Wedding Photography Tips: First Looks, Family Formals & Candid Shots

Introduction: More Than Just Posed Photos

If you’re deep in the wedding planning process, you’ve probably heard about “first looks,” seen endless Pinterest boards of family formals, and maybe wondered how photographers catch those blink-and-you’ll-miss-it candid moments. As a wedding photographer, I’m here to tell you: all of these moments matter. They’re not just boxes to check—they’re the heartbeat of your wedding album and the memories you’ll cherish forever.

But here’s the secret no one tells you: the best photos happen not because everyone is perfectly posed, but because you feel comfortable, present, and surrounded by love. That’s where a little thoughtful prep (and a photographer who truly cares!) makes all the difference.

Let’s walk through how to make the most of your first look, family formals, and candid moments—so every part of your day feels easy, authentic, and absolutely unforgettable.

The First Look: Why It’s More Than a Trend

What Is a First Look?

A “first look” is an intimate moment where you and your partner see each other before the ceremony. It’s usually just the two of you (and your photographer, quietly in the background), away from the crowd and the noise. Some couples love the tradition of seeing each other for the first time at the altar, while others crave the privacy and emotional connection of a first look.

Why Consider a First Look?

• It Calms the Nerves:
  I’ve watched countless couples go from jittery to joyful in a single glance. Seeing each other before the ceremony can melt away nerves and let you truly soak in the moment.
• You Get Time Together:
  Your wedding day flies by. A first look gives you a few precious minutes, just the two of you, to breathe, hug, and remember why you’re here.
• More Photos, Less Rush:
  With a first look, we can capture beautiful portraits, wedding party photos, and even some family shots before the ceremony. That means more time to celebrate with your guests later!
• Real, Unfiltered Emotion:
  Some of my favorite photos are from first looks—tears, laughter, whispered “I love you’s.” It’s pure magic.

How to Make Your First Look Special

• Pick a Private Spot:
  Whether it’s a quiet garden, a sunlit hallway, or even the place you first met, choose somewhere that feels meaningful and peaceful.
• Build It Into Your Timeline:
  Allow at least 20-30 minutes for your first look. This gives you time to savor the moment, exchange letters or gifts, and take some relaxed portraits.
• Let Your Photographer Guide You:
  I’ll help coordinate the setup, make sure the lighting is perfect, and give you space to be yourselves. No awkward posing—just real emotion.

Real Story:

One of my couples, Anna and Jake, were both nervous wrecks before their first look. The second they saw each other, they burst out laughing and hugged so tight I thought they’d never let go. That joy carried them through the rest of the day, and their photos are a testament to the power of a private moment.

Family Formals: Making Tradition Feel Personal

Why Family Photos Matter

Family formals are more than a tradition—they’re a chance to honor the people who’ve supported you, cheered you on, and helped you become who you are. These photos might feel a little “posed,” but trust me, they’re the ones your parents and grandparents will frame, and the ones you’ll treasure for decades.

How to Make Family Formals Easy (and Enjoyable!)

1. Make a List—But Keep It Simple

Before your wedding, I’ll ask you for a list of family groupings you’d like photographed. This keeps things organized and ensures no one gets left out. My advice? Focus on the combinations that matter most—parents, siblings, grandparents, and any special relationships.

2. Communicate the Plan

Let your family know when and where formals will take place. If we’re doing them before the ceremony (after a first look), make sure everyone knows to be dressed and ready. If they’re after, remind everyone to stay close by.

3. Assign a “Family Wrangler”

Pick a friend or family member who knows both sides of the family to help gather people for photos. This one small step keeps things moving and helps us stay on schedule.

4. Keep It Light

Family photos don’t have to be stiff or formal. I’ll guide everyone into position, crack a few jokes, and encourage real smiles. If you want a silly shot or a group hug, just say the word!

Real Story:

At one wedding, the bride’s little nephew was not having it—until his uncle started making silly faces behind my back. Suddenly, everyone was laughing, and the resulting photo is pure joy. Sometimes, the best moments happen when you least expect them.

Candid Magic: Capturing the Heart of Your Day

Why Candid Photos Matter

While posed portraits are beautiful, it’s the candid moments—the ones you don’t even notice happening—that tell the truest story. Your best friend wiping away a tear during your vows. Your grandma busting a move on the dance floor. The look on your partner’s face when you walk down the aisle. These are the images that make you feel your wedding all over again.

How to Encourage Candid Moments

1. Be Present

The more you can let go of stress and just be in the moment, the more natural and authentic your photos will be. Trust your photographer (that’s me!) to capture everything—planned and unplanned.

2. Trust Your Team

You’ve chosen your vendors for a reason. Let us handle the logistics so you can focus on the people and the feelings that matter most.

3. Don’t Worry About Perfection

Worried about your hair, your dress, or your dance moves? Don’t be! The best photos are the ones where you’re laughing, crying, and living your day to the fullest.

4. Give Yourself Room

Build a little buffer into your timeline so you’re not rushing from one thing to the next. That extra ten minutes can mean the difference between a hurried photo and a moment you’ll never forget.

FAQ: Making the Most of Every Moment

Q: Do we have to do a first look?
A: Absolutely not! Your day should reflect you. If you love the idea of seeing each other at the altar, that’s beautiful. I’ll help you build a timeline that works for your vision.

Q: How long do family formals take?
A: With a good list and a little organization, we can usually finish family formals in 20-30 minutes. The more prepared everyone is, the faster (and more fun) it will be!

Q: How do you capture candid moments?
A: I’m always watching for laughter, hugs, happy tears, and little glances. My approach is a blend of gentle direction and letting real life unfold. The less you worry about the camera, the more magic I can capture.

Final Thoughts: Your Story, Your Way

Your wedding day is a tapestry of moments—big and small, planned and spontaneous. The first look, the formal portraits, the wild dance floor antics—they all matter. My job is to help you feel comfortable, cared for, and free to be yourselves, so your photos reflect the real you.

If you have questions, want to talk through your timeline, or just need a sounding board for your ideas, I’m always here. Let’s make every moment count, together.

Ready to capture your story, your way? Reach out and let’s create something unforgettable!

Stay tuned for the final blog in this series: “Rain, Shine, or Anything in Between: Prepping for the Unexpected on Your Wedding Day.”