Your Must-Have Wedding Ceremony Photos

A wedding ceremony is a formal event where two people exchange marriage vows and become legally and spiritually united. It is the heart of the big day when the procession, exchange of vows, exchange of rings, the kiss and recession all happen.

During a ceremony, the wedding party congregate to celebrate the union of two people in love. There is a lot to capture during a wedding ceremony.

Here are the photos you must have during your wedding ceremony.

1. Arrival of the Wedding Party.

The arrival of the wedding party is typically a highly anticipated moment during a wedding ceremony. It marks the formal beginning of the wedding and is usually the first time the bride and groom, as well as their wedding party, are seen by the guests. Before a ceremony, children will hand out orders of services and flowers fastened to buttonholes. These are some moments you will want to capture before the formalities begin.

2. The Groom & Groomsmen Take Their Places.

When the groom and groomsmen take their places in the church or ceremony location, it signifies the start of the wedding ceremony. The groom and groomsmen typically arrive at the ceremony location ahead of the bride and her wedding party. Traditionally, the groom and his groomsmen will stand at the front of the ceremony location, often on the right side, facing the congregation or guests. Take photos of the groom waiting in anticipation for the wedding to begin.

3. The Bride & Bridesmaids Arrive.

The arrival of the bride and bridesmaids at the church or ceremony location is a significant and highly anticipated moment during a wedding ceremony. They typically arrive together, usually by special transportation. At the ceremony location, the person conducting the ceremony will greet the bride and bridesmaids, who will also assist them in getting ready for the ceremony.

Take photos of these moments. Other must-have shots include the bridesmaids adjusting the bride’s veil. The bride with her father or significant other walking down the aisle. And the groom’s expression as he glances at the bride for the first time!

4. The Wedding Congregation & Location.

Take photos of the people who come together to witness and celebrate a wedding ceremony (i.e., the congregation). And more shots of the physical place where the wedding ceremony and/or reception takes place (i.e., the wedding location). These photos set the tone for the wedding and capture the overall atmosphere during the wedding ceremony.

5. Wedding Traditions & Rituals.

Wedding traditions and rituals vary greatly depending on the culture, religion, and personal preferences of the couple getting married. Capture these significant moments because the photos reflect the couples’ personalities and sometimes the effort they put into the planning.

6. Expressions of the Wedding Party.

Expressions of the wedding party during the ceremony include a variety of emotions and actions. For example, family and guests may shed tears of joy during the wedding ceremony as they witness the union of their loved ones. They may also express their happiness through laughter and smiles. These are just a few examples of expressions of the wedding party you will want to photograph during the wedding ceremony.

7. Candid Moments

Keep a keen eye on what is happening around you during the ceremony. Candid moments during a wedding ceremony are those unposed and natural moments. They often show the emotions and reactions of the couple and their guests during the ceremony. Some examples include the altar boy napping, the priest singing and the emotions of the couple and their guests during the ceremony. Candid moments provide an amusing record of events during the wedding ceremony that the couple most likely will have missed.

8. Exchange of Vows.

The exchange of vows is a traditional and significant part of a wedding ceremony. During this part of the ceremony, take photos of the bride and groom as they express their love and commitment to each other through promises or vows. Photos that show this intimate moment are often more valuable than those showing the reaction of the person speaking the vows. The couple’s reactions during the exchange of vows are a must-have moment to capture during the ceremony.

9. Exchange of Rings.

The exchange of rings is a traditional and significant part of many wedding ceremonies. During this part of the ceremony, the couple exchanges wedding rings. These are symbols of their commitment and love for each other. The exchange of rings sometimes involves laughter and smiles, especially when the best man can’t find them! Or if one of the wedding rings doesn’t fit!

10. The First Kiss.

Be prepared to take shots of the first kiss because it is usually a fleeting moment. It is typically the first public display of affection between the newlyweds as a married couple. Sometimes the person conducting the ceremony will ask the couple to repeat the embrace. After the kiss, the couple may turn to face their guests, who congratulate them with applause, cheers, or other forms of celebration. This moment is a must-have photo to capture too.

11. Emotional Reactions.

Wedding ceremonies are often emotionally charged events filled with joy, love, and happiness. After the first kiss, the married couple may punch the air or jump for joy. So, look out for emotional reactions after the embrace.

12. Signing of the Register.

After the wedding ceremony, the married couple and two witnesses will sign the marriage certificate or register, which is an official record of their marriage. Signing the register is a legal requirement in many countries and a significant part of a wedding ceremony. Look for candid moments to photograph during this moment because someone often says or does something funny!

13. Walk Down the Aisle.

The walk down the aisle is a traditional and symbolic part of many wedding ceremonies. It is the moment when the bride walks towards the altar or ceremonial area where the groom is waiting for her. The music will change to the processional song, and the bride and groom will begin their walk down the aisle. Guests will often stand as the newlyweds walk down the aisle, and turn to face them. Take photos of this beautiful and emotional moment.

14. Confetti Throwing.

Lastly, confetti throwing is a popular wedding tradition after the wedding ceremony, as the newly married couple exits the ceremony venue. Guests receive small bags or cones filled with confetti, rice, or flower petals. A good shot involves the couple walking through an aisle created by their guests, who stand on either side. Just ask the couple not to look at you during the confetti throwing. Otherwise, the photos will look staged and directed!