Must Have Photos for Micro Weddings

Must Have Photos for Micro Weddings | Skyler Maire Photography

If you’re newer to documenting micro weddings and/or elopements, or maybe are considering adding this new service to your photography business, this blog post is for you! When I first started documenting micro weddings and elopements, my biggest worry was always that I was going to miss something. I wasn’t familiar with all the must-have moments that needed to be captured throughout the day. Of course, I learned. 🙂 And over time, it became easier and easier to the point where I don’t even need to think about it anymore! It’s just second nature. So today, I’m going to outline all the must have photos for micro weddings to ensure you never miss an important shot!

#1. First look (if applicable)

Not every couple wants to do a first look, and this is something you should ask them about ahead of time. If they do, be sure to help them with their timeline. For micro weddings, I only need about 10-15 minutes for the first look.

Every now and then, I get a bride who wants to incorporate a first look with her father as well, which is always super cute! If that’s the case, just give yourself an extra 10 minutes. I usually like to do the first look with Dad first, then the first look with their partner.

Regardless of whether your couple is doing a first look or not, another key moment to capture is the expression on the partner’s face as they wait at the front of the aisle for their loved one to walk down. There might be tears, a look of awe, or just a huge grin! 🙂 To capture this, I position myself at the very front of the aisle (yes, right in front of the guests). I first photograph the partner walking down the aisle, then quickly pivot to capture the reaction of the waiting partner before shifting to the side to make way for them to greet each other.

#2. Vow exchange

This might seem obvious because it usually happens during the wedding ceremony. However, many micro weddings take place at a courthouse or City Hall, where couples might not get to exchange personal vows. Instead, they do the repeat-after-me ones. While I document the entire ceremony, I often get couples who want to exchange their own private vows either before or after the ceremony. This is a beautiful and intimate moment to capture, so if your couple is having a civil ceremony and may not get to exchange their own vows, suggest a private vow exchange! It adds another personal touch to their day.

#3. Ring exchange

Another one that might seem obvious, but it’s crucial to be ready for this part of the ceremony when it happens. If I can, I like to get a close-up of their hands exchanging the rings. This moment often includes some laughter or tears, so be ready to document it!

#4. Detail photo of the rings

I always get a close up of the rings after the ceremony, either on their hands or in another creative way. It’s completely up to you if you want to do a flat lay for this, but I find that doesn’t typically flow with my timeline. So instead, I like to capture the details of their wedding rings in a more unique way.

#5. Family and or group photos

If your couple has guests present at their micro wedding, the group images are usually some of the most important ones to them! I typically do these immediately following the ceremony because everyone is already present. And guess what? I’ve actually put together a complete wedding day family photo checklist -and it’s COMPLETELY FREE for you! Download your wedding day family photo checklist now!

#6. Portraits of both partners individually

You’ll want to document photos of both partners, individually. I always start wide and move in. Capture images of them looking at you, away from you, adjusting their tie, or playing with their dress. It’s also a good idea to get close ups of the bouquet, any special jewelry, and the boutonniere. And remember to get at least one image of the back of the bride’s dress.

#7. Couples portraits

Of course couples portraits are some of the most important must have photos for micro weddings because they highlight the love between the newlyweds! I like to start with at least one smiley photo where the couple is looking at me, and then I’ll move onto more fun and creative prompts and poses. If you struggle with posing couples, I’ve got yet another sweet gift for you. Download my Couples Posing Guide completely free!

#8. Candid family moments

Always. Have. Your. Camera. Ready!

Candid family moments happen throughout the entire experience, but some key moments to be ready for include:

• Right when guests arrive and are greeting one another.
• Photos of the guests during the ceremony.
• Immediately after the ceremony when guests are giving congratulatory hugs/kisses!
• Moments in between family and group portraits.

There you have it! My top recommended must have photos for micro weddings. I hope you found this article helpful! One last tip I have for you – especially if you’re worried about forgetting one of these key moments – is to create a Note on your phone listing each of these shots. Then take a screenshot of that note and set it as your phone background. That way, you can quickly reference it throughout the wedding day to ensure you’re capturing all the most important moments. 🙂

Have any questions? Drop them in the comments section below!

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