If you’re wondering how to have the perfect first kiss wedding photo, this is the blog for you! These seven tips will ensure that you get the frame-worthy first kiss you’ve always dreamed of.
While you’re likely to hire a photographer because of their art, creativity, and editing style, you’re also hiring them because you trust that they will have the ability to capture important moments on your wedding day and, arguably, one of the most important shots of the day will be your first kiss. To ensure a great first kiss wedding photo, here are some tips to ensure that you get the frame-worthy first kiss you’ve always dreamed of.
Kiss for longer than you think you should
Trust me, this will give your photographer more time to capture multiple shots of the special moment.
Go in for another kiss
There’s NO rule that says you can only kiss your partner once. If you didn’t like your first kiss, go in for another! Again, this will help give your photographer multiple opportunities to get the shot.
Practice makes perfect
This may sound silly but practicing your first kiss can help alleviate common worries like where your hands are supposed to go, how quick the kiss will be, and can serve as an opportunity to practice an “over the top” kiss if that’s your style.
Tell your wedding party to stay engaged
While it’s not always the case, it’s entirely possible that your first kiss wedding photo will include your wedding party in the shot. You and your partner should advise your wedding party to stay alert and enthusiastic throughout the ceremony, especially during the first kiss. It’d be a bummer to have a stellar first kiss and the people in your wedding party look zoned out.
Keep the kiss simple and be sure to embrace one another
Hold onto your partner’s hands or place your hands on their hips or on their arms, not only will this make the photo look more intimate and emotional, but the touch from your partner will settle your nerves in what could be a very awkward moment.
Let the world fade away
Corny, I know, but I’d really encourage you to slow down and focus on your partner. Look at each other and enjoy the kiss. This is your moment, don’t forget that.
Bonus Tip: Move your officiant
Have a conversation with your officiant before the ceremony and ask if they’d be able/willing to move quickly off to the side after they pronounce you as newlyweds, especially if you’re looking to avoid having a photo where your officiant is staring directly at you and your partner during your first kiss.
If you’d like them to still be a part of the moment (especially if they’re a family member or friend), but you really want to ensure that there’s no one in between you and your partner, having them move to the side with either of your wedding parties is a great idea. Your photographer will be able to better capture their reaction and your moment is secured.
To be on the extra cautious side, delegate a person in your wedding party to either tap or lightly pull the officiant off to the side with them right as your first kiss begins. Believe it or not, your officiant gets nervous too and it’s very common for them to forget, even if they’ve just been told the day of! Give them some grace and help them out with this extra step.
Getting that amazing first-kiss shot is definitely a team effort but when you and your partner, your wedding party, your officiant, and your photographer are all on the same page, you’re bound to get that perfect first kiss wedding photo.
I’d love to be the photographer for your elopement that guarantees that perfect first kiss wedding photo you’ve always hoped and dreamed of. Check out my pricing to learn more about my philosophy, process, and packages. If you’re ready to book now, fill out an inquiry form to get started!
Did this blog inspire you to say “eff it” the big wedding and the traditions that come along with it? Are you ready to take the reins on your special day and plan your own intimate elopement in Virginia? If so, I’d love to be your photographer and capture your special day! Fill out an inquiry form to get started or check out my pricing to learn more about my philosophy, practice, and packages.
Need more inspiration? Check out Christina and PJ’s Mill Mountain Park elopement and Courtney and Nadine’s Duck Pond elopement.
Maybe you have plenty of inspiration, but you need planning resources, here a few blogs I’d recommend to help you get started:
