Your wedding day is one of the most memorable days of your life, and having beautiful photos to look back on is priceless. But many couples realise too late that there’s a lot more to wedding photography than just hiring someone to take pictures. As a wedding photographer, I’ve worked with many couples who have shared insights and tips they wish they’d known before the big day. Here’s a list of the top five things couples often wish they knew about wedding photography — so you can feel prepared, confident, and totally ready for your wedding photos!


1. Photography Timing is Key to Capturing Stunning Photos


Many couples are surprised to learn how much planning goes into the timing of wedding photos. Your photographer isn’t just there to snap photos as things happen; we also work closely with your timeline to make sure we capture all the moments that matter. The best lighting for photos is usually early in the morning or around sunset (hello, golden hour!), so if you want those dreamy, glowing shots, timing is everything.


Pro Tip: Chat with your photographer about your timeline early on, especially if you have specific shots you’re dreaming of. We can help suggest the best times for each part of the day to make sure you’re getting the photos you’ll love.


2. The Importance of a Wedding Shot List (and When to Use It)


One common misconception is that a shot list is just a checklist of every photo to be taken. While it’s important to have a few “must-have” shots — like family photos or special details — it’s also key to give your photographer the freedom to capture spontaneous moments. These are often the most cherished photos: the candid smiles, the glances, the genuine laughter.


Pro Tip: Rather than creating a super-detailed shot list, talk with your photographer about what matters most to you. This allows us to get the essentials while keeping an eye out for those magical moments that happen naturally.


3. How Long Each Part of Your Photo Session Actually Takes


When planning your wedding day, it’s easy to underestimate how much time each part of your photo session will require. For example, getting everyone together for family portraits can take longer than expected, especially if people are scattered. Bridal party photos, first-look photos, and even couple’s portraits each have their own unique timelines.


Pro Tip: When creating your wedding day schedule, plan a little extra time for each photo segment. This helps you stay relaxed, and it ensures you won’t feel rushed when it’s time to capture those beautiful memories.


4. Why Lighting Matters More Than You Might Think


Good lighting can make or break your photos, and many couples don’t realise how much of a difference it makes until they see the results. Natural light — especially during golden hour — is ideal for soft, romantic photos, but lighting conditions change throughout the day. Understanding this helps ensure your photos turn out as beautifully as you envision them.


Pro Tip: Ask your photographer for suggestions about where and when to schedule different parts of your day. We can advise on indoor vs. outdoor shots, optimal timing, and even backup plans in case of weather changes. Working with lighting instead of against it makes for much better photos.


5. It’s Okay to Feel a Little Nervous — Your Photographer Can Help!


Many couples are a bit nervous about being in front of the camera, especially if they don’t typically do photo sessions. But here’s the thing: you don’t need to be a model to have amazing wedding photos! A good wedding photographer knows how to make you feel comfortable, guide you into natural poses, and capture the moments that reflect your true personalities.


Pro Tip: Let your photographer know if you’re feeling camera-shy. We’re here to support you, and we have plenty of tricks to help you relax and enjoy the process. Trust us, the best photos often come from the most genuine moments.


Final Thoughts


There’s so much more to wedding photography than simply taking pictures — it’s about capturing the emotion, the details, and the story of your day. By understanding these five things, you’ll be better prepared to make the most of your photos and, most importantly, enjoy every moment.


If you’re planning your wedding and have questions about photography, feel free to reach out. I’d love to chat about how I can help you capture the memories you’ll cherish for a lifetime!