Wedding photography is more than snapping beautiful images—it’s about telling an authentic, unscripted story. As a documentary wedding photographer based in Birmingham, I specialise in capturing natural moments that reflect the genuine emotion of a wedding day. After photographing weddings for over two decades, I’ve learned to anticipate and preserve the moments that matter. So, here’s my guide on “how to take wedding photos” like a pro—capturing each part of the day with authenticity, emotion and timeless storytelling.
Key Moments to Capture: How to Take Wedding Photos Throughout the Day
1. Getting Ready: Focus on Emotion and Excitement
The “getting ready” period bursts with excitement, nerves and emotion—perfect for storytelling. My top tip? Arrive early and take a moment to observe.
Pro tip (technical): Use natural light and avoid harsh flash and cluttered backgrounds. Focus on candid moments such as the bride laughing with bridesmaids or the groom adjusting his tie. Meaningful details—like heirloom jewellery, wedding invites, shoes, perfume bottles, and the makeup process also add narrative depth to the album.
Pro tip (documentary): Don’t interrupt. Just observe. The most meaningful shots come from capturing quiet, unscripted moments such as laughter between siblings, a teary glance in the mirror, or a deep breath.
💡 According to the Wedding Photojournalist Association, candid moments capture the true essence of a couple’s big day.
2. Wedding Ceremony: Take Authentic Wedding Photos Without Being Obtrusive
The ceremony is often emotional and sacred. Above all, your job is to capture it without intrusion.
Pro tip (technical): Use a silent shutter and a zoom lens to stay discreet while capturing key emotional moments: the walk down the aisle, the exchange of rings, the first kiss, and the couple’s expressions.
Pro tip (documentary): Meanwhile, watch for micro-moments—parents reaching for tissues, couples squeezing hands, or stolen glances. These authentic interactions tell a deeper story than posed photos ever could.
💡 Every ceremony is unique, so liaise with the officiant about restrictions.
3. Group Shots: Take Posed Wedding Photos Quickly and Naturally
Though documentary photography is mostly candid, formal group shots are still important.
Pro tip (technical): Use a shot list and a loud, friendly voice, and work with a helper (like a groomsman) to gather the right people to keep things flowing. Also, find even light (like open shade) and keep compositions tidy.
Pro tip (documentary): Once the formal shots are over, keep shooting as people relax and laugh. Some of the best family photos happen after the pose—when everyone thinks you’ve stopped.
💡 Group photos can eat into time, so planning is key.
4. Wedding Portraits: Make Couples Feel Comfortable and Relaxed
The couple portraits are your chance to create calm, artistic moments amidst the chaos. So, look for scenic backdrops or architectural interest, especially in venues across the West Midlands.
Pro tip (technical): Schedule these during golden hour, if possible, for soft, romantic light. Plus, use a longer lens (e.g., 85mm or 135mm) to give the couple space and create a flattering background blur.
Pro tip (documentary): Give the couple something to do—walk together, share a quiet moment, or tell each other a secret. Keep poses natural—give direction, but let the couple interact organically.
5. Wedding Reception: Take Fun and Lively Wedding Photos
The reception is lively, colourful, and full of unscripted moments. Above all, focus on laughter, clinking glasses, and toasts. And don’t just photograph people—capture the mood: fairy lights, centrepieces, signage, and even half-empty glasses and messy tables. They tell part of the story as well.
Pro tip (technical): Use a fast prime lens and bounce flash if lighting is low.
Pro tip (documentary): Don’t just wait for speeches—circulate the room. Document natural laughter, children playing, and the joy of reuniting families. These slices of life are wedding gold.
6. Cake-Cutting: Be Ready and Responsive
The cake-cutting is often brief and unexpected, accompanied by fun, spontaneous reactions from all involved. Therefore, be ready to anticipate the moment.
Pro tip (technical): Get there early, choose your angle (usually facing the couple), and shoot in burst mode to capture every stage of the moment.
Pro tip (documentary): Meanwhile, capture what happens around the cake—guests gathering with phones, kids peeking, and messy cake bites. The atmosphere tells just as much of a story as the action.
💡 Take a close-up of the cake beforehand—especially if it has bespoke design elements or personal toppers.
7. First Dance: Light It Right
There’s romance, nerves, and usually a bit of magic here. Capture both close-ups and wide shots showing the couple surrounded by guests. Also, look for romantic gestures—hand holds, smiles, shared whispers.
Pro tip (technical): Use a fast lens and a soft flash or continuous lighting, and don’t be afraid to move around the dance floor. Position yourself so any DJ lighting hits from behind or the couple’s side—creating a dreamy backlight effect.
Pro tip (documentary): Don’t leave after the first 30 seconds—real emotions often come mid-song or when other guests join in. Stay present and look for movement and connection.
8. Wedding Vendors: Take Behind-the-Scenes Wedding Photos Authentically
Photographing vendors—like the florist arranging flowers or the caterer prepping canapés—adds texture to the final album. In addition, it highlights the teamwork behind the day.
Pro tip (technical): Capture details like florists placing flowers, chefs serving food, and behind-the-scenes action in good light.
Pro tip (documentary): Meanwhile, look for genuine moments: the florist wiping her brow after arranging centrepieces, the chef grinning as plates go out. These glimpses behind the curtain are deeply human.
💡 Share these images with vendors afterwards. It’s a great way to build relationships and receive referrals.
9. Small Details: Capture Story-Driven, Natural Detail Shots
Couples put a lot of thought into the details: flowers, shoes, table settings, favours, signage, and vow books. These personal touches of creativity deserve their spotlight. Therefore, take the time to document these moments thoughtfully.
Pro tip (technical): Use a macro lens and soft depth of field to isolate objects like rings, place cards, and favours.
Pro tip (documentary): Capture details in use—hands tying shoes, guests reading the order of service, or fingers gently touching a locket sewn into a bouquet. These moments give the details meaning.
💡 Details matter—but they shouldn’t look staged.
10. Wedding Dress: More Than Just a Gown
The dress is iconic but also deeply personal. For this reason, capturing it is key.
Pro tip (technical): Photograph it hanging in a beautiful location, laid across a bed, and worn by the bride. Pay attention to movement, texture, and fit.
Pro tip (documentary): Focus on connection: a mum buttoning up the back, a best friend smoothing the hem or adjusting the veil, and the bride touching it lightly while taking a breath. The emotional relationship with the dress is just as important as how it looks.
Final Thoughts
Documentary wedding photography is about storytelling—capturing how the day looked and felt. It’s about being present, unobtrusive, and always ready. From morning nerves to dance floor euphoria, your role is to preserve the day honestly and artfully.
📷 If you’re looking for a Birmingham wedding photographer who can document your day with authenticity, artistry, and over two decades of experience—get in touch. I’d be honoured to capture your love story.
📖 Let’s tell your story your way.
👉 For more tips on how to take wedding photos like a pro, check out my other wedding photography posts.