Wedding Photos: 3 Unique Ways to Capture your Love

June 22, 2020

Written by Wedding Photographer, Rachel Beckwith

Let’s face it, couples don’t always have a lot of time to spend together on their wedding day. Kind of ironic isn’t it? I mean it’s the whole reason for the celebration. Between the hustle and bustle of the day and interacting with your guests and loved ones, it can be hard to focus on each other. I get it. As a photographer who primarily photographs elopements, I’ve learned how to bring the same intimate moments to any wedding day. That’s why I’m sharing 3 unique ways to capture your love to ensure you get the wedding photos you’ve been dreaming of!

One

Plan a“Day After” Wedding Session

With elopements and adventure weddings becoming more and more popular, I see a lot of couples wrestle with their decision about what kind of wedding to have. They want to spend extended time together in a beautiful location, but maybe they also have a large guest count that they can’t imagine not having there to celebrate and dance the night away. Whatever the reason, I’m here to say you can have both.

Doing a photo session in the days after your wedding, not only extends your wedding experience (I mean, who doesn’t want that?) but it gives you a chance to create and capture those adventurous “just us” memories in a totally relaxed setting. Imagine having the time to share some breath-taking views or recreating your first dance in the middle of a forest. It’s also an opportunity to capture a different style that didn’t fit with your wedding. Let him put on those sexy glasses, wear your hair down, have the time of your life-extending your wedding memories.

Two

Have a “First Moment”

“But wait! I’m traditional!” Don’t leave just yet, this one is for you too.

I love first looks, but if you envision the alter being the first time your fiance sees you, then this moment is for you.

Instead of a first look, have a first moment. This is a designated time to have an “OMG we are getting married” moment without seeing each other prior to the bride walking down the aisle. I honestly believe this is the best way to set your intentions for the day. Make the time more special by writing a love letter to each other to read out loud. Pray together. Listen to a special song together. Hold hands around the corner of a building to prevent catching a glimpse of one another.

These are the moments as a photographer that I’m wiping away tears behind my camera. I can not tell you enough how special this time can be and how it sets the tone for the rest of the day. Every couple that chooses to do some form of this walks away immediately more relaxed and ready to go get married!

Three

Plan a Pre-Wedding Date

I absolutely love when couples choose to have a date together before their ceremony either the morning of or night before. Take a hike, sit down for breakfast, go star-gazing, or watch the sunrise on your special day. It doesn’t even have to be in your wedding attire, although it’s a great way to get your photos for the day if I do say so myself. The whole point is to take the time and space to simply be together. Don’t let the busyness of your wedding stifle the chance to slow down and be present.

Having photos of just you and your spouse on, before or after your wedding day will be something you’ll cherish forever! Work with your wedding photographer to determine the moments and types of photos you want to ensure you have the time to capture them. If not, they can help you decide which extra options may help you create the memories you’re after.

If you’ve captured your wedding day in another special way, we’d love to see! Be sure to tag @rockymtnbride on Instagram for a chance to be featured.