Your wedding is the beginning of your beautiful new life together. It’s a day filled with love and romance, so you want your wedding photos to capture the unique spark that only you and your partner share. While your photographer will take plenty of wonderful photos throughout the day, you’ll also want them to take some romantic wedding pictures of the two of you that will make you fall in love all over again. The best wedding photos come from a combination of candid shots and natural poses, capturing authentic moments and emotions.
So, how can you achieve these types of shots on your wedding day? As a husband and wife team of professional New York wedding photographers, we’re delighted to answer this question and guide you through the process of how to take the most romantic wedding pictures ever.
A Photographer’s Guide to Romantic Wedding Photos
Find a Photographer That You Love
One key thing to consider when hiring a photographer is finding one with a personality that you love and a portfolio that you could look at for hours. It’s important that you feel comfortable working with them on your wedding day and that you trust them to capture each special moment. A great couple’s photographer captured those intimate and romantic moments that truly reflect the energy and emotion of your special day.
If you already have a photographer in mind, don’t be afraid to let them know that you’re looking for romantic shots. They should be eager to help you realize your vision for your wedding photos, whether that means creating a mood board or simply understanding the kind of vibe you’re going for.
A great photographer will know when to capture candid shots and when to give direction in a way that will make you feel natural and comfortable in front of the lens. By effectively communicating with each other throughout the planning process, you can ensure that you’re on the same page going into the day of your wedding.
Romance is Found in Moments, Not Through Poses
Your love is anything but ordinary so try to avoid typical poses in favor of authentic moments. While posed shots can be beautiful, they often lack the emotion and intimacy of candid photos. Rather than choosing specific poses, you can work with your photographer to create and capture special moments throughout your wedding instead.
Consider discussing various wedding photo ideas and wedding photography ideas with your photographer to ensure you capture all the special moments.
Here are some greats ideas for romantic wedding pictures:
- Take a walk down memory lane by visiting a meaningful location from your past together. Whether it’s a favorite park, city landmark, or a simple bench by the river, these locations will add sentimental value to your photos.

- Sharing a quiet moment together before or after the ceremony. This is an excellent opportunity to have some private time with your partner and really soak in the moment.

- A beautiful dress reveal moment. The first time your partner sees your dress is a moment you’ll want to remember forever.

- Holding hands to quell your nerves as you exchange your vows. This is such a tender moment before you finally say, “I do.”

- Your first kiss as a married couple. The emotions and happiness that you’ll feel in this moment are unparalleled.

- Your first dance in the middle of a crowded reception. As you lock eyes, the people around you seem to disappear, and it’s just the two of you in that moment.

- Any of your romantic stolen glances throughout the night. Whether you’re side-by-side or locking eyes from across the room, these glances will show the love that you share.

The key is to tell your photographer which moments are important to you and then let them take care of the rest. They’re professionals for a reason, so relax and enjoy your wedding day. A great photographer will capture the tender moments of you together without you even realizing it.
Romantic Wedding Pictures Can Still be Fun!
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach to romance, so don’t be afraid to add a few playful photo ideas to your wedding shoot. This can help show your relationship’s fun and lighthearted side while still capturing those beautiful romantic shots too. Genuine laughter between you and your partner is one of the most beautiful moments you can capture, so don’t be afraid to add a touch of humor to your photos. Don’t forget to include some playful shots with your wedding cake, whether it’s a creative angle or a fun moment during the cake cutting.
Take Some Time To Disappear For a Few Minutes
One way to ensure that you get some beautiful, intimate shots is by sneaking away together with your photographer later in the day. This can be as simple as slipping away for a quick walk around the block or finding a quiet spot in a private area or garden for a few minutes.
You can discuss the perfect time and place with your photographer, but we typically recommend waiting until after the speeches and first dance, so you’ve gotten all of your responsibilities out of the way. This will give you some time to relax and enjoy each other’s company. After the speeches and first dance, the wedding reception offers numerous opportunities for capturing intimate and memorable moments.
This private time is the perfect opportunity for you to let your guard down, away from the busy schedule and crowds. Your photographer will capture these genuine moments of real romance before you both head back into the party.
Embrace the Candid Moments Too
While romantic moments are definitely something to strive for, don’t forget that your wedding day is also filled with candid moments that can be just as beautiful. Let your photographer take control of capturing all the little details and emotions that make up your big day. This will give you a well-rounded collection of photos that truly reflect the spirit of your wedding.
In the end, taking beautiful and romantic wedding pictures is all about capturing your unique love story. Don’t be afraid to let your unique personalities shine through in your photos – after all, that’s what makes the two of you so special! By hiring a photographer who understands your vision and personality, you can trust them to capture the moments of your wedding that you’ll remember forever.
Pre-Wedding Preparations
Capturing the Excitement and Anticipation
The moments leading up to your wedding are filled with a unique blend of excitement and anticipation. Capturing these emotions can result in some of the most amazing wedding photos. A good wedding photographer will know how to document the flurry of activity and the heartfelt moments that occur during this time, providing guidance on how to pose and interact naturally.
Getting ready photos are a staple of pre-wedding photography. These shots capture the bride as she gets her hair and makeup done, and the groom as he puts on his suit. These images are not just about the physical preparations but also about the emotional journey. The nervous laughter, the shared glances, and the quiet moments of reflection all contribute to a beautiful narrative.
Engagement photos taken before the wedding can also add a layer of depth to your wedding album. These photos capture the love and commitment you share, setting the stage for the big day. They are a wonderful way to showcase your personalities and the unique bond you have.
Rehearsal dinner photos offer another opportunity to capture the excitement and camaraderie of your wedding party. These images often include candid shots of your families and friends, adding a personal touch to your wedding story. The rehearsal dinner is a time for laughter, toasts, and heartfelt speeches, all of which make for memorable wedding photographs.
By focusing on these pre-wedding moments, your photographer can create a comprehensive and emotionally rich collection of wedding photos that you’ll cherish forever.
The Wedding Ceremony
The wedding ceremony is the heart of your wedding day, where you and your partner exchange vows and commit to a lifetime together. Capturing the essence of this moment is crucial for creating romantic wedding photos that you’ll treasure forever. A skilled wedding photographer will know how to document the key moments and the subtle emotions that make your ceremony unique.
From the moment you walk down the aisle to the exchange of rings, every detail is significant. The look on your partner’s face as they see you for the first time, the tears of joy from your family and friends, and the heartfelt vows you share are all moments that deserve to be captured. These are the images that will transport you back to the emotions of your wedding day every time you look at them.
Your photographer will also focus on the little details that make your ceremony special. The decorations, the wedding dress, the flowers, and even the expressions of your guests all contribute to the overall story of your wedding. By capturing these elements, your wedding photos will provide a complete and vivid picture of your ceremony.
In addition to the traditional shots, don’t forget to include some candid moments. The spontaneous laughter, the stolen glances, and the quiet moments of reflection all add depth and authenticity to your wedding photography. These candid shots often turn out to be some of the most cherished images in your wedding album.
By working closely with your photographer and communicating your vision, you can ensure that your wedding ceremony is beautifully documented, resulting in a collection of romantic wedding photos that truly reflect the love and joy of your special day.
The First Dance
The first dance is one of the most romantic and intimate moments of your wedding day. It’s a time when you and your partner can share a private moment in the midst of the celebration, and capturing this moment is essential for creating unforgettable wedding photos.
As you take to the dance floor, the world around you seems to fade away, leaving just the two of you in a bubble of love and happiness. Your wedding photographer will be there to capture the magic of this moment, from the way you look into each other’s eyes to the gentle sway of your dance. These images will be a beautiful reminder of the connection you share.
To make the most of your first dance photos, consider the lighting and setting. Soft, romantic lighting can enhance the mood and create a dreamy atmosphere. Whether you’re dancing under twinkling fairy lights or in the glow of a spotlight, the right lighting can make your wedding photos truly spectacular.
Don’t be afraid to let your personalities shine through during your first dance. Whether you choose a slow, romantic song or a fun, upbeat tune, the key is to be yourselves and enjoy the moment. Genuine laughter and smiles will make your photos even more special.
Your photographer will also capture the reactions of your guests, adding another layer of emotion to your wedding photos. The smiles, tears, and applause from your loved ones will be a testament to the joy and love that surrounds you on your wedding day.
By embracing the romance and intimacy of your first dance, you can create a collection of wedding photos that beautifully capture this unforgettable moment.
Interested in Booking a Photographer for Your Wedding Day?
Rated one of New York’s Top 5 wedding photographers, Julian Ribinik Photography focuses on capturing the genuine emotions and moments of your special day. Each of our photos tells a story so that you can relive these beautiful memories every time you look at them.
Our goal is to provide you with the best wedding photos that capture the genuine emotions and moments of your special day.
Visit our Wedding Experience page to learn more about our process and what you can expect.
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