Congratulations on your engagement! There are so many things that go into planning an amazing wedding but don’t forget to capture each precious moment. After all, those moments on film will be with you long after your big day. They will last a lifetime and beyond. We at Dallas Party Ride asked some of the top wedding photographers their advice. See what the experts had to say!
Dallas Wedding Photographer Advice
Dallas Wedding Photographer Advice
“What do you think makes the ‘perfect shot’ at a wedding, and how do you capture it?”
Christy Archibald Photography
I have three goals for my couples' wedding photography - for them to have fun at their wedding, to feel comfortable in front of the camera, and to look at their photos at the end of it all and think, "Wow, that looks like US!" For that reason, each couple will have their own "perfect shot" that captures their unique personailities and tells their story. For some, it's a perfectly-posed image with the most amazing golden hour light. For others, it's a messy, honest moment filled with raw emotion as they see one another for the first time, share their first kiss, or celebrate with their loved ones. I'm a hopeless romantic and a storyteller at heart who loves helping couples feel comfortable in front of the camera so we can capture the intimate and create the epic as their day unfolds. Your wedding day is a wonderful story with countless moments of emotional perfection, and it's a joy to capture those moments with you.
Arian Dezfoolian Photography
The perfect shot at a wedding isn't just about technical precision; it's about catching the essence of the moment. Whether it's the look on the couple's faces right after they say 'I do,' the quiet, emotional glances shared, or the laughter from guests—it's these fleeting moments that make a shot truly perfect. I focus on anticipating these emotions and being as unobtrusive as possible so the couple and guests are comfortable enough to be themselves. I think of it as blending into the background, reading the room, and snapping the shot just as that real, raw emotion surfaces. The end result is a set of images that don't just capture the event but tell the story of the day in its most authentic form.
Amir Fard
The "perfect shot" at a wedding combines emotion, lighting, composition, and storytelling:
Emotion: Capture candid, unscripted moments like laughter, tears, and joy. Be discreet and ready for key moments.
Lighting: Use natural light when possible (e.g., golden hour), and diffuse indoor lighting for softer effects.
Composition: Use the rule of thirds and creative framing to balance shots. Include the couple, guests, and venue to add depth.
Connection: Focus on natural interactions between the couple—subtle touches or shared glances make images feel intimate.
Storytelling: Capture key events and details to tell a complete visual story of the day.
Movement: Use a fast shutter speed to freeze action or a slower speed to highlight motion, like dancing or a flowing dress.
Post-Processing: Enhance color and lighting in editing to bring out warmth and vibrancy while keeping a natural feel.
Anticipation and technical finesse lead to those unforgettable, perfect wedding shots.
Majestic Treasures & Memories
In order to capture the perfect shot, I immerse myself in the perspective of the bride and groom. I meticulously focus on capturing all the intricate details that they have painstakingly planned to make their dream day a reality. My goal is to create timeless portraits that will allow them to vividly relive their special day for years to come.
Tara Arseven Photography
Having been in the wedding industry since 2009, I always emphasize one rule: BE YOURSELF! Find a photographer whose style you love and who you genuinely connect with. Trust your instincts and let your photographer work their magic. Personalize your engagement session to reflect your unique story—if you both love baseball, choose your favorite field; if your first date was at a special spot, revisit those memories. Your photos should celebrate who you are. And most importantly, have fun! Enjoy every moment of the experience. Your genuine happiness will shine through in your photos.
Michael Anthony Photography
For me, the perfect shot at a wedding is one that tells a story and captures the emotion of the moment. It's not just about getting a technically flawless image, but about freezing a moment in time that the couple will look back on and relive. It could be the subtle glance between the bride and groom, the tears of joy from family, or the burst of laughter during a speech. To capture it, I focus on being both prepared and adaptable. I stay alert, knowing the key moments I need to anticipate—like the first look, the vows, and the first dance—but I'm also constantly watching for those spontaneous, unscripted moments that make each wedding unique. Having great lighting techniques, understanding composition, and, of course, using the right equipment all come into play, but at the end of the day, it's about blending into the background and allowing the day to unfold naturally while being ready to capture the moment at just the right time.
“What are some tips that every couple should know about to best capture the special events during the engagement through wedding process?”
Morgan + Blake, A Sea of Love
Trust your photographer throughout the entire process. Rely on them for creating the timeline, scouting locations, and capturing pre-wedding sessions. On the wedding day, trust their expertise in photographing your special moments and in post-production work. If you hired them based on their showcased style, maintaining full trust in their capabilities will enhance the final deliverables. This trust not only supports their creative process but also ensures that the results will reflect both the emotional essence and technical quality you expect.
Crystal Clear Photography
My biggest tip is to HAVE FUN! Many brides and grooms get so wrapped up in the stress of planning that they forget to enjoy their wedding day. You've invested a lot of time and effort into making everything perfect, and you've hired amazing vendors you trust to handle the details. On your wedding day, let go of the stress and fully embrace the celebration. Dance with your new spouse, savor every moment, and focus on enjoying the day you've worked so hard to create. Remember, this day is about celebrating your love—so make sure to have the time of your life!
Sherry Sutton Photography
After months (or even years!) of meticulous planning, your wedding day will seem to fly by in an instant. To capture every moment beautifully, hire a professional photographer for as many hours as your budget allows. While friends with smartphones can take snapshots, they might not handle tricky lighting or less-than-ideal backdrops as well as a pro. Choose a photographer whose complete portfolio you admire, not just a handful of standout photos. It’s also essential to connect with them personally, as you’ll spend a lot of time together. Once hired, relax and let your photographer work their magic; your genuine emotions will shine through in the photos.
Photo Concepts
Planning a wedding can be overwhelming with juggling jobs, moving plans, and social events. As your photographer, our goal is to help you set aside these stresses for your engagement and bridal photos. Take a break from the chaos, focus on each other, and truly enjoy the moment. Relax, hug, kiss, and gaze into each other’s eyes while we guide you through posing and find the best settings for stunning photos. Your job is to embrace the fun and cherish these moments. When you’re relaxed and joyful, it will shine through in your photos, creating beautiful and priceless memories.
Kassie Moore Photography, LLC
Find a wedding photographer who is passionate about weddings, their craft, and, most importantly, PEOPLE! Since you'll spend a significant amount of time with your photographer, it's crucial they genuinely care about their clients and their special moments. Look for someone who connects with you and shows enthusiasm for capturing your unique story. A photographer who loves what they do will bring out the best in you and ensure your wedding memories are beautifully preserved.
Maggie Hargrave, Magg Shots Photography
1.Hire Pros: Choose experienced professionals for your wedding to ensure high-quality results and that all special moments are captured. Start planning early to secure your preferred photographer and other vendors, making the process smoother and more relaxed.
2.Get to Know Each Other: Build a relationship with your photographer by following their work on social media and scheduling an engagement session. This helps you understand their style and how they direct you, making your big day more comfortable and natural.
3.Have Fun and Enjoy the Process: Embrace the excitement of the engagement and wedding planning. Focus on the joy of the experience and don’t stress over the small details. Enjoy this special time with each other!
Melissa Claire Photography
It's crucial for couples to connect with their photographer on a personal level, as they’ll be with you throughout your wedding day. Instead of a generic shot list, allow for organic moments to unfold. For both engagement and wedding photos, opt for professional hair and makeup and choose outfits that make you feel confident. Avoid major changes to your appearance at least three weeks before your session. On the wedding day, hire a skilled planner to ensure a solid timeline with flexibility. Consider a "first look" for private, pre-ceremony photos, and encourage an “unplugged” ceremony to keep guests present. Most importantly, stay mindful and fully enjoy your day.
