Must-Have Photo Moments from DFW’s Best Photographers

They say a picture is worth a thousand words, so these precious wedding photo moments must be worth a million! The day of your wedding can be so hectic and crunched for time that you might look back later and find that you didn’t take all the pictures you had planned, or that your photographer missed a shot they didn’t know was special to you. We talked to the best in the business and these DFW wedding photographers filled us in on all the must-have photo moments to capture on your big day! Read on to avoid getting caught up in wedding chaos and get the most bang for your buck out of your wedding photography with these tips and tricks.

Ideal Engagement

Photography Tip: “I tell both the groom and bride that it’s my job to capture their personalities, so don’t try to be perfect or ‘pose.’ I’ll guide a couple into interacting with each other so that, hopefully, they forget I’m there altogether. Words of affirmation don’t hurt either!” – Catie Ann Photography

Q&A with Catie Ann Photography

Where are your favorite places to shoot engagement sessions?

I love when a couple has a location that means something to them!  However, if they don’t (which is totally normal!), I love photographing engagement sessions at The Dallas Arboretum, White Rock Lake and Trinity Groves.  They each have their own aesthetic, so it totally depends on the vibe a couple is going for! I also really love it when a couple has a destination engagement session they’re dreaming of! I’m always up for that!

What should couples wear for engagement photos?

I always suggest two outfits! I love the juxtaposition of long, flowing dresses in a natural environment, and conversely, short cocktail dresses in a more urban setting. Suits and ties look good always, so I always recommend them for my grooms! I don’t think it’s possible to be too dressed up for the engagement session! That being said, for the second outfit, I suggest a “nice date night” type of outfit. As far as colors go, muted or neutral tones will make the images a little more traditional and timeless. But if you have a killer red dress you’re just dying to wear, rock it!  As long as you’re comfortable, the images are going to be awesome. One thing I always recommend is to get your hair and makeup done professionally. It makes such a huge difference!

How do you get the groom (or bride) comfortable in front of the camera?

I spend the first 10 minutes or so just chatting with my couple for this exact reason. It’s terrifying to have a camera in your face! I tell both the groom and bride that it’s my job to capture their personalities, so don’t try to be perfect or “pose.” I’ll guide a couple into interacting with each other so that, hopefully, they forget I’m there altogether. Words of affirmation don’t hurt either!

What can a couple do to make the shoot uniquely them?

Incorporate items that mean something to them! A lot of times, this is a pet, which I am always on board with! Choosing a location that is important to them helps, also! I had a super fun couple who spent a lot of time in Deep Ellum and going to concerts at the Granada Theatre, so we incorporated those locations for a truly unique session.

How did you achieve capturing this photo moment?

This may sound crazy, but it was kind of an accident! This was taken on a catamaran in Santa Barbara. We were out for the engagement session but hadn’t quite gotten to the right spot yet. I just happened to look over and saw the couple sitting like this, so I just ran with it!  That chemistry is electric, isn’t it?!

Getting Ready

Photography Tip: “There are so many heart-stirring, emotional moments that happen in the early hours of a wedding day that will not be forgotten if captured by your photographer.” – Jen Symes Photography

Q&A with Jen Symes Photography

Why is it important to have a photographer on-site while you’re getting ready?

There are so many heart-stirring, emotional moments that happen in the early hours of a wedding day that will not be forgotten if captured by your photographer. Also, your photographer approaches these moments with an artist’s eye and uses that to tell a compelling story of the bride getting ready and all the important people she chooses to include in this special time of the wedding day.

Who all should be present while getting ready (for photo purposes)?

Of course, all bridesmaids should be together while getting ready as well as VIPs of the bride and groom. VIPs are the heartbeat of the wedding day and your photographer will make sure to orchestrate portraits to have these individuals positioned closest to the bride as they are the most significant to her.  The VIPs can include the mother of the bride, grandmother of the bride, a best friend, a special aunt, etc.

What details should a bride have ready for her photographer to shoot?

Your photographer will ask you to assemble your details ahead of time so that on the morning of your wedding you do not have to scramble to gather all your details. Your photographer will have lots of suggestions for the details to be photographed such as the bride’s dress, veil, jewelry, perfume, shoes, garter, wedding and engagement rings, complete invitation suite including envelopes, heirloom items, bouquet and any other detail that the couple would like to have photographed. It is also important to have the groom’s detail items gathered ahead of time and ready to be photographed as many times the groom does not arrive until later in the morning so that your photographer can photograph all the details before the formal portraits begin.

Any tips for capturing those candid “getting ready” moments?

If you have had an engagement or bridal session with your photographer, they will have given a lot of direction on posing. Recalling these during your getting ready times will help you be camera-ready even when the moments are candid. Good posture, soft smiles and relaxed shoulders will translate into gorgeous candid getting ready shots.

What are your favorite moments during that time before the ceremony?

I have a soft spot for first looks with dad. Something about a father preparing to give his daughter’s hand to another man is so beautiful and emotional.  Also, the little girl comes out in every bride as they sneak up behind dad to reveal their bridal look to him for the first time… the anticipation and desire for her dad to think she is beautiful is delightful to me.

Beautiful Bridals

Photography Tip: “A bridal session is a wonderful chance to capture beautiful portraits that you’ll have forever. The special part of wedding photography is that the images will preserve the legacy of your marriage and will be passed on to future generations. Bridal portraits become a beautiful heirloom that celebrates your time as a bride and your future as a wife!” – Sami Kathryn Photography

Q&A with Sami Kathryn Photography

What should a bride bring to her bridal portrait session?

Bring your dress, veil, shoes, undergarments, touch-up makeup and any jewelry or hairpiece that you’re going to wear on your wedding day. If you’re still undecided about your wedding day look (like which earrings you’ll wear or which veil length you prefer), bridal portraits are a great time to bring multiple options to see what completes your look best and what photographs most beautifully! Bring a bouquet, as well. Your florist will be able to make one that matches what you’ll have at your wedding. Many florists will include a bridal portrait bouquet in their pricing for your wedding, so check with your florist when you’re booking. Be sure to keep the bouquet in water prior to your session! I also recommend bringing one or two people with you, like your mom or a bridesmaid. They’ll be helpful in fluffing your dress, carrying your bouquet and making sure that your veil and hair remain in place and picture-perfect throughout your session!

How can a bride get in the right headspace for her bridal session? 

Bridal portraits are so much fun! It’s such a wonderful time to enjoy being in your dress and soaking up every moment of bridal bliss without the stress of the wedding day. I often find that bridal portraits are the time when it becomes real to my brides that they’re getting married – and that is such a sweet moment to get to celebrate! Remember that you don’t need to know exactly how to pose or model – your photographer will be there to guide you and make sure that you look and feel your absolute best. Gather all of your attire and schedule each element of your bridal portraits well in advance so that on the day of, you can just relax and enjoy!

How far out from the wedding date should a bride schedule her bridal session?

I recommend scheduling bridal portraits for 4-6 weeks prior to your wedding date so that your dress alterations are finished, your photographer has enough time to edit your photos and you can have a canvas or print made to display at your reception. When you’re scheduling your bridal session with your photographer, don’t forget to check in with your florist and your hair and makeup artist to confirm their availability! It’s best to do a trial run with the same team who is doing your wedding day hair and makeup so that you can test out the exact look you’d like for your big day. Many brides opt to do their bridal portraits in a studio space (such as the Lumen Room) or at their wedding venue (many venues will allow you to have your bridal portraits taken on-site as a part of your package), so be sure to confirm location availability as well.

Why should a bride opt for a bridal session apart from the wedding day?

Bridal portraits give you the chance to try out your complete bridal look without the pressure of the wedding – it’s like a dress rehearsal before the big day! You’ll also get a little more practice posing in front of the camera and moving around in your wedding dress. Once you receive your bridal portrait gallery, you can decide on anything you’d like to change for your final wedding day look. A bridal session is a wonderful chance to capture beautiful portraits that you’ll have forever. The special part of wedding photography is that the images will preserve the legacy of your marriage and will be passed on to future generations. Bridal portraits become a beautiful heirloom that celebrates your time as a bride and your future as a wife!

How did you achieve capturing this photo moment? 

For this portrait, I found a neutral backdrop so that the bride would really be the focal point. She had chosen so many beautiful details to complete her wedding day look – from her sparkling earrings to her long veil to the stunning belt on her dress, and I really wanted each of those elements to pop. I had her look to the side just for a moment, and as we were talking about her wedding day, she gave this natural little laugh that was so endearing. Her joy as a bride shines through, and the details she so carefully selected are highlighted and enhance her natural beauty.

First Look

Photography Tip: “Our favorite benefit to having a first look is having more relaxed time for portraits before the wedding so you aren’t rushing pictures afterward to get back to your guests and in many cases having beautiful natural light available beforehand.” – Ben Q. Photography

Q&A with Ben Q. Photography

Should a bride and groom have their first look before the ceremony?

We think having a first look is a very personal choice, and there are advantages and things to consider for any choice you make on your wedding day. It’s a good idea to discuss the decision with your partner, family, friends and even your vendor team to decide what you may be most comfortable with.

What are the benefits of having a first look?

Our favorite benefits to having a first look are having more relaxed time for portraits before the wedding so you aren’t rushing pictures afterward to get back to your guests and in many cases having beautiful natural light available beforehand.

Any suggestions on easing those first look jitters?

It’s okay to get emotional, and sometimes those make for the best first look photos. Once you get to see each other, that’s usually all it takes to calm all nerves!

Tips on making the first look extra special?

We love when couples bring a gift or sweet note to the first look. It’s just an extra little gesture that makes that time even more special.

How did you achieve capturing this photo moment?

We usually hang back a bit while first looks are taking place to give our couples that comfort during this intimate moment. At that moment, everything disappears and it’s just about the couple!

Posed Portraits

Photography Tip: “Before we snap a single photo of our couples, we talk about how they met, what they like to do, their funny relationship quirks and anything else that gets them thinking about and laughing with each other! When couples are focused on one another, the camera isn’t even a second thought.” – Pharris Photos & Philms

Q&A with Pharris Photos & Philms

How can a couple make the most of their portrait session?

Our motto is, “Prepare from head to toe and go on a date the night before!” Book that makeup artist in advance, ask your photographer for a style guide to help you with outfit choices and get your hair done! Make the most of your investment by being fully prepared physically for your session by looking like the best version of yourself. Not only do you want to look your best at your portrait session, but you also want to feel loved and admired by your partner on that day. The best way to feel butterflies so real they show up on camera (alongside your professionally done makeup of course) is to fill up your love tank by spending good ole’ quality time with your soon to be spouse.

At what point in the timeline do you suggest the couple take their portraits?

The best point in the timeline for couples to take their couple portraits is whenever the best light is happening! The alluring “golden hour” occurs during the last hour of sunlight and will give your photos the most dreamy lighting you could hope for! If your wedding is indoors or the timing just doesn’t quite work out for the “golden hour” light, the best time is either during your first look (you’ll get more time this way!) or after the ceremony.

How do you make a groom (or bride) comfortable in front of the camera?

Before we snap a single photo of our couples, we talk about how they met, what they like to do, their funny relationship quirks and anything else that gets them thinking about and laughing with each other! When couples are focused on one another, the camera isn’t even a second thought.

Tips on making posed portraits look natural?

Be prepared. Create a mental catalog of poses you can easily slip into that feels comfortable for you and your partner’s personalities. If you don’t feel comfortable, you don’t look comfortable, trust us! Be talkative. If you’re in your own world of thought trying desperately to look perfect for a photo, you’re not going to look natural with your partner. So get in position, then whisper “sweet nothings” to each other while you’re in a pose. Trust us, you’ll see the magic sweet (or naughty!) whispers can bring to a photo! 

Be self-confident. Nothing can ruin a portrait session quicker than insecurity. On your portrait session day, leave the negative self-talk at home in the very back of your closet and step into your session knowing you are the most gorgeous creature walking the earth. We photographers are lucky to be taking photos of you!

How did you achieve capturing this photo moment?  

To capture this photo moment, we made sure to scout our venue ahead of time to identify the best locations for epic shots. The vineyard offered many gorgeous photo opportunities, but this spot was perfect for the moment we set out to capture. Then, we revisited our location with the couple as the sun set over the vineyard to achieve this grand lighting backdrop. Most importantly, we tried out a few different poses to determine which was most comfortable for our bride and groom and felt the most like them! From there it’s lights, cameras, action, and the rest of the magic happens in editing!

The Ceremony

Photography Tip: “Most wedding ceremonies consist of the same components, but every couple shows a different amount of emotion. You never know when a special moment is going to happen, and you have to be ready for anything. I hardly ever drop my camera from my eye so that I don’t miss any of these moments.” – Sara Boyd Photography

Q&A with Sara Boyd Photography

There are so many sweet moments during a ceremony – how do you know when to shoot?

Most wedding ceremonies consist of the same components, but every couple shows a different amount of emotion. You never know when a special moment is going to happen, and you have to be ready for anything. I hardly ever drop my camera from my eye so that I don’t miss any of these moments. When the couple is in the same position for a while, I shift gears and look to see if their parents are showing any sweet emotions or peer over at their wedding party.

THE KISS: Do you give your couples any instruction on nailing that moment for the image?

Wedding ceremonies are a complete blur for most couples, and I wouldn’t want to fill their brains with one more thing to remember. By the time the ceremony happens, I usually have a good grasp on what kind of kiss I can expect. For my more reserved couples, I know to be ready for a quick 1-2 second peck. For my passionate couples who have no qualms with public displays of affection, I know to be ready for something a little more dramatic. On rare occasions, I am totally shocked by the length of the first kiss, and it’s a fun surprise! But to circle back to your question, no, I don’t give any direction. I want that moment to be one that they have total control over.

Do you have any tips on ceremony setup/design that can help with the photos?

Yes! The main thing to keep in mind is lighting. If your ceremony is outdoors, check sunset time and also what direction the sun sets in relation to your ceremony spot. Also keep in mind that during certain times of day, the light will be coming through the trees and will cast speckled shadows all across your body. This can usually be remedied by moving your altar out from under the trees or just waiting until the sun moves a little farther. I think it is always a good idea to visit your venue at your ceremony time and see what the lighting will look like – the last thing you’d want is to be squinting the entire ceremony because the sun is in your eyes. Another element to keep in mind is having space on the outer edge of your ceremony chairs for me to walk up and down. In outdoor spaces, this isn’t a problem. But for indoor ceremonies, try not to put your chairs flush with the wall. By doing this, I only have the center aisle to shoot down and am limited in the variety of angles I can achieve. I also try to not be a distraction, so by having side aisles, I can utilize those to get closer and not be blocking any guests’ view.

How can a couple get in the right headspace and ease their jitters before the ceremony starts?

Such a great question! Every couple varies in what gives them anxiety leading up to the ceremony. For some, it’s as simple as not tripping down the aisle. For others, it’s not knowing where to look. And for most, it’s the anxiety of having all of your guests staring at you and expecting emotion. The best advice I can give is to focus on each other. Speaking from experience, the entire ceremony will be a blur. It will be over before you know it! If you remember anything from it, my wish would be that it would be the memory of the person you’re about to marry. Also, remember that your wedding is not a competition. You aren’t there to prove anything to anyone. Everyone is there to support you! All of your favorite people are gathered in one place to celebrate your marriage, and that is pretty amazing.

How did you achieve capturing this photo moment?

I’m always on my toes at weddings. Although most wedding days consist of the same components, each couple brings their own story and their own personality to it. I hardly ever put my camera down because I don’t want to miss a moment. I also anticipate certain moments, especially in ceremonies, and start shooting with the expectation that something might happen for a split second. After being a wedding photographer for nearly a decade, there are some moments I’ve come to expect. Those moments are different at every wedding, which is part of the reason why I love giving my couples the space to be themselves without the pressures of performing for the camera.

Candids + Kisses

Photography Tip: “When photographing couples’ portraits, I usually give the couple a series of prompts to guide them through their portrait time! This not only gives them some direction, but using prompts allows them room to make the pose their own, which is key with capturing candid moments!” – Gaby Caskey Photography

Q&A with Gaby Caskey Photography

How do you make a groom (or bride) comfortable in front of the camera?

The biggest way to help your couple be comfortable in front of the camera actually takes place before the wedding day at their engagement session! Engagement sessions are the #1 factor in creating a relationship with your couple that helps them feel comfortable in front of the camera on the wedding day. Since everyone gets the chance to meet each other before the wedding day, you’re able to maximize your portrait time on the day of and get images you truly love!

What times in the day are you watching for those oh-so-sweet photo moments?

Some of my favorite candid moments happen during the vows and toasts! When it comes time for the vows, I love getting up close angles of the couple to show off any emotions they may be feeling!

Suggestions for couples who are uncomfortable kissing or having PDA in front of others?

Being uncomfortable kissing in front of the camera is totally a valid concern to have, so no worries here! If you’re not the biggest fan of PDA, I’d suggest doing an engagement session with your photographer to help find out your comfort levels. Remember, your portraits are meant to showcase your relationship and love for one another, so as long as you’re being yourself, your portraits will turn out great!

How did you achieve capturing this photo moment?

When it came to Perri and Scott’s wedding day photos, I wanted to focus not only on romantic portraits but also ones that showed true happiness for the day! In this image, you can see their pure excitement for the day and it stood out immediately as a favorite!

The Wedding Party

Photography Tip: “I always tell my couples that a month or two before your wedding day, we will come up with a wedding photography timeline and it will include all of the big moments and formal pictures for your big day. This will allow us to make sure we are lining up with the planner’s timeline as well as giving as much guidance and wiggle room we need to make sure that you get all of the photography moments that you want and need.” – Rachel Elaine Photography

Q&A with Rachel Elaine Photography

Shooting with your besties can be so much fun! How do you get the crew to settle down and focus for portraits?

The best advice I can ever give a bride/groom is to trust the process. Leading up to your wedding, you build relationships with your vendors, and we will guide you through the process and make sure that your wedding day runs seamlessly. It is important to hire professionals that do this for a living as we know how to navigate a plethora of situations and will do our best for the day that you will always remember! I am a firm believer that organization through a wedding planner and a photography timeline will help you as the bride/groom know what is going on photography-wise and it will also allow your bridal parties to be in the loop as well.  Building a strong relationship with your photographer and vendors builds trust with one another and that leads to you two to enjoy your day and us to do what we do best, serve you on your big day.

What’s your photo checklist for the bridal party?

The first thing I always tell my couples is to not go to websites that have huge wedding photography checklists. Chances are if you are going to this, your photographer isn’t leading you through the process, and trust has yet to be established. My job as your wedding photographer is to educate you and answer any and all questions you may have. Some people have a ton of pictures and ideas they want, which is great! But I always tell my couples that a month or two before your wedding day, we will come up with a wedding photography timeline, and it will include all of the big moments and formal pictures for your big day. This will allow us to make sure we are lining up with the planner’s timeline as well as giving as much guidance and wiggle room we need to make sure that you get all of the photography moments that you want and need. I am a firm believer that building a relationship of trust and respect with your wedding photographer will allow you to worry less about “the checklist” and more about enjoying the moment so that we as your wedding professionals can create imagery that will stand the test of time and be something that future generations can tangibly enjoy for many lifetimes to come.

How can you make the portrait process go quickly and efficiently?

I am a firm believer that organization through a wedding planner and a photography timeline will help you as the bride/groom know what is going on photography-wise and it will also allow your bridal parties to be in the loop as well. Building a strong relationship with your photographer and vendors builds trust with one another and that leads to you two to enjoy your day and us to do what we do best, serve you on your big day.

First Dance

Photography Tip: “I love for couples to come right into their reception being announced for the first time and head right to the dance floor to kick off the party. If the couple has prepared a dance routine, we do go over any major poses or moments they want captured so we know where to be and we aren’t in front of your guests/family that want to watch.” – Neville Wedding Stories

Q&A with Neville Wedding Stories

When should the first dance(s) be scheduled in the reception?

I love for couples to come right into their reception being announced for the first time and head right to the dance floor to kick off the party. It just seems to flow best, but honestly, I love for couples to mix it up and do things differently though.

Does the couple need to take dancing lessons?

Couples need not feel pressure to have to take lessons beforehand, but it does make for a more entertaining dance for your guests to enjoy.  But if that ain’t you – just sway and stare into one another’s eyes. Always romantic.

Do you give the couple any direction for photos before the first dance?

If the couple has prepared a dance routine, we do go over any major poses or moments they want captured so we know where to be and we aren’t in front of your guests/family that want to watch.

What are your favorite reception moments to capture?

My favorite reception moments to capture would definitely be the parent dances and the private last dance. As a parent now, I totally appreciate the parent first dances and what that moment must be for them to hold and dance with their “baby” one more time before this next season of their grown child’s life. Ughh… I’m tearing up thinking about it. And of course, the private last dance is THE fave. During the first dance, all the eyes are on you two.  For most, it’s a little nerve-wracking to have so many people stare at you while you dance. However, the private last dance, you both are sweaty and exhausted and flying high from the adrenaline of the day. It is such a raw and emotional time for you both. You get to soak it all up in that empty mess of a room in each other’s arms to end the greatest day of your lives so far. Wow, what a way to end a perfect day!

How did you achieve capturing this photo moment?

For our team, usually the DJ hits play or the band begins to play, photo and video document a little bit of the greatness happening on the dance floor and then we sneak out to get ready for your grand finale exit off to start the rest of your lives. So stinking exciting! And yes, I cry every dang time!

Reception Fun

Photography Tip: “Reception photos are a must-have in my book. From your grand entrance and formal dances to the candid moments with your closest family and friends, I promise you won’t regret having your photographer stay to capture all of the fun! These memories were some of my favorites from my own wedding day, so I highly recommend having your photographer stay for at least one hour of dancing.” – Opal & Onyx Photography

Q&A with Opal & Onyx Photography

Why is it important for a photographer to stay on-site for the reception?

Reception photos are a must-have in my book. From your grand entrance and formal dances to the candid moments with your closest family and friends, I promise you won’t regret having your photographer stay to capture all of the fun! These memories were some of my favorites from my own wedding day so I highly recommend having your photographer stay for at least one hour of dancing. This way, you get coverage for all of the reception events (like cake cutting and toasts) and you also get some great shots of you and your spouse tearing up the dance floor as newlyweds.

What are you looking for when shooting those candid reception moments?

Big laughs, emotional moments and crazy dance moves! For party photos, I usually find the liveliest group on the dance floor and start snapping. I will also follow the newlyweds around as they greet guests and exchange hugs. During formal dances and toasts, I love focusing on the parents’ reactions and the couple laughing or crying – sometimes both! I’ve also been known to bust out my own dance moves and join in on the fun, which usually gets a great reaction from wedding guests.

How are you able to capture such beautiful photos during dark receptions with strange lighting?

Artificial lighting such as flash and video lights are absolutely necessary for reception photography in dark venues. I use a mixture of on-camera flash, strategically placed off-camera flash, modifiers and video lighting so that I can control the lighting in any situation. I also love to do a technique called “light-dragging” that gives regular dancing photos a unique pop! By using flash, the ambiance and mood of the reception are enhanced while ensuring my couples get clear, crisp images to enjoy for the rest of their lives.

How can a couple make the most of their photos during the reception?

Make sure you discuss and coordinate your timeline with your photographer beforehand. If you only have limited time with your photographer, choose what reception moments are most important to you. If you have your photographer until the end of the reception, discuss what kind of images you are drawn to and if there are any specific moments or special events you would like captured. Investing in a quality DJ or band and spending time on the dance floor as a couple will encourage your guests to really let loose, and in return, you’ll get those super fun dance floor photos you’ve always dreamed of! I also highly recommend having a private last dance before your grand exit; not only does it make for a great photo op, but it also truly allows you to soak in the amazing evening you just experienced together before you depart.

Are there any props you encourage couples to have on the dance floor?

Two words: GLOW STICKS! I always recommend handing out glow sticks, glow necklaces, LED sticks or anything that flashes and glows out on the dance floor. These items are perfect for light-dragging and add an extra whimsical element to your party. If you’d like to have some photos without glow sticks, ask your coordinator to hand them out later in the evening. Many DJs supply party props as well, so be sure to ask when booking. You can even double up and use the glow sticks for your grand exit if your venue doesn’t allow sparklers!

Grand Exit

Photography Tip: “To us, the best part about the grand exit is that it’s almost always candid. You have so many wonderful reactions from the family and friends of the couple, not to mention the happy bride and groom as well! A pro tip is to always try and direct the couple to pause for a kiss or cheer halfway through their exit. This allows for those extra amazing shots that they otherwise wouldn’t have had while ending their wedding day!” – Outland Weddings

Q&A with Outland Weddings

Best props for the getaway shots?

In my opinion, the best props your guests can have during the grand exit are sparklers. They are always a hit with friends and family, and they have the added bonus of illuminating the couple during those late night exits! Plus, they always look good in photos!

Should the couple change before their getaway?

If they have a reception gown prepared, or something more comfortable, then we say go for it!

How do you nail the exit photos when the lighting is usually gone by then?

If we’re looking at a late send-off with limited lighting, we will bring our own external lights and set them up along both sides of guests to ensure we capture every moment.

Any tips on making the getaway as memorable as the other major moments in a wedding?

Take it slow! Some couples are just ready to leave and nearly sprint to the getaway car. This can make it difficult to capture a good variety of images from such a fun moment. We always suggest our couples to pace themselves and let that moment of celebration sink in, that way, they can enjoy their send off, and we can ensure they have loads of great photos from the moment.

How did you achieve capturing this photo moment?

To us, the best part about the grand exits is that they’re almost always candid. You have so many wonderful reactions from the family and friends of the couple, not to mention the happy bride and groom as well! A pro tip is to always try and direct the couple to pause for a kiss or cheer halfway through their exit. This allows for those extra amazing shots that they otherwise wouldn’t have had while ending their wedding day!

Check out even more incredibly talented North Texas wedding photographers here. Happy planning!