Your wedding day is one of the most meaningful, joy-filled days of your life, and it goes by in the blink of an eye. As a Virginia wedding photographer with a timeless, documentary style, I’ve learned that the most cherished images aren’t always the posed ones- they’re the in-between moments, the laughter, the tears, and the quiet joy that make your day truly yours.

After photographing weddings across Virginia for the past four years, here are the top 10 wedding photos every couple should have; the ones that will bring you right back to how it felt.

1. The Getting Ready Moments

There’s something so authentic about the anticipation before the ceremony. From your mom buttoning your dress to your bridesmaids laughing over mimosas, these candid moments set the tone for the day and tell the story behind the excitement.

2. The Details

Every wedding is built from a collection of personal details; your bouquet, rings, shoes, and invitation suite. Capturing these elements helps preserve the personality and effort you put into your day. They’re the perfect storytelling pieces that make your gallery feel complete.

3. The First Look (or First Touch)

Whether you choose a private first look or share a quiet hand-holding moment before walking down the aisle, this is often one of the most emotional moments of the day. It’s a reminder of the love and connection at the heart of it all.

4. Walking Down the Aisle

That first look at each other when the ceremony begins is unforgettable. It’s one of those once-in-a-lifetime moments filled with pure emotion, and it deserves to be captured beautifully.

5. The “We’re Married!” Moment

The kiss, the cheers, the joy on your faces- your “just married” moment is full of happiness and energy. These photos radiate celebration and love, and they’ll be some of your favorites forever.

6. Family Portraits

As someone from a large family, I know how important these images are. Even though they can feel a little hectic, family portraits are the photos that grow more valuable over time, generations from now, you’ll be so thankful you have them.

7. Candid Reactions

The best wedding photos aren’t always planned. They’re the laughs, the happy tears, and the dance floor moments no one saw coming. I focus on capturing these raw, real emotions so your gallery feels alive and full of personality.

8. The Couple Portraits

This is your moment to slow down together. I blend classic, timeless portraits with documentary-style candids that show your connection as it truly is- genuine, romantic, and full of joy.

9. The First Dance

Whether it’s a choreographed routine or a simple sway, your first dance captures a special kind of intimacy. With the lights low and music soft, it’s one of those memories that instantly transports you back every time you look at it.

10. The Exit

Your grand exit is the perfect ending sparklers, confetti, bubbles, or a classic getaway car. It’s the final burst of energy that wraps up your celebration, and it makes for the perfect last photo of your wedding story.

Your wedding photos aren’t just about remembering what your day looked like; they’re about remembering how it felt. My goal as a Virginia wedding photographer is to capture every emotional, joyful, and meaningful moment so that you can relive your love story again and again.

If you’re planning a wedding in Virginia and looking for a photographer who values connection, emotion, and storytelling, I’d love to capture your day and help you preserve these memories forever!