic. A good photographer will get the perfect shot of you and your new spouse walking away from the reception with joy and excitement on your faces—perfect for that last “wow” photo of the night.
9. Couple's Portraits
Of course, the couple’s portraits are the heart of your wedding album. These can be taken throughout the day—some posed and some candid, depending on your style. Whether it’s a quiet moment together in the Texas Hill Country or a playful shot with the urban backdrops of downtown Austin, these portraits are your chance to show off your unique love story. Make sure to work with your photographer on locations and poses that reflect your personalities.
10. Family Formal Shots
Though they may feel a little staged, family formal shots are essential to capturing the legacy of your wedding day. This is the one time everyone is together, so be sure to have a few traditional group photos with your closest relatives. Whether it’s your immediate family or extended family from across the state, these shots will be treasured for generations to come.
Final Thoughts
Your wedding day will be full of beautiful moments, and the right photographer will capture every detail. As a wedding photographer in South Texas, it’s my job to tell your unique story through images that you’ll cherish for years to come. While your day will be a blur, having the right shots will help you relive every precious moment.
When planning your wedding in cities like San Antonio or Austin, be sure to work closely with your photographer to create a shot list that reflects your vision, your love, and the beauty of South Texas.
Happy planning, and I can’t wait to capture your special day!