The Ultimate Groom’s Guide to Wedding Day Photos & Film
- Alkesh Chauhan
- 2 days ago
- 5 min read
When it comes to wedding photography and videography, the spotlight often shines on the bride—and rightly so. But the groom’s story is equally powerful, shaping half of the narrative that makes a wedding film timeless. From the quiet anticipation of getting dressed to the laughter with your groomsmen, and that unforgettable moment you lock eyes with your bride, the groom’s journey deserves to be captured in its fullness.
As a wedding videographer and photographer, I’ve seen how groom-focused shots elevate the storytelling of a wedding film. They provide balance, depth, and a fuller picture of the love story being celebrated. If you’re a groom preparing for your big day, here’s a guide to ensure your wedding photos and film capture your emotions, relationships, and unique presence with cinematic detail.
1. Groom Prep: Setting the Tone for the Day
Your wedding day begins long before you step into the ceremony. Groom prep is often overlooked, but it sets the emotional tone for your story. Think of it as the “opening scene” of your film.
This is the moment where your nerves and excitement start to blend. It’s the quiet time before the whirlwind, the anticipation as you suit up for one of the most important days of your life. From a storytelling perspective, these details help to build tension and expectation—so when you finally meet your bride, the payoff feels that much more powerful.
What to capture:
The suit hanging elegantly before you wear it.
Close-ups of cufflinks, watches, or shoes.
A parent helping with your boutonniere or jacket.
Candid mirror shots as you tie your tie.
These shots are small details, but together, they add richness and layers to your wedding story.
2. Groomsmen Moments: Brotherhood on Display
Your groomsmen aren’t just there to look sharp in photos—they’re your crew, your family, your brothers. Wedding photos and film should highlight that connection because it brings warmth and authenticity to the day.
This is where the lighter, more relaxed side of your story shines. Whether it’s cracking jokes, pouring a round of whiskey, or struggling with ties and pocket squares, these are the moments that reflect who you are when surrounded by your closest friends. They bring out your personality and create the contrast that makes the later emotional moments even more powerful.
What to capture:
Group portraits with both serious and fun poses.
A toast before heading to the ceremony.
Natural laughter and candid moments.
A slow-motion walk as a group (cinematic gold).
3. The First Look: An Intimate Choice
Not every couple chooses to do a first look, but when they do, it’s often one of the most memorable parts of the day. It’s a private pause in an otherwise busy schedule, where you and your bride can see each other, breathe together, and soak in the reality of what’s about to happen.
From a film perspective, the first look is emotional dynamite. The nervous pacing, the whispered words, the tears or laughter—it’s a raw, unscripted moment that reminds you why this day matters. Even if you prefer to stick to tradition, capturing the anticipation leading up to the ceremony can create equally powerful storytelling.
What to capture:
The groom’s face as he sees his bride.
Natural interactions—hugs, kisses, laughter.
Emotional close-ups to highlight authenticity.
4. Ceremony Focus: The Defining Moment
The ceremony is the heart of your wedding, and while the bride’s entrance often steals the show, the groom’s reactions can be just as impactful. This is where your emotions—pride, joy, awe—come alive on camera.
A skilled videographer knows to keep one lens on the bride and another on the groom. That subtle tear, the nervous smile, the deep breath before speaking your vows—these fleeting expressions are the ones you’ll want to look back on in years to come. They reveal the depth of your love and the significance of the promises you’re making.
What to capture:
The groom’s reaction to the bride’s entrance.
Exchanging vows and rings.
Glances, smiles, and hand squeezes during the ceremony.
5. Couple Portraits: Cinematic Storytelling
After the ceremony, the portraits are your chance to step away from the crowd and create timeless, cinematic memories. These aren’t just staged photos—they’re visual poetry that shows the bond between you and your bride.
This part of the day should feel natural, not forced. The best shots often come when you’re simply walking together, whispering something funny, or holding each other as the sun sets. Think of it less as posing and more as capturing who you are when you’re completely in the moment with your partner.
What to capture:
Walking hand in hand.
Golden hour silhouettes.
Whispered laughter and tender moments.
6. Reception: Energy and Celebration
The reception is where the groom often shines—whether it’s giving a heartfelt speech, tearing up the dance floor, or making a memorable grand entrance with your bride. It’s a celebration of love, family, and joy, and your videographer should capture the energy in full.
From a storytelling perspective, reception shots bring closure to the day. They showcase the shift from formal elegance to uninhibited celebration, rounding out your film with laughter, music, and movement.
What to capture:
First dance and parent dances.
Group celebrations with groomsmen and family.
Toasts, speeches, and candid table moments.
Dancing, champagne pops, and fireworks if included.
7. Legacy Moments: Family Above All
One of the most meaningful parts of wedding photography and videography is capturing legacy. Years from now, when you look back on your wedding film, what will matter most are the moments with family—the hugs, the laughter, and the tears.
For the groom, this often means portraits and candid interactions with parents, grandparents, and siblings. These moments might not feel like the “highlight reel” on the day itself, but they become some of the most cherished memories over time.
What to capture:
A heartfelt hug from your mother.
Laughter with your father or siblings.
Generational portraits with grandparents.
Final Thoughts
Being a groom on your wedding day isn’t just about looking sharp in a suit. It’s about embracing the journey, honouring your relationships, and allowing your emotions to be part of the story. From the nerves of the morning prep to the joy of the reception, every chapter of your day deserves to be told in full cinematic detail.
I’ve learned that the groom’s story brings balance and richness to wedding films. It’s not about competing with the bride’s narrative—it’s about completing it. Together, these stories weave a film that reflects love in its truest, most authentic form.
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