Wedding planning can be overwhelming—between the to-do lists, decisions, and deadlines, it’s easy to lose track of what you actually need. One area where that happens a lot? Photography. So, let me help.

When it comes to your wedding, photos are more than just pretty pictures—they’re how you’ll remember one of the most important seasons of your life. Let’s walk through the practical photoshoots that are most common and then dive into a few fun extras you might want to consider.

The Must-Have Photoshoots

1. The Proposal

Whether it’s a complete surprise or a planned moment, capturing the actual proposal is such a special way to start your story. These photos are full of emotion—pure joy, tears, excitement—and they become an unforgettable part of your love story.

Pro Tip: If you’re planning the proposal, consider hiring a photographer to hide in the background or set up a discreet way to capture the moment. You’ll never regret having these.

2. Engagement Photos

Engagement sessions typically happen early on after you’re engaged. These are your go-to photos for save the dates, wedding announcements, invitations, and of course, for printing and framing!

They’re also a great chance to get comfortable in front of the camera and get to know your photographer. You can dress up or keep it casual—this shoot is all about capturing your connection in a relaxed, authentic way.

3. Wedding Day Coverage

This one’s a given—but worth emphasizing. Your wedding day photos will capture everything: the quiet moments while getting ready, the big “I do,” emotional family interactions, the first dance, and the tiny, beautiful details you worked so hard to plan. Full-day coverage ensures nothing gets missed.

Optional (But Awesome) Extras

These aren’t essential, but they can make your photo gallery even more complete and meaningful.

4. Bridal Session

A bridal session is a photoshoot of just the couple in their wedding attire. It can happen before, during, or after the wedding day, and it’s focused entirely on the two of you—without the tight timeline or distractions of a wedding day.

A lot of couples use this session to do a “first look” before the ceremony, or to shoot in a dream location that isn’t part of the wedding venue. It’s relaxed, beautiful, and gives you extra portraits to cherish.

5. Bridal Shower Photography

Bridal showers are often filled with laughter, love, and all the women who helped raise and support you. Having a photographer capture the sweet decor, candid hugs, and thoughtful gifts can be a meaningful keepsake.

6. Bachelorette Photoshoot

Planning a fun bachelorette weekend with your girls? Some groups love having a mini shoot while all dressed up, whether it’s at a brunch, during a night out, or while relaxing poolside. It’s a fun and lighthearted way to celebrate this chapter of your life.

7. Rehearsal Dinner Photos

The night before the wedding is full of heartfelt toasts, intimate moments with close family and friends, and the quiet anticipation of what’s to come. Having a photographer capture the rehearsal dinner is a great way to preserve those quieter, emotional moments before the big day.

8. Announcement Photos

While engagement photos often double for your announcements, some couples choose to do a separate shoot specifically for their “Save the Dates” or formal invitations. This might be a more styled session, with props or a particular setting that fits your wedding theme.

Every couple is different, and not every shoot will make sense for your timeline or budget. But knowing what’s possible—and what each photoshoot is for—can help you decide what matters most to you.

At the end of the day, your wedding season is more than just one day. It’s a whole chapter of your love story. And the more pieces of it you preserve, the richer those memories will be.

Need help planning your photography timeline? I’m here to walk you through it—let’s make it easy and meaningful.