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A Definitive List- The Must Have Shots For Hampshire Weddings.

Updated: Feb 8

I'll preface this by saying that any professional wedding photographer will have enough experience and foresight to know what shots they need to nail on you wedding day and you shouldn't need to tell them what's important. However, planners and over planners like myself LOVE a list and I have created this with the intention of allowing you to review a list of every possible image I can think of to look at what's important to capture on your wedding day and decide if it's worth the investment of choosing a photographer who offers a 'second photographer' option.


My second photographer option is included in my full-day luxury package and they attend for 6 hours of your day, enough time to capture all the angles and prep :) Hampshire wedding photographer Cat Brant discusses this topic in more detail below.


Don't want to read a blog? I've made this blog into a 'numbers' sheet download that you can edit for your own wedding right here:




Should I book a second photographer?

Second photographers are a fairly inexpensive option for couples who want to ensure every moment is captured and eternalised for example, groom prep and wedding reception drinks while you are having your couples shoot. And the ceremony from all the angles.


The generally accepted method of doing this is to speak to your chosen main photographer and they will source a second photographer as part of your package. I personally have a network of trusted and tried second photographers who I work well with to ensure smooth running on your big day and your photographer will likely have the same. This method ensures also that you receive one cohesive album that is edited by your main photographer.


What photos might I need on my hampshire wedding engagement shoot?

Engagement shoots are in my mind multi purposed, you get a feel for how the photographer works and what you'll receive from them, get to have some fun and see what it's going to be like in front of the camera and you might use these photos for your wedding website or invites!


I spend roughly 25% of my time on engagement shoots giving my couples a masterclass in posing together, where to put feet and hands, where to stand, how to kiss and how to dip, we discuss what makes a great pose and what makes a bad one and from that foundation of understanding your wedding day photos will be elevated and you'll feel a lot more relaxed.


You don't need a lot for your engagement shoot because like I say, it's more about the experience than the results but I think these are the three most important ones:


  • The ring shot

  • The full length shot outside your venue (if you're having a shoot there!)

  • The playful shots

A couple go to hold hands in a field, black and white

What photos do I need on my Hampshire wedding day?

Bridal prep

  • Dress

  • Details like your rings invites etc in a flat lay

  • Shoes

  • Bridesmaids getting ready

  • A shot of bridesmaids and bride in dressing gowns

  • Hair and makeup being finished

  • Getting the dress on

  • Mum/Bridesmaid helping

  • Shoes being put on

  • Final details like earrings etc

  • Flowers before they come out of the water!

  • First look with bridesmaids

  • First look with parent(s)


Groom Prep

  • Suit

  • Details like watches, cufflinks etc

  • Shoes

  • Groomsmen


First Look

A generally American concept that is becoming much more popular here is a first look between bride and groom ahead of the ceremony. This is a set up shot and an opportunity to catch real emotion away from the eyes of your guests, exchange gifts and break down any nervous about the isle walk! You might also want to use this time to get your couples photos before the ceremony so that you can enjoy the reception drinks with your friends and family. Many Hampshire wedding venues have lovely dedicated spaces for first looks.

  • A shot of bride walking towards groom

  • A shot of groom seeing bride for the first time

  • First embrace

  • Exchange of gifts

  • Opening gifts


Venue Photo Must Haves!

  • An establishing shot of the venue

  • A shot of the decor

  • Any details like chairs, arch etc

  • A shot of the reception space before guests arrive



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Ceremony Photo Must Haves!

  • Guests talking

  • Bridal party entering

  • Bride entering

  • Groom reaction

  • Hand off to bride shot

  • Groom looking at the bride

  • Shots from the back- mid (Bride and Groom at alter)

  • Wide setting shot of whole wedding from the back

  • Guests & emotion in the bridal party

  • Bride looking at groom

  • Any special events such as music, readings etc

  • Shot of the first kiss

  • Walk out recessional

  • Last kiss at the bottom of the aisle


Exit

  • Confetti toss

  • Kiss in confetti toss


Reception Drinks

  • Receiving Line hugs

  • Details of canapés and drinks

  • Guests talking


Couple Photos

Talk to your photographer about how important these images are- will you print one for your wall, what do you imagine that will be? Do you need one for a thank you card? How long do you want to spend of your day doing these? Are sunset pictures important?

  • The classic full length

  • A romantic dip

  • Back of the dress

  • Walking away & towards

  • In front of the venue

  • Hands and rings

  • Checking out the reception space together


Bride in a white floral dress and groom in a gray suit embrace under green trees. The groom kisses the bride's forehead, creating a joyful mood.


Group Photos

I talk about this all the time- choose too many combinations and your day can quickly get sucked up by endless group photos. Some are so important as a physical record for generations to come. I can't tell you the number of times I've looked at my parents wedding photos and said oh my goodness is that x person or wow, that's what they looked like because now, they're gone.


  • Family of grooms side

  • Parents of brides side

  • Grandparents

  • Family of both sides individually or together

  • Friends of both sides

  • Bridal party

  • Children

  • The whole wedding guest group


Also have a think about if you want your group photos to be formal, relaxed, posed etc. Posed photos with guests on steps, levels, chairs etc require more time and likely a second photographer to help orchestrate.


Meal

  • Plates of food

  • Table decor

  • Speeches

  • Reactions from guests

  • Toasts

  • Intimate moments at a top table

Evening Reception

  • Guests arriving

  • Suppliers- DJ, singers etc

  • Venue shots again

  • Candid moments

  • Shot of the cake

  • Cutting the cake

  • Eating a piece

  • First dance

  • First dance with Dad/Mum

  • Flower Toss

  • Dance floor shots

  • Evening food shots


A couple stand in white in front of Sandford Springs Golf Course

I hope you have enjoyed this list and found it useful. Let me know if I've missed anything in the comments below!


Love Cat x






Comments

hi! I'm cat and i am a full time wedding photographer
(and a little bit of a photography geek!)
 
I started taking photos as a teenager, my Dad was a wedding photographer and I would often help him. In 2021 I left my corporate job with a dream and hope that I could make photography a full time job. Since then I have been pouring my heart and soul into this business and have been honoured to be chosen as wedding photographer for so many lovely couples as well as being a portrait and event photographer.  
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I TAKE CLASSIC, TIMELESS, DOCUMENTARY STYLE PHOTOGRAPHS WITH MINIMAL INTRUSION

 

But I will step in and offer gentle guidance when it's right to do so, I have learned over the years to read the room, anticipate the next move, hold space when needed and offer support when I can.

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aRE YOU LOOKING FOR A WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER?
When choosing a wedding photographer, consider their style, experience, portfolio, and reviews from previous clients. It's also important to discuss pricing, availability, and any specific requests you may have.
 
Don't forget to meet with them in person to ensure you have good chemistry and feel comfortable with their approach.
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Once you have narrowed down your list of potential wedding photographers, it's a good idea to ask them some key questions to help you make your final decision.

 

Here are a few questions to consider:

  • What is your photography style? Do you prefer a more traditional approach or a more candid, documentary style?

  • Do you have experience with weddings of a similar size and style to mine?

  • Can I see a full gallery of a recent wedding you photographed? This will give you a better sense of their consistency and quality of work.

  • Do you have backup equipment in case something goes wrong on the day of the wedding?

  • How do you handle difficult lighting situations (e.g. low light, harsh sunlight, indoor vs. outdoor)? This will help you gauge their technical expertise.

  • What is included in your packages? Are there any additional fees I should be aware of (e.g. travel, overtime)?

  • How long will it take to receive my photos after the wedding? Will they be edited and retouched?

  • Can you accommodate any special requests I have (e.g. specific shots, family portraits)?

  • How do you ensure that you capture all of the important moments on the day of the wedding?

​

By asking these questions and having an open and honest conversation with your wedding photographer, you can ensure that you find the right fit for your big day.

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