“What Do We Do Now?” – 10 Wedding Photography Tips for Couples Who Want Real Moments (Not Awkward Poses)

Wedding Day Moments Nobody Prepares You For (But I Will!)

This isn’t your average wedding photography tips for couples blog post. I’m not going to give you a generic list like “make a shot list” (please don’t) or “pose like this” (double no). Instead, I’m going to walk you through those real-life, slightly awkward moments that catch couples off guard on the day – and offer a few ideas to help you feel more relaxed, more present, and more you.

“What do we do now?” That’s the question I hear most often – usually right after the cake has been wheeled in or when the confetti cannons have gone off. And honestly? It makes total sense. You’re not professional cake-cutters. You’ve never walked down the aisle while 100 people watch you in silence. And let’s face it – no one prepares you for the “wedding-y” bits between the big moments.

Here’s the truth: the more confident and comfortable you feel, the better your wedding photos will be. You don’t need to rehearse your cake cutting or choreograph your first dance. You just need someone to remind you that you’re doing great – and that it’s okay to laugh your way through it all.

And that’s what we’re here for. I’m Marta (and together with my husband Artur), we’ve photographed weddings since 2012. We don’t just shoot pretty pictures – we tell love stories that feel real, fun, and a little bit magical.

Let’s dive into the real tips no one tells you about – the ones that actually make a difference.

1 The Morning Madness: Getting Ready Without the Stress

Let’s be honest – the wedding morning is pure chaos. The playlist is on, the prosecco’s open, there’s steam, makeup brushes, hair spray clouds, emotional bridesmaids, and someone always says “Wait, where’s the bouquet?” at least twice.

Here’s how to make your morning less manic, more magic – and get gorgeous photos without turning it into a fashion shoot:

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1. Group Pics in the Morning? Only If You Really Want To.
Sure, it’s lovely to have a photo of you and your girls in matching gowns. But don’t stress if it doesn’t happen. I’d much rather capture the real moments – your mum tearing up when she sees you in your dress, the laughter when someone burns their finger on the straighteners.
If we’ve got time, great. But if not, I promise we’ll have plenty of opportunities later.

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2. Want Layflat Detail Shots? Put Everything in One Place.
If you’d love a flatlay of your perfume, jewellery, stationery, shoes – amazing. Just gather it all in one spot before I arrive, and I’ll quietly get those shots while you’re sipping fizz and enjoying the moment. No interruptions. No chaos. Just pretty pics, done with zero stress.

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3. Hair & Makeup Creators: Schedule Their Content Time.
This one’s a biggie. Most hair and makeup artists these days will want to snap content for their socials. That’s totally fine (they’re running a business too!), but I’ve seen this eat into our time – especially when you’re meant to be stepping into your dress or having a beautiful moment with your dad.
If you’re happy for your glam squad to create content, just plan for it in the morning timeline. Everyone wins.

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4. We Capture Emotions, Not Perfection.
Please don’t worry about everything looking “done.” The mess, the nerves, the excitement – that’s the real stuff. That’s what you’ll want to remember. I’ve been doing this since 2012, and trust me, the best photos always come from the chaos.

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✨ Bonus Tip: Keep the Energy Calm.
If you can, keep the room where you’re getting ready tidy-ish – at least the bit near the windows (hello, best light). And if someone’s stressing you out, politely send them to go “check on the flowers.” 😅 Your energy matters.

2. The Ceremony: Just Breathe and Be in the Moment

This might just be the most anticipated part of your wedding day, and one of the most powerful wedding photography tips for couples is this: slow down and stay present. It sounds obvious, but emotions run high and things tend to move fast – so fast, in fact, that many couples later say it felt like a blur.

So here’s your gentle reminder: walk slowly, look at each other, and take a few deep breaths. This is your moment, not a performance. Tune in to your emotions, your partner, the gravity and joy of what’s happening. Forget about the guests, the logistics, and yes – even the cameras.

💡 Photography tip: If your registrars or officiant allow it, I’ll take a photo of you signing the register and then one with your witnesses. But what matters most isn’t staging a perfect picture – it’s capturing how it felt. And that happens best when you’re truly present with each other.

3. Confetti & That “What Now?” Moment

Here’s one of my favourite wedding photography tips for couples: embrace the chaos – but plan just enough to enjoy it.

Let’s start with confetti 🎉
There’s no such thing as too much confetti. Honestly, go wild. Think big handfuls, not dainty little sprinkles. If you want that magical confetti shot, choose colours that contrast with your surroundings and outfits (white confetti on a white dress = invisible). And whatever you do – don’t rush through it! Walk slowly, look at each other, laugh if it gets in your mouth (it will), and soak up the moment. Trust me, the slower the walk, the more epic the pictures.

4. Group Photos: Be Kind to Your Cheeks (And Your Guests)

Let’s be honest: group shots can be the least fun part of the day for everyone involved – unless we do them right.

Start with the Essentials
The best time to do group photos is not immediately after the ceremony. Give yourselves about 15 minutes to soak it all in – hug your nan, grab a drink, breathe. Then we’ll dive into the group shots, starting with the most important people: close family, wedding party, those must-have core groups.

Short, Sweet, and Strategic
Keep the list short and focused. The longer it gets, the more your cheeks will start plotting revenge. Seriously – “smile fatigue” is real. That glazed grin you get after the 27th “cheese” is nobody’s favourite look. If you want more group combos later, we can absolutely do that. Just spread them out so you (and your guests) stay sane.

Phones and Keys, Be Gone!
Tell your guests ahead of time – phones, wallets, and car keys must exit the pockets. They show up in photos more than you’d think (especially in fitted suits), and they’re a nightmare to edit. Trust me, there’s nothing quite like a big square phone ruining a beautifully tailored suit.

Bouquets for Everyone
Make sure all bridesmaids and flower carriers have their bouquets with them for the group shots. No one wants to be the only one holding a mimosa instead of peonies in the photos that end up on your parents’ mantel. It makes such a difference visually and helps everyone feel more comfortable in front of the camera.

The Heart-Shaped Group Shot: A PSA
Please… I beg you… skip the giant heart-shaped group photo. It might sound adorable in theory, but in reality it takes forever, everyone ends up confused, and the end result looks like a primary school PE formation. If you want one big group shot, we’ll do it the classy way – with everyone together, smiling, looking their best – and then back to the party before anyone even thinks about wandering off to the bar.

Smile Breaks Are Real
Plan for them. Build them in. Your face – and your future wedding album – will thank you.

💡 Photography tip: Want a picture with everyone? Let’s plan it in advance. These big group shots can take longer than you think, and timing is everything.

5. Pinterest Lists & ‘Must-Have’ Shots: A Gentle Rant (With Love)

Let’s talk about that list.

You know the one – the “77 Must-Have Wedding Photos” that every blog seems to regurgitate like it’s a checklist for emotional success. It’s often handed to photographers just before the wedding, sometimes printed out and highlighter in hand. And look, I get it. You want to make sure nothing gets missed. You’ve spent months planning this day. But here’s the truth:

📸 That list? It might actually kill your wedding photos.

Inspiration vs. Instruction

Pinterest boards? LOVE. I use them with my couples all the time. They’re brilliant for figuring out your vibe – whether you’re more “boho barefoot in the meadow” or “champagne in a castle with editorial drama.” It helps me get to know your style, your energy, your preferences.

But – and it’s a big but – using those images as a strict shot list is like asking a musician to play someone else’s setlist at your wedding. The magic gets lost. I want to photograph your story – not recreate someone else’s highlight reel.

Last-Minute Lists = Missed Moments

When I’m glued to a checklist of “must-have shots,” I’m no longer present. I’m no longer looking for the real stuff – the look your partner gives you when you’re not paying attention, the way your dad nervously fiddles with his cufflinks, or the cheeky bridesmaid who’s hiding prosecco in her bouquet.

Instead, I’m ticking boxes: ✔️ bouquet close-up. ✔️ cake. ✔️ shoes (that you’ll probably take off by 4pm).

And while yes, of course I capture all those key details naturally – that’s part of the job – I do it in a way that flows with your day, not interrupts it.

Let’s Talk Early

So here’s my gentle, heartfelt plea: let’s have that conversation early. Not the week of your wedding. Let’s meet, Zoom, WhatsApp – whatever works – and chat about the moments that matter to you.

Tell me if your nan’s flying in from Australia or if your best friend is battling illness but still showing up to support you. Tell me if there’s a handmade veil, a secret handshake, or a dog ring bearer (yes please!). That’s the stuff I want to prioritise.

Because wedding photography isn’t just about aesthetics – it’s about emotion, energy, and storytelling.

Your Wedding, Not a Styled Shoot

You’re not creating content for a wedding blog. You’re living one of the most meaningful days of your life. And my job? To make sure it feels that way in every single image.

👉 If you’re planning your wedding and still looking for someone who’ll focus on your story, not just a Pinterest mood board – we’d love to chat. We’ve photographed hundreds of weddings since 2012 and we’d be honoured to capture yours.

6. Golden Hour = Magic (But Only if You Plan for It)

Let me set the scene.

The sky is soft, the light is golden, and the two of you finally get a quiet moment together – you’re wrapped in that post-ceremony glow, the kind of magic that makes even the wind behave. That, my friend, is golden hour. And it’s wedding photography gold.

But here’s the thing: it doesn’t just happen in your photos because you’ve seen it on Instagram. You’ve got to plan for it – or risk missing it entirely while someone is halfway through a 14-minute toast to your “fierce friendship.”

It’s Not Just About Time — It’s About Timing

Golden hour isn’t a vague vibe. It’s a very specific window of approximately 30 minutes before the sun sets. Want to know exactly when that is on your wedding day? Google “sunset time” for your date and location. Now subtract 30 minutes. Boom – golden hour unlocked.

But hold up: before you schedule it in…

• Are you on a hill? Behind a big old manor house? Under tall trees?
• Is the reception dinner right around then?
• Have you planned speeches during sunset? (This is your sign to rethink that!)

Sunset light is sneaky. One minute it’s perfect, the next it’s behind the trees, and you’re sitting inside politely nodding to Uncle Pete’s story about 1989 while the best light of your life disappears behind a hedge.

Don’t Toast While the Sky Turns Gold

Here’s my advice: check your timeline before the final version gets sent out. If you’re working with a planner or coordinator, let them know that photos around golden hour are a priority for you. Even just 15 minutes for some portraits during this time makes all the difference. It’s worth stepping away – trust me.

You’ll look like movie stars. The sky will do half the work for us. And you’ll get a chance to actually breathe together – a quiet moment in the madness, captured forever.

Blue Hour? Don’t Sleep on That Either

Fancy a bit of drama? Blue hour is that dreamy moment just after sunset. It’s moody, cinematic, and perfect for sparkler exits or a quiet embrace before the dance floor erupts. If that’s more your vibe – let’s chat about squeezing it in.

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👉 We’re all about crafting wedding photos that feel timeless and true to you. We’ll help you build a timeline that’s stress-free and magic-filled.

7. Cake Cutting: Spoiler – There’s No Right Spot

Ah, the cake cutting moment – a sweet tradition that often leaves couples wondering, “Where do we start?” Let’s demystify this delightful ritual with some practical wedding photography tips for couples.

Start with the Bottom Tier

When it’s time to cut the cake, begin with the bottom tier. It’s the most stable and easiest to slice. Place your hands together on the knife – one partner’s hand over the other’s – and make a small incision to create a wedge. This approach ensures a clean cut and a charming photo opportunity.

Feeding Each Other: To Smash or Not to Smash

Decide in advance whether you’ll gently feed each other a bite or go for the playful cake smash. While the latter can be fun, consider your attire and the tone you want to set. Either choice makes for memorable photos, so choose what feels right for you.

Timing Is Everything

Plan the cake cutting at a moment that suits your reception flow. Traditionally, it’s done after dinner and before the first dance, serving as a signal that the formalities are wrapping up. However, some couples opt to cut the cake earlier, allowing the catering team to serve it as dessert. Discuss the timing with your planner or coordinator to ensure it aligns with your schedule.

Communicate with Your Photographer

Inform your photographer about the cake cutting plan so they can be ready to capture the moment. Whether it’s a grand event or a more intimate affair, having your photographer prepared ensures those sweet memories are documented beautifully.

Relax and Enjoy

Remember, this is your celebration. There’s no “correct” way to cut the cake. Embrace the moment, share a laugh, and let your personalities shine through. The best photos come from genuine interactions and joy.

8 First Dance: Don’t Overthink It

You’ve just cut the cake (maybe even flung a slice at each other – bonus points for style), and now all eyes are on you for your first dance. Cue nerves, sweaty palms, and panic googling “how to do a dip without faceplanting.”

Let me stop you right there: you don’t need choreography.

Unless you’re secret Strictly stars, the best first dances are never about the footwork. They’re about the moment. A real, beautiful, giggly, totally-you kind of moment. Whether you’re slow swaying, spinning in circles or laughing your way through an awkward shuffle – it all photographs brilliantly when it’s real.

Trust me, the smiles you give each other when someone steps on the dress or whispers “this is weird, isn’t it?” – that’s what you’ll love looking back on.

✨ Pro wedding photography tip for couples: If it feels awkward, don’t fight it – laugh it off. Those are the gold-dust photos. Honest, joyful, and way more meaningful than a perfectly timed twirl.

And hey, if you do want to dip – we’ll capture that too, but only if it feels like you.

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Want natural, emotion-filled wedding photos that capture you being you? That’s exactly what we do. Drop us a message here and let’s talk about your day.

9. Let’s Talk and Be Friends with Your Photographer (It Shows in the Pics)

Alright, let’s address the delicious, slightly awkward elephant in the room… Do you need to feed your wedding photographer?

Short answer: not always.

Longer (more helpful) answer: If we’re with you all day – from morning fizz to dance floor madness – it really does help to have something warm to eat. We’re not picky, and we promise we won’t starve or sulk if there’s no meal waiting. But having food somewhere nearby and at the right time (usually when guests are eating the main course) means we can stay focused, energised, and not sneak off in search of a service station sandwich.

But honestly, this section isn’t just about food. It’s about friendship. Some of the best photos we’ve ever taken were because we didn’t feel like “the help” – we felt like part of the day.

When guests ask us, “So how do you know the couple?” – and we hear it A LOT – that’s the biggest compliment. Because that comfort and connection? It shows in the photos. It helps us get closer, blend in, and capture all those beautifully candid in-between moments that no one else sees.

💡 Wedding photography tip for couples: Stay in touch with your photographer during the planning. Chat, share your Pinterest boards, talk timelines. By the time the wedding rolls around, we’re not strangers – we’re your unofficial hype crew with cameras.

And that makes all the difference.

Looking for a photographer who feels more like a friend (but also delivers banging photos)? Let’s chat – drop us a message here and let’s make magic happen.

10. Sparklers, Smoke Bombs & Dance Floor Chaos

Let’s talk about the fun stuff – the chaotic stuff – the stuff that makes your wedding feel like the legendary party it’s meant to be. But also… let’s talk safety, timing, and a little common sense (spoken with love).

Sparklers: ✨ Glorious… if used wisely

They look amazing in photos – especially during blue hour when the sky turns that moody, magical shade of twilight. But here’s the thing: only do sparklers if your guests can actually handle them.

If half your crowd is three cocktails deep, handing them fire sticks might be… entertaining for all the wrong reasons.

✅ Tip: Organise someone (a sober-ish someone) to rally the guests and distribute sparklers safely. And make sure they know to hold them away from your dress. We’re going for cinematic – not singed.

Smoke Bombs: 🎨 Artsy, but are they worth it?

I’ve seen them look incredible in photos, yes. I’ve also seen them explode mid-hand, burn dresses, stain suits, and cause mild chaos.

If you must have them, let’s plan it right: set them down on the grass, let them do their colourful thing from a safe distance – and let me capture the magic. Don’t hold them. You’re not in a Coldplay video.

✅ Bonus Tip: Wind direction is everything. Otherwise… smoke in the face, ruined makeup, awkward giggles.

The Dance Floor: 🪩 Stay on it. Trust me.

The number one secret to killer dance floor photos? You. Dancing.

Don’t sneak off after the first dance. Stay, let your hair down (literally), grab your best mate, your auntie, and that friend from work who’s suddenly got rhythm – and just go for it.

Those wild, unfiltered dance shots are always couple faves. They’re sweaty, joyful, ridiculous – and real.

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💡 Wedding photography tip for couples: The best photos come when you forget I’m even there. Whether it’s sparklers, a neon-lit dance floor, or a confetti cannon that goes rogue – embrace it. I’ve got you.

Wedding Photography Tips for Couples: Let It Feel Like You

If you take one thing from this big ol’ blog post, let it be this:

📸 Your wedding is not a performance.
It’s a story – your story. And the best photos? They happen when you let go, laugh too loud, cry if you need to, and dance like no one’s watching (but I totally am, in the best way).

So whether you’re planning a black-tie bash or a barefoot tipi celebration, remember this:

• Don’t stress about your shoes.
• Don’t worry if your hair goes a little wild.
• Don’t overthink the cake, the dance, the group shots.

Instead, think: how do I want to feel?
Because when you feel amazing – you look amazing. It’s not magic, it’s just good vibes and a great photographer (hi, that’s me 👋).

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Ready to ditch the wedding day stress and embrace real, joy-filled memories?

If you’re still looking for a wedding photographer who blends natural, documentary magic with a splash of creativity – you’re in the right place. Since 2012, we’ve been telling love stories just like yours, with warmth, wit, and a bit of dancing thrown in.

✨ Let’s chat and create something unforgettable together ✨