How to Get the Best Wedding Photos: Tips for Brides, Grooms, and Wedding Parties

Your wedding day will be one of the most memorable days of your life — a day filled with excitement, love, laughter, and (let’s be honest) a few butterflies too. As photographers, our job at Mogwai Media  is to capture all of those incredible moments so you can relive them forever. But here’s a secret: there are a few little things you and your wedding party can do that make your photos truly shine.

Think of this as your insider guide to making the day great for your photographer — and for your photos.

1. Remember to Breathe and Relax

We know it’s easier said than done, but one of the best things you can do is relax in front of the camera. Don’t worry about where your hands are or whether you’re standing “the right way.” That’s our job!

• Focus on each other, not the camera.

• Laugh, move, and enjoy the moment.

• If nerves creep in, take a deep breath and remember — natural smiles beat forced ones every time.

The most beautiful photos often happen when you forget we’re even there.

2. Delegate a “Photo Wrangler”

Family portraits are important, but they can quickly eat into your timeline if people wander off. Here’s a tip: appoint someone (we like to call them the Photo Wrangler) who knows your family and friends — perhaps an aunty, sibling, or best friend.

Their job? To gather people when it’s time for group shots. This means you don’t have to shout across the garden for Uncle John, and we can keep things flowing smoothly.

3. Think About the Timeline

We’ll help guide you when we plan your schedule, but here are a couple of golden rules:

• Leave buffer time. Hair and makeup often run over, so allow a little breathing space so you’re not stressed before photos even start.

• Golden hour is gold for a reason. If you’d love those dreamy sunset couple portraits, make sure there’s 15–20 minutes set aside in the early evening.

• Plan travel time. If your ceremony and reception are at different venues, remember to factor in journeys.

A well-paced day means you’ll feel more relaxed and your photos will reflect that.

4. Get Ready in the Light

Morning preparations are some of our favourite moments — but they look best with natural light. If possible:

• Choose a room with big windows and space to move around.

• Keep clutter to one side (it helps keep photos clean and focused on you).

• Have your dress, shoes, rings, and details ready so we can capture them without a last-minute rush.

• 
  

5. Couple Portraits: Enjoy the Break

Those 15-30 minutes away from the crowd are more than just a photo session — they’re a chance for the two of you to breathe, connect, and soak up the fact that you’re now married.

We’ll guide you with simple prompts, but it’s less about “posing” and more about capturing your connection. Whisper something silly, take a stroll, or share a quiet moment — these photos often become favourites.

6. Wedding Party Energy

Your bridesmaids, groomsmen, and best friends are there to support you, and that shows in the photos. The best group shots happen when everyone feels relaxed and included.

• Encourage your wedding party to laugh, joke, and cheer you on.

• Mix formal and fun — we’ll get the classic shot for the mantelpiece and then something more playful for the album.

• Let personalities shine — not every shot has to be perfectly posed.

7. Don’t Sweat the Weather

British weather (Welsh especially) is unpredictable (to put it politely), but don’t panic if the forecast looks mixed. We always bring backup plans, and sometimes the most atmospheric, romantic photos come from unexpected conditions. Umbrellas, moody skies, or even a quick dash into the rain can make for incredible memories.

8. Trust Your Photographer

At Mogwai Media Weddings, we’ve photographed weddings of all shapes, sizes, and styles. We’ll guide you through the day so you never feel awkward or lost. The more you trust us, the more relaxed you’ll feel — and the more your photos will reflect the real joy of the day.

Final Thoughts

Your wedding photography isn’t just about how the day looks, but how it feels. By relaxing, planning a few small details, and letting moments unfold naturally, you’ll set the stage for timeless, heartfelt images.

Remember:

• Relax and enjoy yourselves.

• Give someone the role of “photo wrangler.”

• Make time for golden hour portraits.

• Trust us to capture the story of your day.

At the end of it all, your photos will be a reflection of your love, your people, and your joy — and we’ll be there to make sure every smile, laugh, and tear is captured forever.