Your wedding day is a big event, filled with lots of emotion. It can sometimes be overwhelming and joyful all at the same time. Since it’s a once-in-a-lifetime event, capturing those emotional moments is important. Whether you’re hiring a professional photographer or using your phone, here are a few tips on capturing the most emotional moments.
Plan for the Unexpected
Weddings don’t always go according to plan, and that’s one part that can add to the emotional moments. Whether it’s a groom’s reaction to seeing his bride for the first time, a kid having a meltdown, or an unexpected romantically show up, be sure to have your camera ready. You can’t anticipate the emotion, so make sure your camera is ready to catch it when it does happen. Keep your camera, or an extra camera, close and always ready to catch the moment.
Keep an eye on the Details
While focusing on capturing the biggest emotional moments, remember to pay close attention to the details. Not only will taking photos of the smaller aspects of the day capture the essence of the day, but it will also allow you to remember all of the unique moments. This includes any sentimental items like family heirlooms or special mementos that were brought in just for the big day.
Encourage the Emotions
As the day unfolds, whether you’re behind the lens or in front of it, remember to allow yourself to experience the emotions. With your camera, pay attention to how the guests interact with each other. If it’s appropriate, enjoy the moment and let the emotion reveal itself in your photos. This could mean capturing the exciting moments, such as the big steps down the aisle, or possibly the quiet moments, such as the father of the bride staring down at her as she wipes a tear from her eye.
Try Different Perspectives
Instead of solely taking photos from the typical angles, try to change up your perspective. Use your long lens to capture the emotions from a distance for more candid pictures, or get down on the ground and get some up-close and personal pictures. Taking pictures from different perspectives can help to both tell the story and add a unique emotion to your photos.
Capture the end of the day
Once the wedding has come to an end, don’t put your camera away. While the emotional highs of the day may have already been captured, the reaction once the day is over, can add an unexpected depth to the photographs. Find the newlyweds and their family and close friends to enjoy those last few moments and capture their emotions as they reminisce on a magical day.
Keep the Moment in Mind
When all is said and done, keep the importance of capturing the moments at the forefront of your mind. Remember to take breaks every now and then to look through your photos, and to consider the emotional impact of the photos you’ve taken.
Whether you hire a professional photographer or you’re taking your own photos, remember to pay attention to the meaning in your photos. Weddings are special days filled with emotion, and the photos you take should reflect that. With that said, go out on your big day and enjoy, and remember you’ll be taking photos of special emotional moments too!