Let’s be honest, your relationship is anything but “traditional” so why should your wedding photos be? Non-traditional wedding photos give you a chance to highlight your personality, show off the things that really matter to you, and create memories that you will cherish forever.
As a wedding photographer myself, I absolutely love when my couples want to go the more non-traditional route. Not only does it make the photos more unique, but it often makes them feel more authentic and real.
So, if you think non-traditional wedding photos sound like they are right up your alley, take a look at some of my top tips and ideas for capturing the best ones possible!
What are “Non-Traditional” Photos?
First, let’s talk about what non-traditional photos are. To keep it simple, these are any photos that are the classic “standing with your partner” or “parent helping you get dressed” type of photos.
When you think about wedding photos, you probably have a vision in your mind of what you’ve seen every couple get. And while these photos can be great for some people, other people just want something a bit different and more unique.
So, non-traditional photos are anything outside of those bounds. It can involve different poses, colors, props/momentos, events, etc. Basically anything you can dream of when it comes to your wedding, we can make it happen for your photos!
Tips for Non-Traditional Wedding Photos
Be Yourself and Be Authentic
The number one key to getting the best non-traditional wedding photos is to be yourself and be authentic. At the end of the day, these photos are just for you and your partner and no one else.
This means you don’t have to worry about what other people would think of the photos or what you’re wearing or what you’re doing. Instead, you should focus on doing what feels good to you and what you want to do to remember this day in the best way possible.
This rings true with everything that you do for your wedding. You and your partner’s wants and ideas are the only thing that really matter when it comes to this amazing day so don’t be afraid to lean into whatever vibe you want and do whatever feels authentic to you and your partner’s relationship!
Bring Anything Important to Your or Your Relationship to the Wedding
Another great way to get non-traditional wedding photos is to bring anything important to your relationship to your wedding. Now this doesn’t mean the obvious things like your rings, wedding invitations, save the dates, etc.
Instead, think about the things that mean the most in your relationship; the things you love to do together. For instance, if you bonded over reading, why not incorporate some of your favorite books into your wedding and photos somehow.
These don’t have to be anything over-the-top if you don’t want it to be, but a few small things that are meaningful to you and your relationship can be fun additions to your wedding photos and give them a unique vibe.
Don’t Be Afraid to Try New Things with Your Photographer
We all know how scary it can be to step in front of the camera. Even as a photographer, I totally understand that there are definitely some nerves when you are getting your photos taken, especially if it is the first time you are getting professional photos.
With that being said, don’t be afraid to try new things with your photographer. Odds are, you are going to find some poses and picture ideas that are amazing that you would have never thought to do on your own.
And remember, too, you will only look awkward in photos if you are nervous about them turning out awkwardly. As soon as you take a breath and remember that these photos are just for you, you will feel so much more comfortable.
So, lean into the weird poses, funky angles, and unique lighting. You never know how amazing the photos will turn out and they will be so much fun to take!
**As a side note, a great way to get comfortable in front of the camera before your wedding is by doing an engagement session. This gives you and your partner a chance to get to know your photographer and figure out what you do and don’t like before your big day!
Be Sure to Highlight Any Unique Features of Your Wedding
Finally, if you do have any unique features to your wedding, be sure you are taking some time to highlight them. You obviously have these features in for a reason and they should be remembered.
The bold colors you choose, unique venue, food truck reception, or anything else you can think of are a big part of your wedding and most likely you and your partner’s personality so they should absolutely be a part of your wedding photos.
Non-Traditional Photo Ideas
If you are looking for any inspiration or ideas for how to capture more non-traditional wedding photos, here are a few that you can incorporate into your wedding!
Do Getting Ready Photos Together
While not seeing your partner until you walk down the aisle is not common as it used to be with the rise in popularity of first looks, a great way to be even more non-traditional is to actually get ready with your partner.
Doing this not only gives you more time to spend with each other on your wedding day (which let’s be honest, most people don’t get to do enough on their wedding day), but it also creates the space for some really unique photos.
Bring Your Pet to Your Wedding
Bringing your pet to your wedding also gives you a great opportunity to get some more unique wedding photos. Plus, they will definitely be a hit at your wedding and they’re part of the family too so why shouldn’t they get to enjoy this day.
Your pet can make for some really fun and unique photos at your wedding. Whether it is with you and your partner, or them greeting all of your guests as they come in, there is a joy that comes with being around an animal that just makes every smile and show their authentic self.
You could also go one step further and have your pet as part of your wedding. They could be the ring bearer or even stand up with your wedding party. However you decide to include them, you are sure to get some unique and non-traditional photos from it!
Do a First Look with Your Wedding Parties/Parents
Finally, instead of doing a first look with just your partner (or if you don’t want to do a first look with them), you could instead do a first look with your wedding party, your parents, or anyone else significant in your life.
We have all seen the amazing photos that come out of first looks and they can be just as unique and special with people other than your partner. You could even set up some sort of grand reveal to make the experience more than just walking out of a door.
If you and your partner are getting ready together, you could take it one step further and do a grand reveal to both of your wedding parties at the same time. These moments are ones that you are definitely not going to forget and having them documented is something that you will cherish forever.
Final Thoughts on Non-Traditional Photos at Your Wedding
Hopefully these tips and ideas help to spark some inspiration for you and your partner. What is really important with all of this is remembering that your wedding day is all about you so if there is something that you want to do or want to capture, do it.
Your photographer is there to help make this day as special for you and to capture all of these moments for you to look back on for the rest of your life so take the time to communicate with them and work with them to create a plan and a wedding day that is as unique and non-traditional as you.
If you are still in the process of finding that photographer, I’d love to talk. I pride myself on creating unique, non-traditional, cinematic images that truly represent you and your partner’s story and I would love to do that for yours.
You can learn all about my wedding photography services here or you can get in touch here to chat about your vision for your wedding!
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