5 Must-Have Shots for Every Wedding Album
Ensure your wedding album includes these timeless photos, from the first kiss to the dance floor fun.
Your wedding day is one of the most memorable moments of your life, and your album should reflect every bit of the magic. As someone who’s had the privilege of capturing countless weddings across New Zealand, I know just how important it is to get the right shots. While every couple has their own style and must-haves, there are a few timeless images that belong in every wedding album—no matter your theme, venue, or vibe.
Here are five essential wedding photos you won’t want to miss.
1. The First Look – That Magical Moment
Whether you opt for a private first look before the ceremony or the traditional aisle reveal, the moment you see each other for the first time on your wedding day is nothing short of electric.
That raw emotion—nerves, excitement, love—all captured in a single frame. It’s not just for you; it’s something future generations will cherish too. I always make sure I’m in the right place at the right time to freeze that moment forever. If you’re on the fence about doing a first look, it’s definitely worth considering for both the experience and the photo.
Pro tip: Choose a quiet, scenic spot for your first look if you’re doing it before the ceremony. Somewhere with natural light works wonders!
2. The Ceremony Kiss – Sealed with Love
It’s the moment everyone’s been waiting for—the kiss that seals the deal. This is one of the most iconic shots in any wedding album, and for good reason. It’s the culmination of your vows, your promises, and your journey to this point.
Timing is everything, and I always suggest holding the kiss just a second or two longer so we can capture multiple angles and expressions. You’ll thank yourself later when you’re choosing your favourite version for the wall.
Bonus: A wide shot with your guests cheering in the background adds an incredible energy to this frame.
3. The Candid Laughter – The Real You
Some of the best photos aren’t posed—they’re the moments in between. A cheeky glance during speeches, a burst of laughter on the lawn, or the flower girl sneaking an extra cupcake.
These candid images tell the real story of your day. They show personality, emotion, and the genuine joy of the celebration. I always keep my camera ready to catch those unscripted moments that couples often say are their absolute favourites.
Don’t worry about the camera—just be yourselves and enjoy the day. I’ll handle the rest.
4. The Portraits – You Two, Just Married
Your couple portraits are where you get to slow down, breathe, and take it all in. Whether we’re wandering through golden fields in rural Canterbury or strolling along the Wellington waterfront, this is your time to connect and celebrate each other.
I love carving out a bit of time just before sunset for these shots—the golden hour light is unbeatable. You’ll get soft, glowing images that feel romantic and timeless. These are the photos that often end up framed on the wall or shared with loved ones.
Bring comfy shoes if we’re heading off the beaten track—trust me, it’s worth it.
5. The Dance Floor Vibes – Let Loose!
When the formalities are over and the heels come off, that’s when the party begins. The dance floor is where the real fun happens—grandparents busting moves, mates singing at the top of their lungs, and that unforgettable first dance.
Capturing the energy and spontaneity of the dance floor is one of my favourite parts of the night. The lighting, the movement, the emotion—it all adds up to a dynamic set of images that bring your album to life.
Want to take it up a notch? Add some confetti, sparklers or even a saxophonist for that extra wow factor.
These are the moments that make a wedding album truly unforgettable. It’s not just about capturing what happened—it’s about telling your story in a way that brings it all rushing back, every time you flip through the pages. From the quiet, intimate glances to the wild dance floor antics, each photo plays its part in celebrating your love story.
